Three Great Spelling Rules: Doubling Rule

English is a complex language, especially for young students and those learning English as a second language. After teaching the Three Great Rules, students are equipped to read and spell a greater number of words. These rules also pair nicely with grammar instruction. The first rule in the Three Great rules, is the doubling rule. 

• Doubling Rule – This rule applies to 1-1-1 base words (one syllable words with one short vowel sound and one ending consonant sound).  When adding a vowel suffix to a 1-1-1 base word, double the final consonant prior to adding the suffix.  Do not double if the suffix begins with a consonant. 

          Example: sad + est  →  saddest,  sad + ness →  sadness

• A more advanced part of this rule is to double the final consonant in two syllable words where the second syllable has a short vowel with a single consonant, and is in a stressed syllable when adding a suffix that begins with a vowel: 

          Example: begin + er  →  beginner,  permit + ing →  permitting

Don’t forget to check out the Rules Poster, along with the songs and poems, in the Masters section of the IMSE’s Comprehensive OG Plus Training Manual.  These items will help teachers make these spelling rules engaging to support student mastery.  

You may also visit IMSE’s multi-sensory pins on Pinterest for additional support.