How to support your child in the TLC Spelling program

Markings Not used in Kindergarten – focus is on sight words (most common words in English language) Kindergarten Spelling begins in January Begin in Grade 1 (November) Markings are taught and practiced Homework is reinforcement of learning at school Review markings of Spelling words with child each night Spelling words should be correctly spelled in homework and writing Actual Spelling words need to be correct

Additional Reinforcement Needed For each word: Focus on the Spelling first, then the markings Ask your child for any known markings First look for vowels Look for double graphemes Look for silent “e” Look for which sound of the grapheme it is making? Review the rules and why markings are made

Extension For new words and new rules: Practice writing each word 5x and have child repeat why markings are made As rules become familiar, and application of markings becomes more fluid: Write a sentence that contains the new spelling word. OR Write a paragraph that contains all of the new spelling words.

Supporting your child When looking over returned Spelling tests: For words you especially focused on, or words that challenged them, find letters or graphemes or markings that are correct and praise them Have child do corrections, but be sure understanding is there When decoding words in their Spelling, have them apply their graphemes Encourage your child to write down a letter for every sound they hear Give hints or clues (less as confidence grows) IE: One letter grapheme that makes 3 sounds – oh, I know, its “a” and the third sound

Now, BREATHE It is not your job to memorize the graphemes or their rules It is not necessary for you to become a grapheme ninja – your child will master with consistent support It is important for your child to do the markings as indicated in each week’s homework package, even if you are not familiar with the rules A shorter time EACH night, is more helpful than a marathon session on one night