Spelling Words by Grade
Free weekly spelling word lists for Grades 1-3 with downloadable PDF worksheets and spelling test templates
Grade 1 Spelling Words
Grade 1 spelling words focus on CVC patterns, common sight words, and simple word families. These 180 words are organized into 18 weekly lists of 10 words each, building from the simplest patterns to slightly more complex ones throughout the school year.
Download the complete Grade 1 spelling list or the weekly test template
Grade 2 Spelling Words
Grade 2 spelling words introduce blends, digraphs, long vowel patterns, and common suffixes. These 180 words are organized into 18 weekly lists of 10 words each, progressively building on the phonics skills learned in Grade 1.
Download the complete Grade 2 spelling list or the weekly test template
Grade 3 Spelling Words
Grade 3 spelling words cover more advanced patterns including vowel teams, prefixes, suffixes, silent letters, and multisyllable words. These 180 words are organized into 18 weekly lists of 10 words each, preparing students for more complex reading and writing.
Download the complete Grade 3 spelling list or the weekly test template
Weekly Spelling Test Template
Use this blank spelling test template for your weekly spelling tests. Print it out and have your child or student write each word as you say it aloud. There are spaces for 10 words, the student's name, date, and grade.
Print blank test templates for weekly spelling practice
Spelling Test Preview
Name: __________________ Date: __________________ Grade: _____
How to Give the Test
Say the word clearly, use it in a sentence, then say the word again. Give students 10-15 seconds per word. Repeat each word if needed, but avoid over-enunciating individual sounds.
Grading the Test
Each word is worth 10 points for a total of 100. Mark incorrect letters to help students see their specific mistakes. Celebrate improvement, not just perfect scores.
Spelling Study Tips
Help your child or students master their weekly spelling words with these proven study strategies.
Look, Say, Cover, Write, Check
Look at the word carefully, say it aloud, cover it up, write it from memory, then check your spelling. This classic method builds visual memory of correct spelling patterns.
Rainbow Writing
Write each spelling word three times, each time in a different color. This multi-sensory approach engages visual memory and makes practice feel like an art activity.
Spelling Stairs
Write each word by building it letter by letter in a staircase pattern. For "happy": h, ha, hap, happ, happy. This method helps children pay attention to each letter in order.
Practice in Context
Have children write a sentence using each spelling word. Using words in context strengthens understanding and creates stronger memory connections than isolated practice.
Spread Practice Across the Week
Study a few words each day rather than cramming the night before. Monday: introduce words. Tuesday-Thursday: practice 5-10 minutes. Friday: test day. Short daily sessions beat one long session.
Use Word Patterns
Group spelling words by patterns (same ending, same vowel sound, same prefix). When children notice patterns, they can apply rules to spell new words they haven't studied yet.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many spelling words should kids learn per week?
For Grades 1-3, 10 words per week is the recommended amount. This is enough to be challenging without being overwhelming. Some advanced students may handle 12-15 words, while struggling spellers may benefit from focusing on just 5-8 words with more practice time per word.
How are the spelling lists organized?
Each grade has 18 weekly lists of 10 words, organized from simpler to more complex patterns. Grade 1 starts with basic CVC words and sight words. Grade 2 introduces blends, digraphs, and long vowels. Grade 3 covers prefixes, suffixes, silent letters, and multisyllable words. Each week builds on previously learned skills.
When should I give the weekly spelling test?
Most teachers and homeschool families introduce new words on Monday and give the test on Friday. This allows 4 days of practice. Introduce all 10 words at the start of the week, practice a few minutes each day using different methods (writing, spelling aloud, games), and test at the end of the week.
What if my child is struggling with the words for their grade?
It is perfectly fine to use lists from a lower grade level. The goal is building confidence and mastery, not matching a grade label. If Grade 2 words are too hard, use Grade 1 lists until your child consistently scores 80% or higher, then move up. Progress matters more than grade-level labels.
How do I use the spelling test template?
Download and print the blank test template. Say each word clearly, use it in a sentence, then repeat the word. Give the child about 15 seconds per word. After all 10 words, review together. The template includes spaces for name, date, and grade, making it easy to track progress over time.
Can I use these lists for homeschooling?
Absolutely. These lists are designed for both classroom and homeschool use. The weekly structure gives homeschool families a simple, ready-made spelling curriculum. Download the PDF lists and test templates, and follow the Monday-to-Friday study schedule. You can adjust the pace to match your child's needs.