This 1997 edition has been expanded with a new phonics and spelling guide designed to help children ages 6 to 9 develop solid spelling and reading skills. Using sample words from the dictionary, the guide gives a detailed list of the common spellings of the most important vowel and consonant sounds. Spelling skills are further reinforced by sections on homo-nyms, compound words, and basic rules for spelling plurals and verb tenses. In addition, a five-step procedure enables children of all ages to learn how to study a word. Parents and children will find useful, clearly presented information to supplement classroom instruction.