Investigating the spelling performance of Maltese children

Abstract

This research investigates Maltese word and non-word spelling abilities of Maltese children. A total of 82 typically developing students attending state and church schools in grades 4, 5 and 6 participated in the research. Spelling abilities were assessed using a Maltese word spelling test developed by Agius (2012) and a non-word spelling test developed to parallel the existing word spelling test for the purpose of this study. A comparison of the children’s performance in these tests was undertaken and discussed in terms of their grade and school-language. Reliability and correlation analyses of both tests were carried out. Spelling patterns were analyzed and discussed in light of the dual route model. Four distinctive categories of spelling patterns emerged in this study, which indicated the use of lexical and sub-lexical processes. Findings show that word and non-word spelling abilities are only significantly affected by grade and school-language.