"In a Fresh Look at Phonics, Wiley Blevins, author of the blockbuster Phonics from A-Z, explains the 7 ingredients of phonics instruction that lead to the greatest student gains, based on two decades of research in classrooms. For each of these seven must-haves, Wiley shares lessons, routines, word lists, tips for ELL and advanced learners, and advice on pitfalls to avoid regarding pacing, decodable texts, transition time, and more. A Fresh Look at...

When Mr. Wright's students express a dislike for silent letters, the offended letters decide to teach them a lesson by going on strike.

When Agatha Parrot joins the spelling club to support her new friend Martha, she gets help from an unexpected source--her cousin, Bella, who thinks she is emailing Agatha's brother.

Presents a history of English spelling through chapters that cover such topics as the introduction of the Roman alphabet, each letter's origins, and the development of long and short vowels.

Analyzes sound and letter patterns, diphthongs, silent letters, homophones and homographs, compound and abbreviated words, contractions, prefixes, suffixes, and base words to teach spelling skills.

Focuses on the art of successful written communication. Presents exercises for improving vocabulary, pronunciation, and spelling, as well as understanding context, definitions, word parts, denotation and connotation, synonyms, and antonyms. Includes pre- and post-tests and answers, crossword puzzles for each word list, and an appendix of study tips for retaining definitions and passing standardized tests.