Date of Award
6-1-1988
Document Type
Practicum
Degree Name
Master of Science
Department
Center for the Advancement of Education
Advisor
Dr. Joan Horn
Keywords
achievement, attitudinal changes, cognitive-based approach, curriculum, eclectic spelling strategies, elementary education, informal spelling Inventory, instruction, parochial, phonetic instruction, phonics-based approach, private, purposeful writing, rule generalizations, sixth grade, spelling achievement, spelling instructions, spelling performance, students, target group
Abstract
The poor spelling performance of a group of sixth graders was addressed by utilizing the Informal Spelling Inventory suggested by Mann and Suiter (1974). This criterion – referenced test determined that nine members of the sixth grade class scored well below grade level expectations in spelling. A cognitive – based approach and eclectic spelling strategies were implemented with the target group in order to improve their spelling achievement. The results indicated a cognitive-based approach through phonetic instruction and rule generalizations increased levels of achievement in the target group. Students within the group demonstrated positive attitudinal changes. Purposeful writing became one of the group’s favorite activities. It was concluded that a phonics-based approach, rule generalizations, and purposeful writing assignments could increase spelling achievement.