So Many Sites and ...So Little Time! ********************************************************** Presented by: Cecily Bailey and Fritzi Kloecker http://ccsd.wikispaces.com/TechResources ********************************************************** WEBSITES Recommended by FD Teachers www.pbskids.org www.starfall.com www.kidspix.com www.abcya.com www.readingrockets.com www.sheppardsoftware.com/math.htm Book Flix “Book Flix” via PA Power Library: To access PA Power Library go to www.craw.org. Click on “schools” and scroll down to find your child’s school. Next, click on “book marks”. PA Power Library is the first item under bookmarks. Click on PA Power Library and scroll down to “Childrens’ resources” and click on. You will find Book Flix there. Click on and enjoy. How can I search for worthwhile apps?
New apps arrive on the market almost daily. Several websites have good lists and reviews. First, search the
websites below. Next, do a web search using the name of a specific app. Results may provide additional reviews
and movies of the app in action on www.youtube.com. Next, go to the developer’s web site for more
information and user reviews. Finally, go to the app store. Pay attention to the poor reviews as well as the
positive ones! Use your expertise to critically evaluate the content; many apps described as reinforcing
“phonemic awareness” actually dealt with phonics (letter-sound correspondences) or phonological awareness
(syllables and rhyming tasks).
Excellent lists and reviews can be found at these sites:
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www.commonsensemedia.org
childrenstech.com (also search KAPi Awards on this site)
www.about.com (search: ipad apps)
dyslexiahelp.umich.edu/tools/apps
a4cwsn.com (apps for children with special needs)
pinterest.com (search: educational ipad apps)
www.kirkusreviews.com (search: top book app)
www.parents-choice.org/allawards.cfm (Mobile app category)
www.apphalloffame.com (unfiltered content)
www.teachthought.com (iPad link)
www.ipadineducation.co.uk/iPad_in_Education/Literacy.html (British list)
Spelling Apps
Phonetically Regular, One-Syllable Words
Sound Beginnings by Preschool University
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/sound-beginnings/id541898864?mt=8
Spelling starts with phonemic awareness (sequencing speech sounds in oral words). This app matches pictures
at the beginning, middle and ends of consonant-vowel-consonant (CVC) words and by matching letters to
sounds. By touching the letter, the user can hear the associated sound (spoken by a child’s voice); touching
pictures allows the player to hear the name of the picture. Like all the apps by Preschool University, the images,
voice, and audio reinforcements are of the highest caliber.
ABC Spelling Magic Short Vowel Words by Preschool University
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/abc-spelling-magic-short-vowel/id429301553?mt=8
The Word Building game includes only the three letters needed; the Moveable Alphabet includes all letters.
Consonants are in red; vowels are in blue. Touching the letters reveals the sound. Touch the picture to hear the
word; then drag letters into the boxes under the picture to spell the word. Incorrect spellings won’t stick! The
letters of correctly spelled words blend into the word. Positive feedback is a short snippet of classical music!
ABC Spelling Magic 2 Consonant Blends by Preschool University
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/abc-spelling-magic-2-consonant/id438133737?mt=8
Following the same format as ABC Spelling Magic, Spelling Magic 2 focuses on beginning and ending
consonant blends and double letter spellings (e.g., ff, ll, ss). Touching the picture reveals the oral word;
touching the spaces below the picture reveals the sounds; touching the letters reveals the corresponding sounds.
I was gratified to discover that both letters appeared simultaneously in words with final doubled letters (e.g., the
2 l in yell). The format is identical in all Spelling Magic apps by Preschool University. My only criticism is the
name of the developer. These apps are good for older learners, too!
ABC Spelling Magic 4 Silent Final e by Preschool University
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/abc-spelling-magic-4-silent/id598794973?mt=8
In the Short/Long Vowel game, the CVC picture and word appear first (e.g., cap). When the player drags the
final silent e into place, the picture changes (cape) and the corresponding word is spoken.
ABC PocketPhonics: by Apps in My Pocket Ltd
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/abc-pocketphonics-letter-sounds/id299342927?mt=8
This app combines handwriting practice and spelling individual letters as well as letter combinations, or
digraphs (e.g., th, ea). This app reinforces spellings by using the target spelling-sound correspondence to spell
spoken words. It includes a well-organized list of consonant and vowel digraphs. It allows the adult to enter
multiple names to customize practice and monitor progress. The upgrade includes an intelligent tutor that
monitors progress and focuses games on individual needs. This app could be improved with more inspiring
feedback and rewards, but educationally, it is very sound.
Phonetically Regular, Two-Syllable Words
ABC Spelling Magic 3 by Preschool University
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/abc-spelling-magic-3-multiple/id446294881?mt=8
This app builds two-syllable words with 4 – 5 letters. Most are closed syllables, but a few examples have open
syllables.
High Frequency (a.k.a. “sight”) words
English Words 1-300: Everyone Learns by Teacher Created Materials ($8.99)
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/english-words-1-300-everyone/id659204648?mt=8
This app offers seven interactive games and four learning activities designed to read and spell 300 of the most
common high frequency words. Touch the robot to hear the word; then write the word below. The player also
can record his/her own voice. The player must complete the set of five words to access the related, very
engaging games. Tap the robot to hear the word clearly pronounced. Then tap the check at the end of the word
to hear the word pronounced and spelled. One can tap the letters to hear the letter names or words pronounced.
Instant feedback will not let you make a mistake. At any time, the player can easily access oral instructions and
tap the words to hear them pronounced. Images and sound are professionally produced.
For Mature Spellers
Spel It Rite Pro by Todor Dimitrov
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/spel-it-rite-pro/id305759482?mt=8
Note: This is listed under iPhone apps, but can be played on an iPad.
The objective is to select the correctly spelled word from two choices. The word is presented orally (requires an
internet connection). Instant feedback quickly corrects errors. One can review the spelling, pronunciation,
definition, and synonym of missed words.
Customized Word Lists
A+ Spelling Test by Innovative Mobile Apps
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/a+-spelling-test/id501211008?mt=8
The adult must type and record spelling lists. Mature learners can type in their own lists. This takes very little
time and effort with prepared lists. The app includes several engaging activities; a test tracks progress, and
reports can be emailed. You only have to enter each email address once.
3 SpellingCity by SpellingCity
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/spellingcity/id538407602?mt=8
Although the provided word lists are not particularly useful for increasing spelling achievement, one can easily
create customized lists to suit any purpose. This is particularly useful for students learning to spell advanced
words. On a PC, the adult creates an account at www.vocabularyspellingcity.com. Then one can easily create a
new list with a specific focus. After the words are entered, one selects definitions and sentences or creates
original text. Once done, users can play a game on the iPad or computer. Appealing bonuses are alphabetizing
the lists and handwriting features! One can create a PDF document of the word list in manuscript, D’Nealian,
Cursive, or American Sign Language, with a choice of sizes.
Games to Boost Math Skills
Subitize Tree
Developer: Doodle Smith Ink
Website: www.doodlesmithink.com
This app provides subitizing practice using a variety of representations (e.g., dominoes, dice, fingers on hands,
and playing cards). Players can choose a specific representation to practice, change the amount of time the
images are displayed, and select the range of numbers used. Settings are intuitive and easy to use. The goal is
for players to correctly subitize in order to free captive animals. One animal is freed for every four correct
responses. Incorrect responses signal display of the correct response. 2
ModMath
Developer: Division of Labor
Website: www.modmath.com
This free app provides virtual graph paper and a keyboard with numbers and math operation symbols for laying
out equations and problems in all four operations with whole numbers and fractions. Intuitive settings enable
contrasting rows and/or columns. After solving the problems, the user can save, print, and email completed
worksheets.
Dexteria Dots—Get in Touch with Math
Website: www.dexteria.net
This is an intuitive math game that teaches the concepts of number sense, addition, subtraction, greater-than (>),
and less-than (<). The user separates or combines dots to produce a value. For beginners, larger dots represent
greater values, and smaller dots represent smaller values. There are three main options for gameplay, and each
includes four levels. All levels have time limits. In addition, bonus dots are awarded, and most challenges have
multiple solutions.
Ten Frame Fill
Developers: Mike Egan and Randy Hengst
Website: www.classroomfocusedsoftware.com
This app is designed to improve addition and subtraction skills in the family of 10. In this app, a ten frame is
shown with tokens. The player is shown an addition problem and a complementary subtraction problem and
asked, "How many more are needed to make 10?" The players can drag tokens of another color or touch the
number for the correct response.
Word Problems
Developers: Mike Egan and Randy Hengst
Website: www.classroomfocusedsoftware.com
This app provides practice in simple math word problems requiring addition and subtraction with answers of 10
or less. The user can solve one of three types of equations. The user has the option to use virtual manipulatives
to solve the problem and the option to show the number sentence.
4 X-tra Math.com
Website: www.xtramath.com
This free website helps users automatize computation skills in the four operations for problems related to
decimals and fractions. Timed activities challenge the user to respond in at least ten seconds, but optimally in
three seconds or less, with immediate feedback for slow or incorrect responses. Progress-monitoring graphs
show responses of ten seconds, three seconds, and areas that require more practice.
CoolMath4Kids.com
Website: www.coolmath4kids.com
This free website calls itself an "amusement park" for math. It features kid-friendly information and engaging
games using the four basic operations plus geometry art. The instructions require reading skills, and the visual
layout may be distracting for some students. Tabs for both parents and teachers provide guidance, instructions,
and options to select targeted activities. A related website for practicing pre-algebra and higher-level math
is CoolMath (described below).
CoolMath
Website: www.coolmath.com
This free website is an extension of CoolMath4Kids (described above) that provides engaging games and
information related to advanced math (e.g., pre-algebra, algebra, trigonometry, calculus), geometry art, and
science. Tabs for both parents and teachers provide guidance, instructions, and options to select targeted
activities.
Word Games and Logic Puzzles
SpellGrid by Freshlogo
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/spell-grid-swipe-letters-spell/id603911137?mt=8
This app has two game modes: Spell Grid and Spell and Fill. In Spell Grid mode, the object is to score 25 points
by spelling as many words as possible using adjacent letters in a 3 x 3 grid. Hint Letters (which must be
unlocked) help you to complete the grid for a 50-point bonus. The Hint Letters provide scaffolding help— a
combination of letters and blank lines arranged by three-, four-, five-, and six-letter words. The built-in
dictionary helps increase spelling and vocabulary skills. The Spell & Fill mode uses a 5 x 5 grid. The object is
to find as many words as you can before you get stuck. Once you spell a word, the used letters disappear and
new ones will fill the grid.
Word Solitaire by Candywriter
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/word-solitaire-hd-relaxing/id393405638?mt=8
This is just like traditional solitaire, but the cards are letters! The object is to rearrange the cards so that one uses
all of the letters to spell words. Even novice spellers will have success with two- and three-letter words. The
game offers feedback by rejecting illegal letter sequences. You only can drag letters onto other letters that form
sequences that will form real words! Intermediate and advanced players are motivated to gain additional points
by forming longer words—compound words, multisyllabic words, or adding suffixes will increase scores! A
tutorial guides you through the game strategy the first time you play.
SpellTower by Zach Gage
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/spelltower/id476500832?mt=8
Spell Tower encourages the player to use longer words for more points. Tap adjacent letters to form words and
eliminate tiles. It has five challenging modes. At the conclusion of the game, you can see the list of words you
created and access dictionary entries, including parts of speech and etymology (word origin).
Letris 3: Word puzzle game by Ivanovich Games
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/letris-2-word-puzzle-game/id478540241?mt=8
5 This works like the familiar Tetris game, but with seven different languages! You can even play in two different
languages at once! Letter blocks fall from the top of the screen. Your task is to use these to build words. The
letters do not have to be adjacent. You can see the list of words typed at the end of the game; tap to access the
definition and related web sites. (Must have internet access.) Modes: one player, split screen to play with a
friend, or online through the game center. One can play alone or with a partner in split screen mode. Word lists
display at the conclusion of the game.
Spellvetica by CHUDCHUD INDUSTRIES
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/spellvetica/id545380384?mt=8
Letter tiles fall down, and you must position them before they reach the top. Clear tiles by spelling words and
earning points. It has a single or dual-user game option. Tap adjacent letters to form words. Your statistics
show, with your highest-point word. It encourages users to form longer words to earn more points.
Chess Pro - with coach by Christophe Théron ($9.99)
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/chess-pro-with-coach/id423198259
The game of chess has a well-deserved reputation for helping people as young as nine to develop strategicthinking skills and anticipate consequences. It also cultivates spatial analysis and non-verbal reasoning ability.
This app is a chess board with built-in tutorial options. When one plays against a personal trainer, the virtual
coach shows you the four best moves a Grandmaster would pick, along with upcoming threats. The training
feature includes 52 difficulty levels, from complete beginner to world champion. The rules of chess are included
and easily accessible for reference. If you play an illegal move, Chess Pro tells you why the move is not
allowed.
TanZen HD Lite - Relaxing tangram puzzles by Little White Bear Studios, LLC
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/tanzen-hd-lite-relaxing-tangram/id369014729?mt=8
Tangrams are a set of seven shapes cut from a single square. To solve the puzzles, the tangram shapes must be
rotated and arranged to fit the prepared graphic shape. Although there are many tangram apps available, this one
starts with a visual tutorial that models how to play; directions and the tutorial are easily accessible. Hints are
available if needed. The lite version of this app contains 45 puzzles and has ads at the top of the screen; the full
version has over 500 puzzles. This app keeps track of the preferences and accomplishments of one to three
players.
Montezuma Puzzle and Montezuma Puzzle 2 by ECO Pawel Jarosz
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/montezuma-puzzle-2/id616008956
This is a slightly different version of a tangram app.
Pushy by medienwerkstatt
https://itunes.apple.com/US/app/id322110989?mt=8
Recipient of the "Best Mobile App for Kids" award (2012) and #1 Top Strategy Game in App Store 2010, this
app challenges players of all ages to push Pushy home. Here's the catch. You must determine, through trial and
error, how the different elements of the puzzle operate, and what tasks need to be done. For example, Pushy
must move obstacles and dump a red ball into a red hole. Prepare for the unexpected! After completing all
relevant tasks, move Pushy to his home. If you solved everything correctly, you will advance to the next level!
Where's My Water? by Disney
https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/wheres-my-water/id449735650
Using a combination of physics and logic, the user must direct the “water” through the sand (not the stone) to
the alligator’s shower faucet, all the while avoiding “acid,” propagating “algae,” and other hazards. Sometimes
the water must be routed through other pipes or interact with “machines” to open up a route to the shower.
6 References
Cheesman, E. (2014, August 1). Dr. Cheesman’s App Chat: Games to Boost Math Skills. Retrieved October 28,
2014 from http://www.interdys.org/August2014_AppChat.htm
Cheesman, E. (2013, August 1). Dr. Cheesman's App Chat: Spelling. Retrieved October 28, 2014, from
http://www.interdys.org/CheesmanAppChat.htm
Cheesman, E. (2013, December 1). Dr. Cheesman's App Chat: Word Games and Logic Puzzles. Retrieved
October 28, 2014, from http://www.interdys.org/CheesmanAppChat122013.htm
Cheesman, E. (2014, April 1). Dr. Cheesman’s App Chat: Vocabulary & Morphology. Retrieved October 28,
2014.
Cheesman, E. (2013, February 15). iPad Apps for Literacy Instruction. Retrieved October 28, 2014, from
http://www.interdys.org/iPadAppsforLiteracyInstruction.htm
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