SpellQuizzer

While we are still on the topic of spelling, {a topic in many households(home or traditionally schooled) that can lead to hours of conflict}, let me tell you about a new resource that was brought to my attention.
SpellQuizzer is a downloadable spelling software program created by a parent to help his own kids master the art of spelling.
It is designed to be used with any existing spelling curriculum or can be used to create a personalized one specified to meet your child's individual needs. Many spelling experts recommend keeping a list of children's most frequently misspelled words and incorporating those into their spelling lists. This program would make doing just that extremely easy. You could also create spelling and vocabulary lists straight from the literature you are already using, a favorite technique of Charlotte Mason.
This method is a personal favorite of mine as well.
The program itself is not flashy nor is it difficult for either parent or student to use. Many programs I have seen in the past get so mired down in the game elements that they become cacophonous, appealing to short attention spans and creating even shorter ones. The methodology of this program is rooted in simplicity and therein lies the fun. The quizzes are self-correcting and kids are rewarded for success with a cheering crowd.
Once you download the software, you have thirty days to preview it for free. Using it is a simple as typing in your spelling lists for the week. Older kids could even do this step on their own as a spellchecker is built in as a safeguard. The spellchecker is sensitive to both US and UK spellings. After the lists are typed in, the program prompts you to make a sound recording of a sentence using the spelling word. These are then used as prompts for the quizzes. I usually have my kids write out sentences for their spelling words each week, but for reluctant or beginning writers, this step could be a really useful first step in that process. Speaking in sentences is far less daunting than writing them and once spoken becomes far easier to write.
This is especially fun if kids have license to make silly sentences or to record them in silly voices. Most kids love to hear the sound of their own recorded voice.
Parents are not only allowed, but encouraged to be silly as well. To do this, you will need an external microphone for your PC.
Most people have a PC microphone that plugs into a USB port, but if you don't they are usually available at a retailer for about $10.
I believe this software will appeal to the visual, auditory and kinesthetic learner as well since you get an opportunity to see, hear and type out the words.
The program also features import and export options for sharing lists. This would be especially useful for teachers to send home lists for students to practice with at home or for homeschool groups to use.
I believe this is a great product to try out for that thirty day trial. If it is working for you than the $29.95 price tag will be worth it as well. If you don't see benefits than you have nothing to lose. After the thirty day trial is up, you must pay to receive the software license. If you don't, you simply lose access to the program. You are not required to give credit card information that will be billed at the end of the trial period. For those of us who have forgotten when a trial period ended and been charged for something we really didn't want will really appreciate this.