How to Help your Child Study for Spelling Tests

Create a study routine

Set a consistent time each day to review words (10–15 minutes works well).

Use a quiet, distraction-free space for study time.

Spelling: create a routine

Use multi-sensory methods

Engage multiple senses to help retention:

See it: Read the word.

Say it: Say the word out loud.

Spell it aloud: Letter by letter.

Write it: On paper or in sand/shaving cream.

Air write it: Use a finger to write it in the air.

Spelling: many methods

Break words into chunks

Divide longer words into syllables or phonics patterns.

For example, "re-mark-a-ble"

For younger students sound out each letter.

For example, b-a-g: bag.

Spelling: break words into chunks

Make it fun

Games like hangman, memory match, or word searches.

Spelling bee-style quiz: Take turns quizzing each other.

Spelling: make it fun

Practice in short bursts

Cramming doesn’t work well. Spread out practice across several days.

Example schedule:

Monday: Read and copy words.

Tuesday: Practice writing from memory.

Wednesday: Quiz and correct.

Thursday: Word games and review.

Friday: Final practice test.

Spelling: practice in short bursts

Write words in sentences

Have your child use each word in a sentence. This boosts their understanding and context.

Spelling: words in sentences

Write practice tests

Give a mock spelling test midweek and again before the real one.

Review any mistakes together.

Spelling: practice tests

Praise progress

Celebrate effort, not just results.

Even small improvements deserve positive reinforcement.

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