Spelling or Word Work

Encoding is the process of taking a spoken word, segmenting it into smaller parts, and representing those parts in written form. It is the reverse process of decoding and a component of spelling. Spelling is often used synonymously with encoding, but spelling refers to a broader linguistic process. While some words can be spelled using encoding alone, others require writers to apply spelling conventions unique to each written language system.

Phoneme-grapheme mapping encourages students to use a simple and consistent method to encode words. A comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to use this method to spell by sound.

Explore essential terms in the Science of Reading. This glossary breaks down key terms into simple, clear explanations.

Children often struggle to read words automatically and some rely on inefficient cues that hinder fluent reading. Dr. Linnea Ehri explains orthographic mapping, outlines the four developmental phases of word reading, and highlights research on vocabulary instruction and teacher knowledge of the structure of African American English (AAE).

Spelling offers insight into how students think about language. Dr. Bruce Rosow illustrates how understanding a word’s meaning, structure, and sound reveals its origin and use, showing how spelling can guide effective, diagnostic literacy instruction.