Word study: strange to thought

1 · Learn

Work on one or two words at a time, then come back on another day. Say a word with an adult, explain its meaning and notice its tricky letters. Look, cover, write, uncover and check. A copied word is a useful start; remembering it later and using it correctly are the next steps.

strange: unusual or unfamiliar. Strange ends ange; keep the final e. Read: 'A strange noise came from the story's empty cupboard.'

strength: the quality of being strong. Strength ends ngth; compare strong and strength as a word family. Read: 'We tested the strength of the paper bridge.'

suppose: to think or assume without being certain. Suppose has double p and a final e. Read: 'I suppose the character may be lost, but I need more evidence.'

surprise: something unexpected. Surprise keeps the r after su and another r after p. Read: 'The hidden message was a surprise.'

therefore: for that reason. Therefore ends fore; keep the final e. Read: 'The bridge was closed; therefore, we used the other path.'

though: although or despite the fact that. Though ends ough; its gh is not sounded like the gh in enough. Read: 'Though it was raining, the class could work indoors.'

although: despite the fact that. Although contains the complete word though after al. Read: 'Although the box was small, it held many counters.'

thought: the past form of think in this sentence. Thought contains ough followed by t. Read: 'I thought the first route was shorter until I measured it.'

2 · Worked example

Study strange. I say what it means: unusual or unfamiliar. I notice the spelling: Strange ends ange; keep the final e. I cover the model, write the word, then compare every letter. If a letter is wrong, I correct that part and try again later, rather than copying it many times without thinking.

3 · Your turn

Cover the word list. Write the word meaning 'the quality of being strong'. Uncover and check it. Now write a different sentence using strength; explain to an adult how your sentence shows its meaning.

4 · Apply your learning

Choose two words you found difficult. Ask an adult to read the model sentences aloud, discuss unfamiliar meanings, then dictate one sentence without showing it. Check the spelling and punctuation together. Revisit those words tomorrow and later in the week; record the words you still need to practise on paper or the pad.