ABSTRACT
Spelling can be very problematic for many children and for some it is a lifelong difficulty. One factor, however, that is very important is that spelling difficulties have an impact on written work. The use of word lists can be a successful and motivating strategy for many with spelling difficulties. It may also be useful to construct an individualised word list of subject-specific words and those that have similar sounds, or look similar. There are also a number of visual strategies that can be used in spelling. These include Look, Cover, Write, and Check, which is a well-established strategy for spelling. For younger children the simultaneous oral spelling method can be both motivating and successful. Writing can be very challenging for many learners. The chapter provides some points to consider in relation to handwriting: Hand dominance; Pencil grip; Posture; Paper position; and Speed of writing. The key point is to try to encourage the learner to become independent and self-sufficient.
