Beyond Traditional Correction: The Efficacy of Letter Sequencing in Spelling Instruction

Abstract

This research investigates the overlooked skill of spelling, with a focus on Arab learners facing challenges in English. It critically examines traditional spelling correction methods, such as Words Spelt Correctly (WSC), and introduces the Correct Letter Sequencing (CLS) approach as an innovative alternative. English spelling complexities, especially for Arab learners, prompt the exploration of alternative methods. The study's comparative analysis reveals significant differences in outcomes and implications between WSC and CLS correction. While WSC's binary model raises concerns about its impact on student psychology and pedagogy, CLS offers a nuanced evaluation, recognizing incremental success and fostering a positive learning environment. The study concludes by emphasizing the holistic nature of education and advocating for a more empathetic approach to spelling assessment. It calls for educators to recognize the transformative power of innovative methods like CLS and encourages a departure from rigid assessment models. The proposal for automating the CLS scoring process stands as a necessary step towards making this valuable tool more accessible and practical for modern educators, contributing to a positive and empowering educational landscape.