Spelling Power is a comprehensive, multi-level spelling curriculum that teaches students to master the 5,000 most frequently used English words through systematic, multi-sensory instruction in just 15 minutes per day.
What is Spelling Power?
Spelling Power is a mastery-based spelling curriculum created by Beverly L. Adams-Gordon that covers all students from age 8 through high school with a single purchase. The program organizes the 5,000 most frequently used English words into 47 phonetic groups across 11 frequency levels. Rather than having students memorize word lists, Spelling Power uses diagnostic testing to identify which words each student needs to learn, then employs multi-sensory activities to build mastery. The curriculum has supported over 250,000 families since 1993 and remains popular for its efficiency and comprehensive approach.
Key Takeaways
- Single purchase covers all children ages 8 through high school
- Requires only 15 minutes daily: 5 min pre-test, 5 min study, 5 min activity
- Mastery-based approach—students only study words they don't already know
- Multi-sensory activities reinforce spelling rules and patterns
- Uses Orton-Gillingham inspired systematic phonetic instruction
How It Works
Each daily lesson follows a consistent three-part structure. First, a five-minute pre-test identifies which words from the next list your child doesn't already know. Students who spell words correctly skip them entirely—no wasting time on mastered material. Second, five minutes of focused study on missed words using the program's systematic approach. Third, five minutes of hands-on activity reinforcing spelling patterns through multi-sensory methods: letter tiles, games, and exercises that engage different learning modalities. This efficiency means spelling instruction takes just 15 minutes daily while producing strong results.
Placement and Progression
New students take diagnostic tests that place them at the appropriate level within the program—regardless of grade. A 6th grader might start at Level 4 while an advanced 4th grader begins at Level 6. This individualized placement prevents frustration for struggling spellers and boredom for advanced ones. As students master words in each phonetic group, they progress through the program at their own pace. The 47 phonetic groups teach spelling rules systematically, helping students understand why words are spelled as they are rather than relying solely on memorization.
What's Included
The Spelling Power Teacher's Manual (approximately $65) contains everything: word lists, teaching instructions, activity guides, and placement tests. Each student needs an inexpensive Student Record Book (about $8) to track progress and practice writing. Unlike many curricula requiring annual purchases, Spelling Power is a one-time investment that serves multiple children indefinitely. The books can be reused across siblings, making it economical for larger families. Some families supplement with letter tiles or other manipulatives for the multi-sensory activities, though these are optional.
Who It Works Best For
Spelling Power suits families who want efficient, systematic spelling instruction without spending extensive time on the subject. The mastery approach works well for both strong spellers (who quickly test out of known words) and struggling spellers (who focus intensively on challenging patterns). The multi-sensory methods help various learning styles. However, the program requires consistent daily use to work properly—it's not designed for sporadic practice. Some families initially find the system overwhelming due to the comprehensive manual; taking time to understand the approach before beginning pays dividends.
The Bottom Line
Spelling Power offers a comprehensive, research-based approach to spelling instruction that covers an entire family's needs with a single purchase. The 15-minute daily format respects both parent and student time while the mastery-based system ensures efficient learning. For families seeking systematic spelling instruction that works across multiple children and grade levels, the one-time investment proves economical over time. The approach requires commitment to daily practice and initial effort to understand the system, but families who implement it consistently report strong spelling improvement across various learners.
