Spelling tests in Reception

[chapca]

Hi all

My child is in Reception and grouped for phonics based on ability (I guess). DC's group have just started the RWI speed sounds 3 and are now being sent home a few words to learn for weekly spelling tests. A combination of tricky words and some using the set 3 phonics. Is this normal? It seems pretty early to me..

If they're grouped by ability, then presumably they're ready for it. As long as the spellings are appropriately pitched the children should enjoy the challenge.

Blimey - I think a bit early unless they are very keen. I would worry about them getting put off reading/writing by being "tested" very much depends on the vibe you get as to why they are doing it. If it's on the basis "if they want to" all well and good.

We had common word lists in reception to learn to read - a set of 20 per term. Could it be this? It's words to learn to read not to spell - big difference

At my ds's school children had list to read, but my ds got list to spell, since he was an advanced reader. So, he had spelling test, not reading test, from start of reception. It's possible.

DS has had spellings since before Xmas. Just 5 words a week and they don't bring them home to practise or anything, but he enjoys the test and collecting his certificate in the school assembly when he gets full marks.

DS also gets weekly homework, which can be writing some sentences, doing some simple addition or subtraction or something else to support their learning at home. The teacher is keen to point out that homework is optional at this age (he is not 5 for a few months), but DS loves doing it.

Yes it is a test. They get the words to prepare a week in advance. To be honest my little one seems fine with it and I imagine he is in the top group, it just seems a bit early to start learn words rather than just concentrating on the phonics. I'll try to ask the teacher if I find a good moment.