Stephen has a 10-word spelling test every Tuesday. Here’s how we prepare:

  • Saturday - Clarify pronunciation and copy each word twice.
  • Sunday - Mock spelling test. For every word missed, write it again.
  • Monday - Repeat mock spelling test.
  • Tuesday - Re-read words before school.

Aside from the first time when Stephen refused to participate until word #6 because he thought the test was “stupid,” the boy has done well. He’s scored 10/10 on the rest except one and on that one he scored a 9/10. When he had a hissy fit over the one he missed, the TA told him to never mind about the test and just sit it out. The reverse psychology worked.

When she called out the next word, he said, “I know that one.”

“That’s nice, Stephen, but you don’t have to do it anymore if you don’t want to,” she replied. (heh The woman is goood.)

“But I know it! I’ll write it down,” obstinate boy continued the test without further complaints.

So our test prep clearly works. Problem is, he finds something to complain about every single stinking day that we practice spelling. After our last practice session, I said, “You are very lucky you have a mother to practice with you. What have you been getting on your spelling tests because you work so hard?”

“I get 10 out of 10.”

“What do you think other children get if they don’t have parents to practice their spelling with them?”

“Zero out of 10.”

SLAM DUNK! That’s recognition that was long past due.

award 3