Oregon Educator Licensure Assessments (ORELA) Practice Exam

Which type of spelling is associated with advanced readers?

1. Emergent speller

2. Letter name-alphabetic spelling

3. Syllables and affixes spelling

4. Derivational relations spelling

The correct answer is: Derivational relations spelling

Derivational relations spelling is associated with advanced readers because it involves an understanding of word structure and the relationships between words, including their meanings and origins. At this stage, readers not only recognize and use complex spelling patterns, but they also have a firm grasp of how words can change form—whether through prefixes, suffixes, or other modifications—depending on their grammatical function and meaning. Advanced readers utilize their knowledge of etymology and word families to make educated guesses about the spelling of unfamiliar words. This ability to connect different words and their meanings reflects a higher level of phonological and morphological awareness, which is crucial for mastering advanced literacy skills. Emergent spellers, letter name-alphabetic spellers, and syllables and affixes spellers reflect earlier stages in spelling development. Emergent spellers are usually just beginning to understand the basics of letter-sound relationships, while letter name-alphabetic spellers are starting to form simple words. Syllables and affixes spelling represents an intermediate level where students start making use of syllable patterns and basic affixes, but they do not yet have the comprehensive understanding necessary for derivational relations spelling.