How can students improve their spelling skills?

Improving spelling skills involves engaging with language in meaningful ways, and studying homophones while reading often is particularly effective. Homophones—words that sound the same but have different meanings and spellings—help students understand the nuances of language and the importance of spelling in conveying meaning. For instance, understanding the difference between "their," "there," and "they're" enhances both spelling and comprehension.

Additionally, reading frequently exposes students to proper spelling in context, helping reinforce their learning. As they encounter words in various contexts, they develop a stronger visual memory and understanding of word structures, which contributes to their overall proficiency in spelling.

In contrast, avoiding reading and disregarding phonetic sounds would hinder progress in spelling, as these activities are essential for developing a strong reading foundation and recognizing patterns in how words are constructed. Taking spelling tests weekly can help reinforce knowledge but should be combined with other strategies like engaging with texts and studying language features to be truly effective.