1. How to support your child in the TLC Spelling program

2. Markings
Not used in Kindergarten – focus is on sight words (most common words in English language)
Kindergarten Spelling begins in January
Begin in Grade 1 (November)
Markings are taught and practiced
Homework is reinforcement of learning at school
Review markings of Spelling words with child each night
Spelling words should be correctly spelled in homework and writing
Actual Spelling words need to be correct

3. Additional Reinforcement Needed
For each word:
Focus on the Spelling first, then the markings
Ask your child for any known markings
First look for vowels
Look for double graphemes
Look for silent “e”
Look for which sound of the grapheme it is making?
Review the rules and why markings are made

4. Extension For new words and new rules:
Practice writing each word 5x and have child repeat why markings are made
As rules become familiar, and application of markings becomes more fluid:
Write a sentence that contains the new spelling word.
OR Write a paragraph that contains all of the new spelling words.

5. Supporting your child When looking over returned Spelling tests:
For words you especially focused on, or words that challenged them, find letters or graphemes or markings that are correct and praise them
Have child do corrections, but be sure understanding is there
When decoding words in their Spelling, have them apply their graphemes
Encourage your child to write down a letter for every sound they hear
Give hints or clues (less as confidence grows)
IE: One letter grapheme that makes 3 sounds – oh, I know, its “a” and the third sound

6. Now, BREATHE
It is not your job to memorize the graphemes or their rules
It is not necessary for you to become a grapheme ninja – your child will master with consistent support
It is important for your child to do the markings as indicated in each week’s homework package, even if you are not familiar with the rules
A shorter time EACH night, is more helpful than a marathon session on one night