The Spalding Method: a comprehensive program for learning to read, write and to spell

 

The Spalding Method^®, as taught in The Writing Road to Reading program, is an evidence-based program that has been used to teach thousands of children and adults to read, write, and spell.

In 2000, the United States National Reading Panel identified “the Big 5” evidence-based components necessary to teach children to read:

• phonemic awareness: the understanding that spoken words and syllables consist of sequences of speech sounds – a powerful predictor in learning to read – including the abilities to to blend sounds into words and to segment words into sounds;
• systematic phonics:  recognising that a relatively small set of letter-sound units can be combined in different ways to construct any number of words;
• vocabulary: understanding the words we must know to communicate effectively;
• text fluency: the ability to read text with speed, accuracy and proper expression; and 
• comprehension strategies: ways to actively connect ideas in print with prior knowledge and experiences, constructing mental representations, using cognitive strategies and using reason strategically when comprehension breaks down.

The Spalding Method integrates explicit, sequential, systematic and multi-sensory teaching of each of the Big 5, as well as helping to develop an appreciation of the different kinds of texts and the joys of reading great literature:

 

In Spalding lessons, students learn the purpose for every task and are active participants. Observations and assessments enable teachers to tailor instruction to meet each child’s individual needs.

The Method, as taught in the Writing Road to Reading program, is ideally suited to:

• Students with language and learning difficulties (including specific language impairment, dyslexia and autism);
• Gifted students who are up for a challenge;
• Mainstream primary school from Kindergarten – Grade 6;
• English as a Second Language (ESL) students; and
• Adult learners with difficulties.

Spalding teachers have high expectations. They believe that students’ physical and mental well-being is their primary concern and that all children and adults can learn. 

This program is thoroughly researched, time tested and has achieved proven results year after year. The Writing Road to Reading program is everything you need to achieve excellence in literacy.

David has completed the 45-hour Writing Road to Reading training course, with his competency assessed in handwriting, written and oral assignments nd examinations. He achieved an overall course grade of “A”. The course has been recognized through the International Dyslexia Association (IDA) Standards review process. These rigorous standards are reviewed by the International Multisensory Structured Language Education Council (IMSLEC).

More information: Spalding Australia Website, National Reading Panel Report 2000.

Related articles:

• Is your child struggling to read? Here’s what works
• The forgotten reading skill: fluency and what it matters
• 6 strategies to improve you child’s reading comprehension and how to put them into practice
• How to help your school-age child learn new words
• Do we spend too much time on rhyming books?

Banter Speech & Language

Banter Speech & Language is an independent firm of speech pathologists for adults and children. We help clients in our local area, including Concord, Rhodes, Strathfield and all other suburbs of Sydney’s Inner West.

Banter Speech & Language is owned and managed by David Kinnane, a Hanen- and LSVT LOUD-certified speech-language pathologist with post-graduate training in the Spalding Method for literacy, the Lidcombe and Camperdown Programs for stuttering, and Voicecraft for voice disorders. David is also a Certified PESL Instructor for accent modification.

David holds a Master of Speech Language Pathology from the University of Sydney, where he was a Dean’s Scholar. David is a Practising Member of Speech Pathology Australia and a Certified Practising Speech Pathologist (CPSP).