If a student is struggling with grade level sight words, what is a recommended strategy?

Providing explicit directions for spelling and opportunities to use the words is an effective strategy for students struggling with grade-level sight words. By offering clear, step-by-step instructions on how to spell the words, students can understand the structure and phonetic components of each word, which aids retention and retrieval. Additionally, creating opportunities for the students to use the sight words in various contexts—such as through writing exercises, reading activities, or games—reinforces their learning.

This approach addresses the challenges of recognition and recall that may be affecting the student's ability to read fluently. By combining explicit instruction with practical application, the student builds a stronger foundation with these essential words, ultimately improving their reading skills. Encouraging active engagement with the material rather than passive memorization helps to solidify their understanding and confidence in using sight words effectively.