what is the difference???

[AliciainNC]

between vocabulary and spelling. I am trying to decided if I should continue with spelling or begin vocabulary for my 5th grader. Better yet should I just do both.:confused:

 

Help me!!!!:banghead:

[8filltheheart]

in my mind, they are totally different. Vocab is the ability to recognize the definition of a word; I think spelling is, well, rather obvious.

 

My kids vocabulary far exceeds their spelling ability. (Thankfully!! I think an 18 yr old speaking with a 3rd grade vocab would be rather humiliating.....more so than his spelling, anyway!!)

 

:)

[Stacy in NJ]

If you have a strong natural speller, I think it's fine to drop it. I think almost all kiddos can benefit from vocab study.

[LisaKinVA]

I think the two can be done using the same curriculum... This is what we did when I was younger.

 

If you have a strong speller -- focus on the vocabulary. If not a strong speller, still focus on the vocab -- but add in additional spelling work (spelling pre-tests, flash cards, oral spelling drills, etc.)

 

Other than young children -- who you may be working to re-enforce spelling rules and phonics rules through spelling, I don't think you need to do both as separate subjects. JMHO:)

[AliciainNC]

Thank you all for the sound advice. I can now stop banging my head.:)

[Pretty in Pink]

agreeing w/ the PPs, and adding that our vocabulary words seem to always be drawn directly from our current area of study, whereas spelling lists tend to focus on one rule of spelling at a time.