Spelling and Handwriting

Course description: Spelling

Unlock the logic behind English spelling in this engaging, evidence-based class designed for upper elementary and lower middle school students. English spelling isn't random—it's built on patterns of sounds (phonology) and meaningful word parts (morphology), including powerful Latin and Greek roots that form a majority of academic vocabulary.

Students will develop strong phonological awareness by segmenting words into sounds, blending phonemes, and exploring syllable types to tackle tricky pronunciations. We'll then dive into morphology, learning how prefixes, suffixes, bases, and especially Latin and Greek roots (like "struct" meaning "build" or "photo" meaning "light") remain consistent in spelling even when sounds shift—explaining why words like "structure" and "destruction" share the same root spelling.

This structured literacy approach empowers students to become independent spellers and word detectives, turning challenging words into familiar friends. Ideal for building foundational skills that support success across all subjects!

Through explicit instruction, interactive activities, word investigations, and games participants will:

• Build phonemic awareness for accurate sound-to-letter mapping

• Master common roots and affixes to decode, spell, and understand new words

• Connect etymology (word origins) to spelling conventions for lasting retention

• Improve vocabulary, reading fluency, and confidence in writing

Course Description: Handwriting:

Handwriting will be taught using The Good and The Beautiful Handwriting texts which teach cursive closest to the Zaner Bloser style, straight up and down instead of slanted. Depending upon individual needs, students may continue working on print formation, begin learning cursive, or memorize and cement the formation of cursive letters while refining print handwriting.