Spelling Rules

Here are the first spelling rules that students should know.

1. Every word has at least one vowel.
2. Every syllable has at least one vowel.
3. C can say /k/ or /s/. C says /s/ before an e, i, or y (cent, city, cycle). It says /k/ before everything else (cat, clip).
4. G can say /g/ or /j/. G may say /j/ before an e, i, or y (gem, giant, gym). It says /g/ before everything else (garden, glad).
5. Q is always followed by a u (queen).
6. Double the consonants f, l, and s at the end of a one-syllable word that has just one vowel (stiff, spell, pass).
7. To spell the sound of /k/ at the end of a word, we use ck or k. Use ck after a short vowel (sick). After everything else, use a k (milk).
8. Capitalize names.

After your student has mastered the above spelling rules and applies them consistently, go on to this next set of rules.

1. A, e, o, and u usually say their name at the end of a syllable (a-pron, me, go, u-nit).
2. Words do not end in v or j. We add a silent e at the end of the word (have).
3. Contractions replace letter(s) with an apostrophe to shorten a phrase (I’ve represents I have).
4. I and o may say /ī/ and /ō/ before two consonants (kind, sold). /j/ is spelled dge after a short vowel (edge).
5. Capitalize the names of places (Florida).

Did you know that All About Spelling teaches these spelling rules? For even more detailed information on spelling rules, check out our blog posts below.