Re: Learning Spelling

LearnThatWord (LTW)

Traditional spelling practice

LTW reviews words with the student for long-term automaticity via our adaptive learning algorithm.
Our Pay-Per-Result concept is a visible expression of our unique focus on results.

Long-term learning needs multiple review points, spaced out over time. Traditional learning cycles are often abandoned prematurely and learning is lost. Long-term learning gain is hard to measure.

Words are presented in many different formats and contexts. Our Open Dictionary of English (ODE) offers multi-media and 100s of usage examples!

Rote practice with only limited context makes learning hard, and frustrates students and teachers.

Follow our modules or add your own lists:  By replacing the typical study-test approach with the more dynamic test-study concept, students go through sessions designed from their learning profile. This focuses all energy on words that need review.

Word list limitations:
Students on average know as much as 75% of their spelling list, but are still obliged to spend their time and attention "studying" them. Independent exploration and study is not encouraged.

Advanced students quickly proceed to a challenging level that is appropriate for them.

Top students who know the words already receive neither the benefit of an enlarged vocabulary nor the mental stimulation derived from a challenge.

Supports all skill levels and multiple learning styles: Students can listen to audio files, see the word used in live video clips, and review it as often as needed to fully absorb the word's spelling and meaning. LTW never grows impatient or makes the student feel bad!

Less proficient spellers, including EFL or those with a learning disability, lag behind their peers and need a lot more tutoring - a need that frequently goes unmet.

Those comfortable with words often forget how hard it can be when you struggle.

No cramming for tests, and no final exam: 

Since LearnThatWord adapts to each student and keeps track of progress, learning is a continuous and ever-intriguing experience—genuine learning for life!  Rewards, diplomas, and prizes keep motivation high! 

The "cramming" effect: If students study their word lists on the morning of a test, their test scores reflect only the power of their short-term memories, instead of actual comprehension and retention. A "surprise test" given a few days later reveals that many of the words have faded from students' memories. 

Providing unlimited free access, LTW is an ideal tool for students who don’t have live tutors available to them. Accessible anytime/anywhere via the Internet. No commuting or geographic limitations.

Students need live interaction/audio feedback to memorize the words. If their parents don’t have time or are not proficient in English, such interactive tutoring may not be available to them. 

Performance is transparent! LTW tutors words in quick sessions, whether it takes three or many more reviews! 

Considerable time, money, and energy produce only a minimal level of new learning. 

Just a few minutes of efficient LTW tutoring per week produce reliable results. We liberate teachers, parents and students from laborious, boring and frustrating spelling list chores. 

Teachers report that spelling word lists and related tasks take up on average 2,5 hours per week of their precious classroom time.