Extensive research has indicated that a child's spelling is a window to his level of learning. This book provides diagnostic tests that only take a few minutes to give, but provide specific and valuable information about the child's level of literacy.

I have required my college students in Tests & Measurements to purchase this book and to perform tests on children.

Though the introductory chapters seem to be a "heavy read" to some, this book is clear, well-written, and practical. Teachers and curriculum supervisors would be well advised to understand the material set forth in this volume.


Practical and Indispensible   July 21, 2000
 46 out of 47 found this review helpful

While at the University of Nevada, Reno (where co-authors Donald Bear and Shane Templeton teach), I was required to have this book for my language arts method class. It is very practical, and teachers will enjoy the games and word sorts which help reinforce spelling, vocabulary, and phonics instruction. This book has a little bit of theory regarding the levels of reading literacy, but the majority of the book is devoted to word study activities.

This is a book that belongs on every teacher's bookshelf, and it is a book teachers will refer to time and again. It is a book designed to be USED, not talked about.


A must have for new teachers   November 18, 1999
 40 out of 42 found this review helpful

As a first year title 1 reading teacher I was feeling overwhelmed with responsibilities and stressed out over where to begin. A coworker let me borrow this book one day and I ordered it that night. Finally I had a sense of where to start and what to do next! This book is full of ideas for teaching reading and writing in fun and creative ways. It is also a wonderful resource for deciphering where your students are in their learning and what they need next.


Comprehesive and useful   March 7, 2004
 37 out of 38 found this review helpful

This is a good reference for educators to use when planning their word study lessons. I use the error guides to determine my skills-based spelling groups; this is very time saving and provides great insight into the individual child. I also use the McGuffy spelling assessment. Between the two, I have a great grasp on my students' word study skills. There are many great activities and games for all abilities. This is a good source for open and closed word sorts. Charts and game are very useful. Definitely teacher-friendly and well laid out.