Using morphology to teach spelling and word knowledge
Discover the power of morphology to unlock spelling, vocabulary and comprehension. Learn how word structure, meaning and patterns can help students understand how English works and develop deeper, more transferable word knowledge.
Course Length
3 hours
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Access
365 days from enrolment
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Course Creator
Dr Katharyn Cullen
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About this course
English spelling often seems irregular, but it follows a logical system rooted in meaning, structure and history. In this practical course, Dr Katharyn Cullen explores morphology — the study of how words are formed and how they work — helping teachers move beyond surface-level spelling instruction.
Participants will develop a deeper understanding of how word structure supports spelling, vocabulary development and reading comprehension. Through practical classroom examples and evidence-informed strategies, you'll learn how to help students understand, spell and use words with greater confidence and precision.
Grounded in contemporary literacy research and framed through the lens of the four spelling knowledges — phonology, orthography, morphology and etymology — this course equips teachers and leaders with practical strategies for teaching spelling as a meaning-driven, equitable and engaging part of literacy instruction.
Looking for the complete learning experience?
This course forms part of Dr Katharyn Cullen's Four Spelling Knowledges Professional Learning Program. Enrol in the full program to explore phonology, orthography, morphology and etymology as an integrated approach to spelling and vocabulary instruction.
View the full program →
Learning outcomes
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Understand the complementary roles of phonology, orthography, morphology and etymology in building word knowledge.
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Explore how morphological instruction supports equity and improves outcomes for diverse learners.
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Develop morphological awareness through the study of base words, prefixes and suffixes.
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Identify word relationships and patterns that support spelling and vocabulary instruction.
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Understand why English spelling often prioritises meaning over sound and how to teach accordingly.
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Use morphemes as powerful tools for spelling instruction beyond phonics.
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Support vocabulary growth and reading comprehension through morphological analysis.
Who should participate?
This is essential professional learning for anyone looking to lead or refine spelling and vocabulary instruction across the primary years.
- Teachers Years F–8
- Literacy Leaders
- Heads of Curriculum
- Heads of Instruction
- Deputy and Assistant Principals with a passion for word knowledge
- EAL/D Coordinators
What else do I need to know?
- This PL course is self-paced and unmoderated.
- Participants have access for 365 days from registration.
- This course addresses AITSL standards 1.3.2, 2.1.2, 2.2.2, 2.5.2, 3.1.2, 3.2.2, 3.3.2 and 3.4.2.
- Group booking discounts apply for 6+ participants.
About your course creator
Dr Katharyn Cullen is an accomplished educational leader, innovator and curriculum specialist who holds a PhD in Using Linguistic Lenses to Improve Classroom Instruction. Her work focuses on helping educators understand the systems that underpin language, literacy and word knowledge.
She is the author of Using Linguistic Lenses to Journey into Words: A Teacher's Guide to Phonology, Orthography, Morphology and Etymology, a highly regarded resource for teachers and school leaders seeking to transform spelling and vocabulary instruction.
As a former Head of Junior School and Head of Campus (ELC–Year 6), Katharyn combines deep theoretical expertise with extensive leadership experience. Her practical, energetic and evidence-informed approach has helped schools strengthen teacher practice and improve student outcomes.
Cost of participation
| Registration Type |
Price |
| Member |
$105 |
| Non-Member |
$150 |
| PL Subscription School Member |
Included |
| Automatic group booking discount (6+) |
25% off each extra enrolment |
*all tickets must be booked at the same time for the discount to apply