Wordshark

 Wordshark combines the excitement of computer games with learning to read and spell

The games and the selection of pre-recorded words have been specifically structured to assist those with specific learning difficulties (Dyslexia). The variety of games, concepts and words make Wordshark suitable for use in both primary and secondary schools as well as for home use, across all ages.

Wordshark is a fun way for students to do the repetitive exercises that are necessary to develop the automaticity which underlies reading and spelling.

Wordshark can be used by any number of children on 1 computer.  They will each be able to work at their own level and keep their personal settings and a record of their progress.

It can either be used directly to support what is being learnt in school or used independently to gain confidence in reading and spelling.

Parents should always follow the progress of their children and encourage them to try a variety of games using age-appropriate wordlists.

There is a special chapter in the manual which sets out ideas for using the program at home.

It is recommended that the sessions are short but frequent as this not only maintains the child’s interest but gives the necessary practice needed for success.

There are no hard and fast rules, but generally, three or four short sessions a week (about 10-15 minutes each) seem to work really well to achieve significant gains.

It is good to be aware that some children need to go over what seems to be very basic work before moving on in order to make real progress. Equally, some children need to be encouraged to move on.

Wordshark can be networked across the school network so that it is available for any student on any computer.

Student results are then stored on the server and are available to teachers. Results can be used to monitor student's progress.

10 or more computers can be networked.