Classroom Implications

Encouraging young children to engage in writing using temporary (invented) spelling is another excellent way to foster phonemic awareness. As children learn to use letters to represent words in writing, they naturally need to think about the sounds that compose the words.

Writing activities in which children have the opportunity to experiment with and manipulate letters to make words and messages. Invented spelling is a powerful means of leading students to internalize phonemic awareness and the alphabetic principle.

Children need opportunities to write and relate their writing to spelling and reading.  As children learn to read and write words, they become aware of how these words are spelled. Increasing children's awareness of spelling patterns hastens their progress in both reading and writing. In the early grades, spelling instruction must be coordinated with the program of reading instruction.

Children write using their knowledge of printed letters and the sounds they represent. Because knowledge of letter-sound patterns contributes to reading success, spelling instruction is coordinated with the programs of reading instruction. Knowledge of and practice in correct spellings also contributes to more effective writing.

Children's written work is displayed in the halls and in the classrooms.