Testing
Schonells Spelling Age Test
The Schonells worked closely with Orton and Gillingham when they organised phonograms into a sequential, sound-symbol based, linguistically logical, understandable teaching order. Their spelling test is still relevant today, as is the work of Orton-Gillingham. The Schonell Spelling age test provides an accurate measure of a child’s spelling ability according to the sequence most spelling programs would follow.
Read the instructions here before starting
Schonell Spelling Age Test A and B
Schonell Student Test Sheet
Automatic Analysis Spelling Age Test Results
WOLD Testing
Each student is to be given an individual copy of the sentence to be written in the font style closest to the script used within the school at the current year level. Four choices of lettering are provided.
Students will also need a sheet of lined paper to write on. Line spacing should be age and grade-appropriate.
A suitable writing tool should be ready for use.
Students are given one minute to copy the attached sentence.
The maximum score is 110 letters. This includes a comma and a full stop.
The expected copying rates for mid-year 1 to mid-year 8 are:
Year Rate (letters per minute)
1 20-25
2 30
3 40
4 50
5 60
6 67
7 75
8 80
Placement Tests
The Placement Test results place students on the most appropriate Smart Words level.
View the Placement Test Introduction PDF before you begin.
Analysis Grids
Smart Words Word Study Program aims to teach students at their level.
To help ensure you are using class time as effectively as possible, we have devised these ready to use analysis grids.
How do they work?
- On the left-hand side, insert the names of your students. After they have sat the placement test, enter (Y) if they spelt the word correctly or (N) if it was spelt incorrectly.
- Based on the number of students that got a particular word wrong, the grid automatically tells you what lists:
- must be explicitly taught to the group;
- should be assigned for homework to the individual;
- can be skipped by the whole group. - You can even use the ‘Sort’ tool to have Excel rearrange your class list to show you your weakest to strongest spellers, indicating who may need more help, and who may need to move groups or continue onto the next Smart Words level.
Session Methodology
Mastery Testing Passages
These are a great way to test if a child is able to transfer the list words into a dictated sentence. The purpose in learning to spell words correctly is so that a clear message is delivered to the reader.
The Mastery Testing Passages include revision words and words from the list group have been currently learning.
You can download a hardcopy here to record students' progress. It is also necessary to notate and reteach common errors:
Mastery Testing Passages C to Z
Instructions on how to use the Mastery Testing Passages:
How to use the Mastery Testing Passages Power Point
How to use the Mastery Testing Passages in Hard Copy
Level C
Level D
Level E
Level F
Level G
Level H
Level I
Level J
Level K
Level L
Level M
Level N
Level O
Level P
Level Q
Level R
Level S
Level T
Level U
Level V
Level W
Level X
Level Y
Level Z
Planning and Classroom Resources
View Resources
Level A
Level B
Phonogram Charts
Multisyllabic Spelling List
Sample Worksheets
Sample Lesson Plans
Check page
Checks – a guide to checking on the basic skills needed to spell correctly