How to improve spelling

Do you have difficulties when you have to write in your target language because you are not sure about the spelling of almost any of the words?

If your answer is yes, I have 3 questions and 10 exercises that help you improve your spelling.

Do you have good spelling in your native language?

Before we even get into it further, we have to address the harsh truth that we usually tend to excell at and struggle with the same skills in both our mother tongue and in our second language. This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t work on your spelling in your target language of course. On the contrary, you should practice it even more.

Do You practice all 4 areas?

The most common reason for this problem is the lack of writing practice. No matter how often we practice if we don’t work on all 4 areas (listening, speaking, writing, reading) we can stay behind in some skills.

Do you have spell check on your phone and laptop?

The other common reason is relying on spellcheck apps too much. You might have thought, reading the previous question, Hey, but I text all the time! The honest answer here, unfortunately, is that most likely you have a spellcheck app that helps you with spelling, therefore you never have to actually write words down letter by letter.

Games you can play with your tandem partner or somebody who speaks the language to improve spelling:

• Spelling bee
• Hanged man
• Scrabble (If you can’t find a partner to practice with I’ve made a solo version for scrabble. You can use any longer word even from this very post.)

• Read and write more. As simple and obvious this advice may sound, as effective it is. Sometimes you simply just need to practice more.
• Copy texts by hand. It reinforces the correct spelling of words.

I’ve collected 10 exercises to help you improve your spelling. If you got super motivated but don’t know what to write about, here are some topics.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

• Advanced language learning goalsOctober 29, 2022
  It is easy to set goals as a beginner. You want to speak fluently, want to understand movies, or maybe just simply create a sentence. But what can you look forward to once you’ve achieved all of this? As an advanced language learner, you can make it a goal to repeat words less and use … Read moreAdvanced language learning goals
• Language learning motivation for advanced learnersJune 3, 2022
  Say no to monotony and lack of new impulses and challenges, and get back on track. Buckle up ’cause in no time your passion for languages will be back. I guarantee you will feel the rush of emotions you used to feel in the beginning again.
• How to learn advanced vocabularyMay 14, 2022
  In order to learn advanced words, you must use advanced listening and reading resources, and once you find an unknown word you have to not only translate it but also see it in context in order to be able to use it correctly. You should also put it into practice immediately by using it in … Read moreHow to learn advanced vocabulary