Learn Spelling Rules: Forming Harder Words Using Tricky Sounds (7-11 years) - Activity Pack (1)

In the Activity Pack for 7-11-year-olds, Challenge 14 presents young learners with the task of mastering the complexities of spelling words that contain the tricky sound combinations 'ough' and 'augh'. This engaging challenge is themed around a character named Zoggy, who, despite not being the most adept at sports, has a talent for spelling. The narrative sets the scene with Zoggy in a boxing ring, counting punches and facing the trials of competition, which leads to a reflection on his abilities and the realisation that his strength lies in his spelling prowess rather than his athletic skills.

The core of the challenge involves sorting a list of words into two groups based on their sound patterns, 'AU' and 'OU'. Words such as 'taught', 'ought', 'bought', and 'fought' are to be categorised accordingly. The activity continues with a 'Read, Copy, Cover & Spell' exercise that encourages the learners to practice a variety of longer words that end in 'ful', 'able', 'ous', and 'ious', such as 'mouthful', 'delightful', 'thoughtful', and 'beautiful'. The emphasis is placed on recognising the spelling rules for these endings, including the use of a single 'l' in words like 'beautiful'. The activity culminates in a spelling test, where students are reminded to listen carefully to the sounds within words to distinguish between the endings 'ble', 'able', 'ous', and 'ious', thereby reinforcing their understanding and application of these spelling rules.