Making Big Words: Multilevel, Hands-On Spelling and Phonics Activities

I use this book regulary with my second languge students. They enjoy moving around the letters to make words and their spelling has gotten much better.

Even in the third grade, students find difficulties decoding multisyllabic words. Not only does this book make it easier for them, but it exposes them to spelling patterns and sounds that help reading fun. I live by it, and have held workshops for fellow colleagues. They have found it to be beneficial, too.

I teach Title 1 disadvantaged reading students, most are learning English as a second language. I did a word a day with my 6th, 7th , and 8th graders. The making words lessons allowed me to introduce vocabulary, point out spelling patterns, talk about vowel variances, and talk about how our words are made up. I asked them to write the words as well as manipulate the letters. Sometimes, I asked them to group the words if there were several words with the same spelling pattern.

This is a great how-to book for one specific phonics & spelling teaching strategy. It has made a big difference in my third graders ability to sound out unknown words and incorporate their knowledge of spelling patterns. Making Words is geared for K-3rd. Making Big Words is for 3rd thru 5th graders. It's a hands-on approach and it is very adaptable. You can do it just as suggested or adjust it to your students' particular need. It includes hundreds of lessons. It can also be used in coordination with thematic units that you may be using in your room. A great resource. Worth every penny. I just love Patricia Cunningham!