Defining word study as the direct exploration and analysis of words--through phonics, vocabulary, and spelling instruction--the authors maintain that it is most effective when sound, spelling, and meaning are examined simultaneously. To that end, they offer thirty engaging activities divided into three sections: exploring word structure, examining word meanings, and extending word learning. In this way, word study becomes a fascinating part of the overarching language arts curriculum. Students learn all about words, inside and out, as they sort and spell, harvest and map, define and design, investigate and analyze, decode and use words--all toward the aim of becoming more effective and efficient readers and writers.