Word study: minute to opposite

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.

minute: a unit of time equal to sixty seconds. For this time word, remember minute ends ute; the same spelling has another pronunciation in another meaning. Read: 'We watched the timer for one minute.'

natural: found in nature rather than made by people. Natural has one t and ends ural; compare nature. Read: 'The display compared a natural pebble with a plastic bead.'

naughty: behaving badly or disobediently. Naughty contains augh before ty; describe behaviour thoughtfully, not a person's permanent worth. Read: 'The fictional character made a naughty choice and hid the cards.'

notice: to become aware of something. Notice has c before the final e. Read: 'Did you notice the repeated pattern in the border?'

occasion: a particular event or time. Occasion has double c but only one s. Read: 'The opening of the library was a happy occasion.'

occasionally: sometimes, but not often. Keep occasion, then use the ending ally; keep double c and double l. Read: 'We occasionally perform our poems for another class.'

often: many times or frequently. Often keeps t whether or not it is sounded in your accent. Read: 'The character often visits the garden after school.'

opposite: across from or facing something. Opposite has double p and ends ite. Read: 'The reading seat was opposite the window.'

2 · Worked example

Study minute. I say what it means: a unit of time equal to sixty seconds. I notice the spelling: For this time word, remember minute ends ute; the same spelling has another pronunciation in another meaning. 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 'found in nature rather than made by people'. Uncover and check it. Now write a different sentence using natural; 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.