A Study Of The Vocabulary Used And The Spelling Errors Made In Written Compositions Of The Sixth-Grade Children In The Hebert Elementary School Of Beaumont, Texas

A historical study of the books and methods used in spelling instruction shows marked changes from Colonial times to the present. In the latter part of the eighteenth and the beginning of the nineteenth centuries, spelling was used to introduce children to reading. They learned the alphabet, syllables, and words in order to read religious material. Some early books published were a combination of speller and reader, such as the New England Primer and the American Spelling Book. At present, spelling takes its place as a partner of writing, serving as a tool for written expression. The spelling books have not reached the degree of attractiveness of some of the reading, arithmetic, and language texts. The subject matter of modern spellers is scientifically compiled and arranged. These questions have been asked over and over again, Is correct spelling important? What spelling ability does the average individual need to fill his place in society effectively? The ability to spell words commonly used in written expression is expected of all people. Misspelling in correspondence may even mean loss of business, Inability to secure a position or it may even affect the entire course of one\u27s future. Automatic ability in spelling frees the individual phase of writing and enables him to give more consideration to the thought involved. The form and style of written composition may even improve because of improvement in spelling