Using a Dictionary to Check Spellings
Use the first two or three letters of a word to check its spelling in a dictionary; consult reference materials including beginning dictionaries to verify and correct spellings
Suggested ages 7–11
Learning journey
Your child is learning important spelling rules — using apostrophes correctly for possession, distinguishing between words that sound the same, and understanding how prefixes and suffixes work.
Evidence of understanding
- Locate a word in a dictionary using its first two or three letters (e.g., find 'beautiful' by looking up 'be-')
- Check and correct a misspelling by comparing with the dictionary entry (e.g., look up 'freind' → 'friend')
- Use a glossary or beginning dictionary to confirm spelling of a word used in own writing
Assessment prompt
If Using a Dictionary to Check Spellings isn't sure how to spell a word, can they look it up in a dictionary by using the first two or three letters to find it quickly?
Standards alignment
L.2.2e
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 2
L.3.2g
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 3
L.4.4c
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 4
L.5.4c
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 5
Use dictionaries
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2
Use first letters for dictionary check
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2
Use dictionary to check spelling
The national curriculum in England: Key stages 1 and 2 framework document · Key Stage 2