Why Use Spelling Games for Kids?
Spelling games for kids can be an important part of your language arts program. Since spelling is a crucial skill for elementary students to acquire, you'll agree that we need to find as many ways as possible to teach and reinforce it.
The normal weekly routine in spelling class goes something like this: Take a pretest on the new spelling words, write the new words 10 times each, write the definition for each word, use each word in a sentence, take a post test, and so on. If that gets a bit dull for you as the teacher, think how much more boring it must be for your students.
Adding spelling games for kids just two or three times a month is a great way to add some pizzazz to your spelling program AND to motivate your students. We all know that some students are just great spellers. Others struggle with spelling and don't seem to care if they improve or note. And others can learn and will improve when given enough practice and motivation.
Most spelling games require students to work in teams and to spell words in front of other students. What kids don't want to shine and succeed in front of their peers? By planning spelling games from time to time, many students will want to do well to help their team and to be seen as successful in front of others.
With all that said, here are some important tips for using spelling games for kids in your classroom:
- Always announce when you're going to play spelling games, at least a few days in advance. This builds excitement and motivation to learn.
- Tell your students which words you'll be using. After all, the goal is not to trick your kids, but to teach them to spell and to give them lots of great practice learning important words.
- Use different kinds of spelling games. Spelling bees are great, but there are lots of other fun formats, too.
- Use games in which students can compete individually, in pairs and in teams. Generally speaking, the more students in a group, the less each person participates. When kids compete in smaller team units, they'll get more practice.
- Keep track of the games that work best for you. Write down which games you've used with which spelling units, the strengths of the games, and ways that games can be improved. Don't be afraid to make up your own games or variations.
- Share your best game ideas with your colleagues. Share ideas for your students to play spelling games with family members at home.
- Remember the ultimate goal of all your spelling games for kids is to reinforce spelling skills.
Check out some of Ann Fisher's spelling games for kids. They're all simple, fun and free.
