When children are younger, they base the spelling of the word on how it sounds. However, when they are between the ages of nine and 12, usually around the end of primary school, they should be moving from a transitional stage to a more independent one.
Here are a few milestones to look out for:
Understand sounds
They should be able to understand that sounds can be represented in different ways and be familiar with complex vowels.
Visual understanding
By the time your little one has reached the age of 12, they should know how words look and be able to use this knowledge to spell. They should also be aware of homonyms – words that sound the same but are spelt differently.
Understand and use prefixes and suffixes
Your little one should also be able to understand inflectional endings, s, es, ing and consonant doubling, changing the y to i. They should also have been introduced to compound words and the more complex prefixes and suffixes.
Understand the origin of the word’s spelling
By this stage, children should have certain knowledge of the origin of certain spellings. For example, they should know that the letter t in French is silent in words like ballet and valet.
Be able to use apostrophes
By now they should understand and be able to use apostrophes to indicate possession.
Explore the relationship between spelling and meaning
The older kid should now be aware that words with related meanings have similar spelling. For example: wise and wisdom, nation and national or magic and magician.
Don’t worry if they are still using inventive spelling at this age. The words they invent are usually those that they are still learning or have never seen before. Take comfort in the fact that a confident spelling will usually take more risks.
Bear in mind that no child is the same and they all progress at different stages. However, if you do have any concerns always talk to your youngster’s teacher.
