Voices from the Middle, Vol. 9, No. 3, March 2002

Table of Contents

Issue Theme: Spellynge, Spellyng, Spelling

• Effective Spelling Instruction in the Middle Grades: It’s a Lot More than Memorization

  Shane Templeton

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  Abstract: "The purpose of this article," Shane Templeton argues, "is to describe for middle school teachers the logic of spelling; how spelling knowledge may be assessed and developed; and how attention to spelling at the middle grades might be organized."

  Keywords: Middle, Assessment, Language, Pedagogy, Professional Development

• Taking the Guesswork out of Spelling

  Jay Richards

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  Abstract: Jay Richards insists that "when students discover the organizational patterns behind the spelling, they learn to see that the language is more principled and less random than they thought. When they learn how our language works, students can takeout much of the guesswork of spelling." Read more to find out how to make your spelling lessons more engaging.

  Keywords: Middle, Language, Pedagogy, Professional Development

• Spellbound: Commitment to Correctness

  Gail Thibodeau

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  Abstract: Gail Thibodeau discusses how the "Spelling Unforgivables" were eventually incorporated into the language arts curriculum in order to emphasize the importance of spelling instruction.

  Keywords: Middle, Assessment, Language, Literacy, Pedagogy

• Supporting Challenged Spellers

  Rebecca Sipe with Jennifer Walsh, Karen Reed-Nordwall, Dawn Put

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  Abstract: Read about this group of teacher-researchers inquiry-based study to understand the spelling dilemmas of their young students.

  Keywords: Elementary, Middle, Secondary, Assessment, Language, Literacy, Pedagogy, Research, Writing

• Spelling: From Invention to Strategies

  Howard M. Miller

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  Abstract: Veteran educator Howard Miller shares a set of strategies that can propel middle school writers (and "inventive" spellers) into the role of being responsible and strategic in this Voices from the Middle article.

  Keywords: Middle, Pedagogy, Writing

• TECH CONNECT: Spelling: Blame It on Technology

  Nancy Patterson, editor

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  Abstract: Discusses how the technology of alphabetic writing is the first technology to "blame" for students' spelling problems. Considers the use of computers and spell checkers in dealing with spelling issues. Lists 10 Web sites that address spelling reform; research on spelling; and spelling lists, tests, tips, and games.

  Keywords: Middle

• BOOK TALK: What Books Should Anyone Working with Teens Know?

  Teri S. Lesesne, editor

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  Abstract: Presents an annotated list of 44 young adult books that represent the wide range of young adult literature available for teens. Represents a variety of genres from poetry to science fiction/fantasy to historical fiction and story collections. Lists the 2002 winners for six major awards.

  Keywords: Middle

• FROM STUDENT TO STUDENT: Hope Springs Eternal

  Kim Ford, editor

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  Abstract: Presents annotations of 12 novels for young adults. Encourages teachers to give their students books to read because it often makes a difference.

  Keywords: Middle

• EDITOR'S MESSAGE: When Spelling Is a Challenge

  Kylene Beers

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  Abstract: Abstract for this article is currently not available.

  Keywords: Middle

• A HAND UP: Crime and Punishment

  Chris Crutcher, editor

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  Abstract: Abstract for this article is currently not available.

  Keywords: Middle

• ONE LAST THOUGHT: Spelling for Spelling's Sake?

  Jeff Wilhelm, editor

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  Abstract: Abstract for this article is currently not available.

  Keywords: Middle

• PROFESSIONAL BOOK REVIEWS: Spelling Our Way

  Leigh Van Horn, editor

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  Abstract: Abstract for this article is currently not available.

  Keywords: Middle

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