• Word study is based on developmental spelling theory and research, which shows that students learn spelling patterns in a developmental progression that can be organized into stages (Bear et al. 2008).  The word study approach to phonics and spelling instruction is a systematic approach based on this predictable scope and sequence of phonetic and spelling features that parallels students' growing knowledge of English orthography.  Students' spellings help guide teachers in thier instructional decision making and allow them to differentiate effective,  efficient instruction based on thier students' present knowledge. Students should begin instruction where thier assessments indicate, and teachers should address each student at his or her instructional level(Words Thier Way for Struggling Readers pg 15)