Welcome to The hfw Project!

High frequency words are just that: words occurring with high frequency in all genres of writing. It makes sense, then, for students to be able to read and write these words with both accuracy and automaticity. 

According to the Oxford English Corpus (OEC), the 100 most-commonly-occurring English words make up approximately half of the words we use. Imagine the power of helping beginning readers to develop automatic recognition of one in every two words they read! If a child can also automatically spell this bank of words, they can direct their focus more heavily on the content vocabulary and syntax needed to express their ideas in their writing.

The spelling of many high frequency words is typically misunderstood and mistaught. Teachers are aware of how important it is for students to be able to easily read and write these words, as they are found in almost every sentence. But since their spelling doesn’t generally fit the patterns we expect, the method most often used is rote practice and memorization, usually by using flashcards. While the spelling of many of these words is not straightforward, it can always be explained. In the explanation lies the growing understanding of English orthography. 

The hfw Project 2nd Edition has all the teacher resources organised in one book. Additionally, there are student study booklets that provide a place for children to engage in repeated practice reading and writing each word while consolidating their understanding.

HFW Celebrations

I bought the HFW Project yesterday and literally felt my heart jumping for joy! The two of your magnificent brains have created an ultimate resource. This is exactly what I needed…how did you know? You are amazing! The kids and I thank you both dearly!!!

-Mara Hockenhull

This resource is more elaborate and worthy than I even imagined.

-Mary Beth Steven

I have read through the guide and study booklet which arrived very promptly after ordering online (I am in the UK).  I am impressed by the clearly explained detail included in the guide about English orthography – I love the idea of including tales about words.   I look forward to seeing how to use the materials in the workshop. 

-Jenny Moody

✨GOLD--PURE GOLD✨ This word inquiry resource is a MUST HAVE for all teachers who work with high frequency words. Answering all the 'But how do I...' questions that teachers might have, this provides depth & understanding to an area most teachers don't know what to do with.

-Charlie Kraig