Word Aware: Developing vocabulary and spelling

Words form the bedrock of speaking, listening, reading and writing. This course pays attention to the ways in which we can develop word knowledge for reading and writing in the context of rich language experiences.

Delegates will explore the best ways to teach vocabulary for reading and for writing, and the most effective approaches to teaching spelling. This interactive course will include practical workshops demonstrating games and strategies with a clear rationale.

Areas of focus

What research tells us about the acquisition of vocabulary and spelling
Language-rich experience – not words in isolation
Why a blended approach to vocabulary instruction is needed
- teaching individual words
- morphology
- etymology
- building word consciousness
Spelling: the skills underpinning good spelling
Best strategies to develop spelling competence

Key stage suitability

Primary years

Course length

A one-day course covers general principles. For more sustained development we recommend two follow-up half-day sessions.

Resources