The Words Their Way Spelling Programme adopts a word study approach to spelling which moves away from the traditional system of spelling teaching, instead emphasising the value of teaching students processes and strategies for examining and thinking about the words they spell, read and write. An assessment is given to determine where to begin teaching.

Based on assessment results, students are given words to study in order to discover the common attributes. In this manner, students are actively constructing their own knowledge of spelling patterns. Students learn features by completing activities such as word sorting, word hunts, games and drawing and labelling. Students work individually, with partners, and in small groups to encourage co-operative learning.

NEPS has overseen the implementation of this new approach to spelling in a number of Dublin, Cork and Wexford schools and it has had very positive outcomes.