New spelling method introduced
"Une dictée réflexive par jour CE1-CE2," a new educational method aimed at helping students understand and apply spelling rules, has been published by Belin Education. The method, developed by a team of five teachers and trainers, builds on more than ten years of experience with the Twictée program.Research foundation
The approach is based on research by Catherine Brissaud and Danièle Cogis in spelling pedagogy, with support from Catherine Brissaud, an emeritus professor of language sciences at the University of Grenoble Alpes. It transforms traditional dictation into a time for reflection, discussion, and knowledge construction.Interactive learning tools
Two tools accompany the method: the Dicobalise, which allows categorization of spelling phenomena, and the Réflex, short explanatory messages written by students to justify their choices and build their own references. The method is structured in line with the 2025 French curriculum and includes 128 sessions divided into two annual pathways, designed for CE1 and CE2 classes.Structured learning sessions
Each module is organized over two weeks around eight ritualized sessions lasting 10 to 50 minutes. These sessions alternate between individual dictation, group negotiation, argued correction, spelling rituals, training, and the production of short writings. The goal is to allow students to apply spelling knowledge learned during dictation to their own written productions.Engaging cultural content
The activities are based on a variety of cultural universes, such as mythology, traditional tales, famous characters, poetry, music, and the landscapes of our planet, to give meaning to learning and enrich students' vocabulary. The book provides detailed instructions for each session, including objectives, instructions, points of caution, and examples of expected reasoning from students.Supporting resources
Downloadable materials, differentiation tools, and progress tracking are included. A mascot, Réflexo—an octopus symbolizing the connections between knowledge—accompanies students throughout their spelling discoveries. The method aims to change the role of dictation in the classroom: not only to learn to write correctly, but to understand why spelling rules exist, enabling students to write more independently.
