Spelling and Vocabulary at OLST
The National Curriculum for spelling, vocabulary, grammar and punctuation gives an overview of the specific features that are included in teaching the programmes of study.Opportunities for teachers to enhance pupils’ vocabulary arise naturally from their reading and writing. As vocabulary increases, teachers show pupils how to understand the relationships between words, how to understand nuances in meaning, and how to develop their understanding of, and ability to use, figurative language.
OLST has dedicated Vocabulary Walls in each classroom where children and staff can gather vocabulary discovered in texts, songs and every day life. When a new word is brought to the board, the class explore it's meaning and opportunities to use these words are created across the curriculum.
Throughout EYFS and KS1 children follow the Read, Write, Inc Phonics scheme which develops their understanding of and ability to build and decode words. Alongside this, children will also learn how to spell High Frequency/Common Exception words as detailed in the programmes of study.
At KS2, children are taught year group specific spelling patterns and rules. They also have statutory common exception words to learn. This is delivered in short daily bursts where spelling patterns are introduced, explored, used and internalised. Technical vocabulary is also a key feature of classroom practice across the school.
Where children require additional support with phonics and spelling, interventions are planned and delivered as appropriate.