ABSTRACT
Spelling ability is, like any skill, easier for some learners to acquire than others. Some individuals will absorb spelling patterns just through the reading and writing of words to create spelling memories which are easily and accurately recalled and applied. Others have to work harder to identify which spelling patterns relate to which sounds; and which words are attached to which spellings. Spelling skills are commonly used as benchmarks of success and achievement within educational settings. Spelling detective activities present investigative challenges which learners can explore on their own, in pairs, or with their spelling tutors. They typically provide the opportunity to introduce a spelling rule, riddle or remedy by exploring the nature of the topic in hand. Learning Application Activities over-learn and reinforce lessons in the use of morphology; phonology; graphemic representations; irregular patterns and expressions; and, most importantly, the use of words through an understanding of their meaning and context.
