Differentiated Instruction in Spelling.

Even with computer spell check, it is important for students to learn to spell words correctly. Teachers should make the spelling curriculum meaningful for students by maintaining their attention, showing them the purpose and value of learning spelling, and providing necessary tools for correct spelling. Several spelling instruction plans may provide for individual differences in spelling achievement. What is important in differentiated instruction is assisting each student to achieve as much as possible through teaching methods or philosophies such as individual spelling lists, methods/learning activities, contextualized situations, experimentalism and problem solving, or realism and mastery. Other differentiated instruction methods might include: (1) a contract system; (2) an enrichment center; (3) a learning centers approach; (4) individualized spelling; (5) multiple series of spelling texts; and (6) computer technology. (EF)