Word sorting is an extremely effective technique for focusing students' attention on the spelling patterns--and on variations among those spelling patterns--within the English spelling system. Understanding the similarities and differences among words will help students inspect words successfully, internalize the spelling system, and develop into independent spellers. Hands-on Word Sort Cards are provided for specific Spell-It- Write! units in Grades 2 through 6. the Hands-on Word Sort Cards for each selected unit include: 1) one card for each word on the Pattern Words list in the student edition; 2) one card for each word on the Red List in More Words for Hungry Word Hunters 3) one card for each word on the Blue List in More Words for Hungry Word Hunters 4) one card for each guide word (or Master Word). The spelling patterns that are the focus of each word sort are underlined on each guide word card. A '?' card is also included for each unit that includes 'words that don't fit' established spelling patterns. 5) one Answer Card for each unit. Each Hand-on Word Sort Card is identified by grade level and unit number for your convenience. After the cards are separated, you may wish to store the cards for each unit in a separate envelope. While the Answer Card provides one way to sort the words in that unit, students and teachers are encouraged to experiment with sorting the words in other ways.
