Movement + Spelling = Better Learning (and more fun!)
Try a spelling relay and watch your students learn new words faster
Combining physical activities with spelling can improve students' word retention. And it's fun. According to research, movement helps people remember. Especially with young learners, physical word games are easier to include in everyday lessons. Besides improving students spelling abilities, it can also improve social and emotional skills like teamwork.
One easy game I have tried is a simple "Spelling Relay".
Depending on how much space you have in the classroom, divide the class into 2-3 teams. The number of players should match the number of letters in the words. For example, for "M-o-n-d-a-y", there should be 6 players on the team. Each team has a different word to spell but all the same length. Print or write the letters on separate pieces of paper and place on a table or desk at the opposite side of the room.
When the teacher says "3, 2, 1, Spell!" one member of each team runs to get a letter. They tag the next student who gets the 2nd letter, etc. Once the teams have the letters, they must work together to spell out the word correctly. First team with the correct spelling wins.
Adding motion into spelling can improve academic performance but also to help students overall well-being. Research shows combining exercise with learning improves cognition and mood. So, try adding motion to more of your activities - grades will improve and students will be happy.
Reference: Movement-Based Games That Help Students With Spelling