AP Aussie Primary Academy

Foundation · Spelling · Free Printable

Spelling: Tricky Words

Practise high-frequency tricky words through sorting, writing, dictation, proofreading and a word search.

Spelling AC9EFLY13 Australian Curriculum-aligned

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Foundation Spelling Tricky Words Worksheet Preview
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Learning Intention

Students will identify, spell, and use high-frequency tricky words, and apply a strategy for remembering irregular spellings.

Australian Curriculum

Supports Foundation English – Phonic and word knowledge (AC9EFLY13).

Teacher Notes

Focus on the tricky part of each word. Say the word, look at the spelling, cover, write and check. Praise effort and correct letter formation.

Skills Practised

  • High-frequency tricky word recognition
  • Visual memory for irregular spellings
  • Dictation and proofreading
  • Word search and sentence writing

Learning Tricky Words

Some common words do not follow the spelling patterns children have already learned. These are often called tricky words because part of the word may need to be remembered.

Try This Strategy

  1. Look closely at the whole word.
  2. Say the sounds you know.
  3. Identify the unusual or unexpected part.
  4. Write the word, cover it, and try again.

Quick Self-Check

Read each tricky word in a sentence so you can check both spelling and meaning.