ABSTRACT
The writing tools of spelling, grammar, and handwriting are a key to successfully communicating message. Just as a hammer, a tape measure, and a level are the tools of a carpenter, spelling, grammar, and handwriting are the tools of a writer. A carpenter takes wood and crafts a bowl or a rocking chair with his tools; he creates an item of functionality and beauty. In much the same way, a writer takes words and crafts a poem or a letter with her tools; she too creates an item of functionality and beauty. Understanding the value of spelling errors represents one small but significant part of knowledge about spelling instruction. To further develop this knowledge let’s look deeper at exactly how spelling works in the mind, and the strong connections between elements of spelling and elements of reading. Sophisticated thinking skills and processes are at work during the act of spelling.
