The Spalding Method
The Spalding method requires the class to first learn 54 of the 70 phonograms by saying their sounds and writing them. Then the class will write them from dictation as they say the phonogram sounds. These 70 symbols represent 45 common English speech sounds.
The students develop basic vocabulary by writing the 30 words from the Ayres word list in a spelling notebook. The class learns to understand and use the rules and concepts of the written language.
The Spalding Method is a total language approach because it integrates instruction in speech, spelling, writing, reading, and listening.
The Spalding mission is to develop skilled readers, critical listeners, accomplished speakers, spellers, and writers who are lifelong learners.
Six elements of the philosophy are:
- Child-Centered: Physical comfort and mental well-being are primary concerns. Physical comfort means students can sit, write, and learn free from pain or stress. Mental well-being means the feelings of achievement, affection, and acceptance by you and their peers.
- Multisensory: More than one sense is used to send information to the brain. Students see, hear, say, and write phonograms and words.
- Higher-Level Thinking: Analysis, reasoning, synthesis, and evaluation are imbedded in each element.
- Quality: High expectations and a desire for personal growth are the basis for daily lessons and activities. High expectations mean that students of all ability levels are stretched to meet their potential. Personal growth means that teachers and students develop a desire to continue learning.
- Value: Students understand the purpose of daily activities and practice knowledge and concepts in meaningful ways. The teacher explains the importance of every task and designs activities that are used in life.
- Integration: The processes of listening, speaking, spelling, reading, and writing are integrated in language arts. Further integration occurs as these processes are used in other subjects.
The philosophy is important because it guides instructional decisions and stimulates lifelong learning.
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