We don’t often focus on just spelling — and boy, does it show! My children love to write stories and then have a favorite grown-up read it. It is often difficult due to the invented spellings. Despite using copywork to model good spelling, punctuation, etc. something more is needed for some of them. Thankfully, Vocabulary Spelling City is an easy “something more” to use.
Spelling City has been around awhile as an on-line spelling practice/test site. Not too exciting, but free. We have checked them out a few times over the years, but never stuck with it. Now, there is much more to keep my children’s interest and they are getting much more than spelling practice, too. The premium option adds so much more, and for a great price for families ($29.99/year for up to 5 children).
My favorite option is the ability to make my own list. As our new school year gets underway, we will be working with lists from our science readings (and maybe more). For our beginning reader, I like to use the already-done-for-me sight word lists. I also love that they are not learning only the spelling, but meanings, too. The practice with the lists as vocabulary words is great!
My children’s favorite part is all the games. There are flashcard options and traditional spelling tests as well. With the premium upgrade, I can keep track of their activity, how well they are doing and make adjustments to what they do when they sign in (each child has their own log-in so their work can be customized to what their needs are). There are many additions to the premium membership (even writing practice – using those spelling/vocabulary words in context).
I think the only thing we don’t like is trying to share one computer amongst everyone. Everyone likes to gather around and cheer on their sibling. I have to figure out something to keep the others occupied in the other room – but not too fun so the one at the computer doesn’t feel left-out. As much as I resist using online programs, my children do enjoy them and this one is effective. How can I not let them?
To check out how other families are using Vocabulary Spelling City, start at the Crew blog post.
