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Dear Smart-E-Pants, Inc., Parents: I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to the Spalding Method of Language Arts instruction I will be using with your child. The Spalding Method is an integrated, multi-sensory, total language arts approach to learning. A total language arts approach incorporates speaking, spelling, listening, writing and reading comprehension instruction. The first essential element of this method is the spelling lesson. In the spelling lesson your child will be taught phonemic awareness, which means that (s)he will learn that spoken words consist of individual sounds called phonemes. (S)he will also learn to say, write, and read the symbols that represent common English speech sounds. Then, your child will begin instruction in a core vocabulary used in speaking, writing, and reading. This vocabulary includes English patterns and concepts, which I will deal with directly and systematically. Your child will be introduced to correct pronunciation, capitalization, punctuation and grammar at an appropriate level for your pre-schooler. Spelling instruction is essential because it teaches your student how the English language works. The second essential element of this method is writing instruction. Though your child is a pre-schooler, and may not be able to write at this time, I will be laying basic groundwork in the understanding of sentences and what important elements go into stories. Much of this groundwork will be oral, pre-writing activities that will eventually lead to written compositions. Writing instruction will benefit your child because (s)he will learn to use high frequency and content words in meaningful sentences. The third essential element is reading instruction. This includes literary appreciation, understanding the author’s purpose, and the components of different types of writing. I will also be modeling for (her) him comprehension actions that are necessary for understanding all types of print, though (s)he is not able to read at this time. The benefits of reading instruction are that (s)he will enjoy reading, (s)he will eventually be able to identify different text structures, and (s)he will be prepared to apply comprehension actions as (s)he moves up in the grades. The last essential element of the Spalding Method is the philosophy, which is based on sound principles of learning and instruction. Instruction is direct and sequential, and encourages active participation. The philosophy is child-centered, fostering your child’s physical and mental well-being. Physical well-being can include how to hold a pencil, how to sit, and how to write comfortably and efficiently. Success with the processes of reading and writing will raise your child’s self-esteem, thus increasing (her) his mental well-being. I will be observing your child daily, and I will plan appropriate, integrated lessons to meet your pre-schooler’s needs. I will have high, but realistic expectations, and I will model and encourage quality work. I will give your child the purpose and the reason behind each task, and there will be many opportunities for the development of high level thinking skills. I hope to help your child develop mental self-discipline. Though this sounds very academic, all activities will be developmentally appropriate. I strongly encourage you to participate actively, along with your child, by taking advantage of the materials I will have available. The Spalding Method is a total language arts approach that will set your child up for success through years to come.
Sincerely, Amber Bardin
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