We’ve tried a new spelling program that is unique and quite versatile called SpellQuizzer.  I must say that it is unique for me, as I’ve never seen or used a software spelling program.  This program is versatile because you can input the words your child needs to learn from a spelling book, unit study or foreign language.  And this isn’t just for spelling; it works for vocabulary, too!

You enter your child’s words by simply typing them in and also by saying them into a microphone, included in many computers today or purchased inexpensively from a department store.  You can also type in a description or definition, which makes a great vocabulary test! 

I like that the child gets immediate feedback:  if the word is correct, they pass on to the next word; if incorrect, both the correct and incorrect spelling are shown to the child.  At the end of that list, the child is asked if they’d like to try the missed words again. The negative aspect here is that I wish the kids could work more independently.  If the child closes the program after taking the test, I haven’t figured out a way that the parent can retrieve that “test” to see how the child performed or to know which words they're struggling with.

I had no problems with downloading this program.  I like that you do not have to be online for the student to practice.  You purchase the program for $29.95, 100% satisfaction guaranteed, and you own it for life, also receiving free upgrades when available.

The website is full of information.  There are downloadable spelling lists available with more to come in the future; there are holiday themed lists, sample lists for each grade, and frequently misspelled words by grade.  They also offer links to other educational sites.  I did feel that this program is aimed at public school kids more than homeschoolers and would like to see more positive examples on their homepage instead of “end the nightly spelling practice battles” and that typing your spellings words is less of a chore than writing them out by hand.  This really goes against how I’m teaching my children to respond to work.

I like the versatility of SpellQuizzer, and I know we’ll come back to it for vocabulary practice if not for regular spelling quizzes.  Download the free 30-day trial to see if this spelling program works for your family.  Check out what other reviewers think about SpellQuizzer at TOS Homeschool Crew.

Thanks for stopping by,

Danielle

• Post A Comment! • Send to a Friend!