Look, say, cover, write, check template

This versatile look, cover, say, write, check template makes it easy to use this engaging and effective spelling strategy.

What's included

• Ready-to-use templates that make spelling practice simple and effective
• Clear instructions to reinforce the ‘Look, say, cover, write, check' method
• Versatile spelling sheets in both landscape and portrait formats with blank space for weekly spelling lists

Available as a free PDF download, with an editable version accessible to subscribers.

What does ‘look, say, cover, write, check’ mean?

‘Look, say, cover, write, check’ is a proven five-step spelling strategy used in primary schools. The method breaks down the spelling process into manageable steps:

1. Look - The child carefully examines the spelling word
2. Say - They pronounce the word aloud, concentrating on its sounds
3. Cover - The word is covered or hidden from view
4. Write - The child attempts to write the word from memory
5. Check - They uncover the original word and compare their spelling, noting any errors

This multi-sensory approach engages different learning styles and helps reinforce correct spelling patterns through repetition and self-correction.

How to teach spelling using look, say, cover, write, check

To introduce the 'look, say, cover, write, check' method in your classroom, first model the process by displaying a word, pronouncing it clearly, covering it whilst writing it on the board, and checking against the original. Begin by providing pupils with our template and personalised word lists suitable for their spelling ability, guiding the whole class through the process before encouraging independent practice. Make this a consistent part of your literacy routine (perhaps during morning work or as a centre activity), celebrating improvements and tracking progress. This approach is particularly effective for weekly spelling tests, enabling children to practise consistently throughout the week.

What are some commonly misspelled words?

Many primary school children struggle with similar challenging words. These typically include:

• High-frequency words with irregular spelling patterns (their, they're, there)
• Words with silent letters (knight, know, write)
• Homophones (which/witch, where/wear)
• Words with double consonants (beginning, tomorrow, happiness)
• Words containing the schwa sound (different, separate)

Our template works brilliantly for targeting these troublesome words, allowing for repeated practice and visual reinforcement of correct spelling patterns.

How to use this resource

This versatile template can be used in multiple contexts. In the classroom, incorporate it into your regular spelling programme, literacy centres, or independent work. Send copies home for homework practice, empowering parents to support spelling development using the same consistent method taught in school. The sheet provides a structured approach for teaching assistants working with small groups or individual children who need additional spelling support. You can also use it for differentiated spelling lists, ensuring all children practise words appropriate to their ability level.

Looking for more like this?

Enhance your spelling instruction with these additional resources tailored to specific year groups and teaching approaches:

Year-specific spelling resources:

• Year 1 spelling words - Essential word lists and activities for early readers
• Year 2 spelling words - Age-appropriate spelling resources for KS1
• Year 3 spelling lists - Targeted resources for lower KS2
• Year 4 spelling word lists - Comprehensive spelling support for mid-KS2
• Year 5 spelling word lists - Advanced spelling challenges for upper KS2

Additional spelling support:

• Spelling strategies - Alternative approaches to reinforce spelling skills
• KS1 spelling resources - Comprehensive spelling teaching pack for KS1
• Year 3 spellings - Comprehensive spelling teaching pack for Year 3 teachers
• Year 4 spellings - Comprehensive spelling teaching pack for Year 4 teachers
• Year 5 spellings - Comprehensive spelling teaching pack for Year 5 teachers

These resources complement our look, cover, say, write, check template to create a comprehensive spelling programme that supports children at every stage of their spelling journey.