Spelling Workout is a research-based workbook series for grades K to 8. It takes a phonetic approach in the lower levels and a structural approach in the upper levels to teach spelling. Each level includes 36 lessons. Level A has 6–8 words per list, Level B has 10–15, Level C has 15–20, and Levels D–H have 20, grouped by a common feature such as a rule, pattern, or origin. Students practice using these words through a variety of activities, puzzles, and cross-curricular reading passages that show the words in context. Spelling Workout correlates closely to MCP Phonics, although both programs are complete within themselves and can be used independently.
Student Workbooks are consumable, and in Levels A–F, lessons begin with a short passage to hook the reader. In Levels G–H, the passage is omitted and replaced with an etymology section, which exposes students to word origins and word histories while increasing vocabulary. Word lists and spelling tips follow, then practice activities. Activities include crossword puzzles, riddles, and games to motivate students by making learning fun. After the activities, spelling and writing practice encourages students to apply the list words in different contexts. There are proofreading selections and writing prompts to help make connections between spelling and everyday writing. An interesting point: word lists are only in print type in only Level A. Levels B and C show the word lists in both print and cursive type. Levels D and beyond show the list only in cursive. A cumulative review comes up every five lessons. The end of each student workbook includes a student dictionary of all the words in that level.
Teacher Editions include pre-test dictation sentences, spelling strategies, teaching notes, spelling and writing suggestions, and answers to the student workbook. (I like the idea of a student checking their own work in the TE and then bringing it to you for discussion.) Correlated phonics lessons to MCP Phonics (Plaid Phonics) are included with each spelling lesson, should you choose to use them together for Levels A–F.
Packages with both the student and teacher books are available for your convenience.
Spelling Workout is one of those programs that is not-too-this and not-too-that. The number of words and exercises are just right for many students. Don’t be fooled into thinking this series is “old-fashioned” because of the 2001 copyright. The reading passages are varied and engaging. The word lists are carefully selected. And your student will likely appreciate that the levels are A, B, C, etc. rather than grade 1, 2, 3, etc. if they are working a bit below their grade level.
