Voices from the Middle - Volume 9, Issue 3, 2002

Jay Richards insists that “when students discover the organizational patterns behind the spelling, they learn to see that the language is more principled and less random than they thought. When they learn how our language works, students can takeout much of the guesswork of spelling.” Read more to find out how to make your spelling lessons more engaging.

Gail Thibodeau discusses how the “Spelling Unforgivables” were eventually incorporated into the language arts curriculum in order to emphasize the importance of spelling instruction.

Read about this group of teacher-researchers inquiry-based study to understand the spelling dilemmas of their young students.

Veteran educator Howard Miller shares a set of strategies that can propel middle school writers (and "inventive" spellers) into the role of being responsible and strategic in this Voices from the Middle article.

Discusses how the technology of alphabetic writing is the first technology to “blame” for students’ spelling problems. Considers the use of computers and spell checkers in dealing with spelling issues. Lists 10 Web sites that address spelling reform; research on spelling; and spelling lists, tests, tips, and games.

Presents an annotated list of 44 young adult books that represent the wide range of young adult literature available for teens. Represents a variety of genres from poetry to science fiction/fantasy to historical fiction and story collections. Lists the 2002 winners for six major awards.

Presents annotations of 12 novels for young adults. Encourages teachers to give their students books to read because it often makes a difference.