Spelling/vocabulary isn't something I have had to emphasize very much. With regular book reading and discussion, occasional dictation assignments, and regular writing, all four kids have developed above-average vocabulary and spelling through a kind of purposeful natural exposure. But I like to throw out a little spelling about once a week. It seems to accelerate their absorption of word formation, like a dictation now and then causes them to notice punctuation and sentence structure more consciously.
We've found that the program "Sequential Spelling" (http://avko.org/sequentialspelling.html) is great for struggling spellers and for building confidence in the earlier grades, but it can get tedious for kids who are fairly comfortable with the basic patterns. It's fun to mix it up sometimes and try some new or tricky words.
I like the lists below best of the ones I've found*. I like the variety they have. We don't stick to grade level, but use a list that seems intriguing to the kids, since they get a lot of word exposure and would rather be challenged with new language than get everything right on a list of things they already know.
For a word nut like me (any more of you out there?), the 12th grade list is fun to read through.
12th grade list:
http://www.learnthat.org/word_lists/view/4206
6th grade list:
http://www.learnthat.org/word_lists/view/9932
3rd grade list:
http://www.learnthat.org/word_lists/view/3069
*I haven't been able to find these lists directly through their home page. I accessed them first through a Google search. I type in: "learn that" _th grade word list (Fill in the blank with the grade number.)
