Correlation with Phonics
The best possible preparation for teaching to spell is thoughtful, intelligent drill in phonics. As all modern methods of teaching reading give systematic phonic drills, and thus most children have had some preparation before spelling is begun, the phonetic lists in this book will be found to be easy. Not only will they be easy, if intelligently taught, but they will serve the double purpose of teaching the children to spell intelligently and independently, and of enabling them to recognize new words. In other words, the right kind of phonetic teaching may be made of great educative value, teaching at the same time both spelling and reading. Thoughtful consideration will show the teacher that a large proportion of words are strictly phonetic, i.e. “spell themselves.” In learning the spelling of one word, if the phonetic elements have been properly and thoroughly taught, the child is learning the spelling of all words containing the same phonograms. It is, therefore, of the utmost importance in the primary grades that a phonetic sense be developed and utilized.
The lists used in this book are presented first in the text as short lists, each of which precedes the use of any word of the series in dictation. On [page 61] will be found more complete lists for supplementary drill. These are numbered in the same order and are similar to those found on the Aldine Phonic Chart, which the teacher will find to be of great assistance. Drills on these complete series may well be given whenever a review or additional lesson is possible. The pupil may study from his book; quick drills may be given from the Phonic Chart; then a selected list may be dictated by the teacher. Too much intelligent drill on these phonic series cannot be given.