How to simply analyze spelling errors to plan instruction for reading, writing, and spelling.
So, why would I want to analyze my students’ spelling errors? 
 
Looking at the way my students are spelling gives me a great deal of insight into their thinking and understanding with spelling and reading skills.

 

The best part is, you can use this spelling analysis form with any grade level and any list of spelling words.  

I begin by looking at the spelling patterns my kiddos should have learned in the prior grade level and test my students at the beginning of the school year.  You may even want to visit with some of your teacher friends in the prior grade level to help you create the spelling list.  

I NEVER take a grade on this type of assessment because it is only used to gather information and data. I use it to plan spelling instruction for my whole class and also with individual students.


If I have kiddos that are not successful with each of the previous grade-level spelling patterns….and I always do…I might do this type of assessment a bit more frequently.  For the rest of my students, I will do another Spelling Analysis at the middle of the year and then again at the end of the year.  Doing it this frequently helped me plan as a teacher, but you may want to do it much less often. 


I have also used this form with students that seem to be continually struggling with spelling patterns throughout the year. The tool helps to guide my interventions with those students. Below is the individual Spelling Analysis form. 


 

 

Here are the super simple steps to ANALYZING SPELLING ERRORS:
  1. Write the correctly spelled word / actual word in the first column.  
  2. After giving the spelling test, write the student’s response into the second column.
  3. Look closely.  What errors do you see the student make?

Here are some possible examples of spelling errors that you might see:

  • Incorrect vowels (long? short?)
  • Leaving off the final e in a long vowel word (ex: cap/cape)
  • Leaving out the vowel, only using consonants
  • Using only one consonant instead of double consonants
  • Confusing g and j sounds
  • Confusing c and k sounds
 
 

Use the spelling errors / results to plan your instruction in whole group, small group, and guided spelling practice.  I also use the data for working with students in RTI and intervention groups.

 
Here is the form I like to use to look at all my students at one time.  
 
 
 
 

I would LOVE to hear how you plan your spelling instruction or how you work with those struggling spellers.
 
Best wishes! 

Jen

Let me know what you think HERE.