What Is a Dictation Sentence?

A dictation sentence is a statement read or said aloud for someone to type or write. Teachers often use dictation sentences in spelling, reading, writing, typing and foreign language classes.

In a class, the teacher reads a sentence aloud and asks the students to write or type what he said. Dictation sentences give teachers the opportunity to model good sentences for students to write and to check students’ spelling and punctuation skills. In foreign language classes, teachers dictate sentences in the language being taught to check for students’ progress in writing the new language. In typing classes, dictation sentences allow students to show their skills in speed and accuracy.