FOX 13 Highlights Reading Clinic’s Research-Based Approach to Spelling

University of Utah Reading Clinic Director Kelly Patrick recently appeared on FOX 13’s Good Day Utah to discuss a key message in literacy instruction: strong spelling skills are built through understanding how language works, not through memorization alone. In the segment, Patrick explained that reading and spelling are closely connected and should be taught in ways that help students see those connections clearly.

Patrick noted that reading and spelling actively reinforce one another, emphasizing that they are “very related tasks that actually support each other.” She explained that children benefit from learning how written symbols connect to sounds and meaning, helping them build a stronger understanding of words and the structure of language.

Her appearance also highlighted the work of the University of Utah Reading Clinic, part of the College of Education. The clinic serves caregivers, students, and educators through literacy assessment, intervention, and professional learning grounded in research-based reading instruction.

Located in Murray, the clinic continues to support literacy development for students and families across Utah while helping translate evidence-based practices into meaningful educational support.

Read the full FOX 13 story here.