Spelling has often been overlooked in modern education, with some educators and administrators even deeming spelling assessments unnecessary. Yet, I argue that this overlook is a significant error. In an age where technology aids us in spelling, one might question the importance of knowing how to spell. However, spelling plays a crucial role in understanding our language's orthography—the patterns by which letters form words. These patterns are fundamental for students to grasp because they underpin the ability to read with automaticity, making spelling a key prerequisite skill.

Often, reading and spelling are viewed as separate skills. However, they are two sides of the same coin: reading involves decoding, while spelling involves encoding. Both skills are reciprocal and support each other. Understanding spelling conventions is essential because although most letters maintain consistent sounds, many change based on their position within a word or the letters surrounding them. This understanding is encapsulated in two main properties:the Position Property and the Protection Property, which influence various spelling patterns in English.

• The Position Property states that whether a sound is found in the beginning, middle, or end of a word can affect the sound of the letter. often there is a relationship between letters that sit next to each other in a word. 
• The Protection Property accounts for the fact that single vowels can change depending on the letters that come directly after them. Therefore, single vowels need more than one consonant to protect them so they can maintain their short sound.

To navigate the complexities of spelling, it's helpful to use terms like "spelling pattern," or "spelling guideline" instead of rigid "spelling rules." These terms acknowledge the flexibility of our language and encourage students to explore patterns rather than memorize arbitrary rules. 

In order to recognize patterns and be able to talk about the intricacies of a word, students should become familiar with six main types of letters. These include 

• Single Consonants- Speech sounds that are not vowels and are formed with the mouth partially closed and the airflow obstructed by the lipsm teeth, and tongue.
• Consonant Digraphs- Two or more letters that make one consonant sound.
• Consonant Blends- Two letters that are co-articulated but still maintain their individual sounds. 
• Single Vowels- Open, unobstructed speech sounds that are not consonants.
• Vowel Teams- Two or more vowels that make one vowel sound. 
• Vowel Diphthongs- A speech sound made by combining two vowels where the vowel starts at one sound and moves to another in the mouth. 

1. English words do not usually end in, “u”, “j”, “v” or “I” this explains words like have, live, blue, cage and try and many more.

Despite the apparent complexity of English spelling, our language makes sense when viewed through the lens of orthography, morphology, and etymology. 

• Orthography pertains to the spelling patterns and conventions within a language. 
•  Morphology examines how words are formed and structured, including prefixes, suffixes, and root words. 
• Etymology delves into the historical origins and development of words, tracing their paths through different languages and cultures. By understanding the interplay between orthography, morphology, and etymology, we can unveil the logic behind many spelling patterns.

While there are exceptions, such as words borrowed from other languages or a small percentage of irregular words, the majority of English words follow predictable patterns. By fostering curiosity and encouraging students to look for these patterns, we empower them to become proficient spellers and readers. Ultimately, spelling is not just about mastering individual words but about unlocking the mysteries of language itself.