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.
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
The Placement Test results place students on the most appropriate Smart Words level.
View the Placement Test Introduction PDF before you begin.
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.
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:
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 A
Level B
Phonogram Charts
Sample Worksheets
Sample Lesson Plans
Check page
Checks – a guide to checking on the basic skills needed to spell correctly
+61 418 955 240
18 North Street, Cottesloe, Western Australia 6011
admin@smartachievers.com.au
All Rights Reserved | Smart Achievers
Site by Helium Marketing