What strategy is recommended for teaching spelling to ELL students?

The recommended strategy of explicit phonics instruction and word study activities for teaching spelling to ELL students is effective because it engages learners in understanding the relationships between sounds, letters, and meanings. This approach enables students to decode words, recognize patterns, and apply their knowledge to unfamiliar words, facilitating a deeper understanding of the language.

Phonics instruction supports the development of skills necessary for learning the spelling patterns in English, which can be particularly beneficial for ELL students who may not have a strong foundation in the language. By incorporating word study activities, educators provide opportunities for ELL students to explore and manipulate words, enhancing their engagement and retention of spelling rules. This method encourages active learning and helps students make connections to their existing knowledge in both their first language and English.

Combining phonics with contextual learning ensures that students see the relevance of spelling in communication and helps them apply their skills in real-world scenarios, ultimately leading to better literacy outcomes.