Spelling is an essential component of PSLE English, and mastering it not only ensures accuracy but also builds confidence in writing. Despite consistent practice, certain words tend to trip students up, leading to common misspellings. This post highlights the Top 10 most commonly misspelt words in Primary English Spelling and provides tips to help students remember the correct versions.
1. Stationery vs. Stationary
Common Misspelling: "Stationary" instead of "Stationery"
Hint: Stationery refers to paper, pens, and office supplies, while stationary means standing still. Remember the ‘e’ in stationery stands for envelopes or erasers.
2. Embarrassed
Common Misspelling: "Embarased" or "Embarassed"
Hint: Always double the ‘r’ and ‘s’. A way to remember is that getting embarrassed often feels like a double whammy!
3. Inaccessible
Common Misspelling: "Inaccesible" or "Inaccessable"
Hint: Break it down: in- + access + -ible. Ensure you have two ‘c’s and remember it’s -ible, not -able.
4. Irresistible
Common Misspelling: "Irresistable" or "Irresitable"
Hint: Similar to inaccessible, the ending is -ible, not -able. Think of it this way: It’s too irresistible to use the wrong ending.
5. Accommodate
Common Misspelling: "Acomodate" or "Accomodate"
Hint: This word likes to accommodate a lot of letters—double ‘c’ and ‘m’. Remember: it’s big enough to have both!
6. Occurrence
Common Misspelling: "Ocurrence" or "Occurence"
Hint: The word has two ‘c’s and two ‘r’s. An easy way to remember: Important occurrences double their impact!
7. Dessert vs. Desert
Common Misspelling: "Desert" instead of "Dessert"
Hint: Dessert (the sweet treat) has two ‘s’s because you always want second servings. A desert is dry and only needs one ‘s’.
8. Separate
Common Misspelling: "Seperate"
Hint: Think of the word as being ‘separate’ from the ‘e’. Use the phrase “There’s a gap in separate” to remember the ‘a’.
9. Embarrass
Common Misspelling: "Embarass" or "Embarras"
Hint: Just like embarrassed, always double ‘r’ and ‘s’. Think of it as being doubly sure not to mess up!
10. Diarrhoea
Common Misspelling: "Diarrhea" or "Diarhoea"
Hint: This tricky word has an ‘rrh’ in the middle. Break it into parts: di + arrh + o-ea. Practice it slowly to get it right.
How to Improve Primary English Spelling
Mastering spelling in PSLE English takes practice and focus. Here are some tips to help:
Create Mnemonics: Use memory aids to make spelling fun and memorable.
Daily Practice: Regularly write out challenging words to reinforce correct spellings.
Break Words Down: Divide longer words into syllables or smaller parts.
Use Flashcards: Write the correct word on one side and the misspelling on the other to test yourself.
Read Regularly: Exposure to well-written material helps students recognize the correct spellings naturally.
Prepare Early for Spelling Success
Students preparing for PSLE English can benefit from focused support in their spelling and writing skills. During this year end holidays, consider enrolling in PSLE Headstart Workshops to develop essential skills, ensuring a smooth transition to PSLE year. Early preparation builds a strong foundation, reduces exam stress, and improves performance across all areas of language learning.
By mastering these commonly misspelt words and adopting effective spelling strategies, students can approach their PSLE English exams with confidence. With regular practice, these tricky words will no longer pose a challenge!
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