Question: My second-grader's teacher gives the words so rapidly on spelling tests that he can't finish writing one before she gives the next one. The teacher won't slow down, so he's missing lots of words. What can be done? - Too Slow Speller
Answer: Spelling experts generally agree that words should be given at a fairly brisk pace, with teachers adjusting their speed for word length and difficulty. Hopefully, this is what is happening in your son's classroom.
Your son could be having problems because he can't automatically recall how letters are formed. In this case, more practice writing the letters is necessary. It would also be helpful for him to have an alphabet on his desk to glance at when he is uncertain about the formation of a letter.
The possibility that your son hasn't truly mastered the spelling of all the test words also exists. Giving him more frequent practice tests each week should improve his knowledge of how to spell the words, as well as his writing speed. Try to have the practice tests be as much like the real tests as possible.
Observe your son closely as you give him practice spelling tests to see exactly why he is having problems. Then work with his teacher to help him overcome them.