[senco-forum] Alternatives to Wordshark

I have some e learning credits to spend.... I want

From: Kate Barnes <kate.senrab at btinternet.com>
> I have some e learning credits to spend.... I want
> something that does a  similair job to wordshark, phonic
> progression and  high frequency words  practice.SEN kids
> in mainstream primary.  I like wordshark, just seems a 
> good idea to have variety. Kate

I have recently been looking at exactly the same question.
We too have 'Wordshark' but want something more.

I looked at several different programmes (not all computer
based): starspell, lexia, launch the lifeboat,
accelread/accelewrite and several others.

I have decided to pursue 'Nessy Learning System'. There are
several reasons but one main one was the look of it. It
sounds trivial but to the students I teach it matters. A
lot.

Compared to Nessy the other programmes look sooo dated (a
bit like how a PC looks like when compared to a Mac). Nessy
looks more lively and 21st century.

OK this might not be such an issue for primary aged kids but
it will be for some.

Another reason was the variety Nessy seems to offer. Other
programmes seem to have set approaches. Nessy seems to use
lots of different styles and techniques. Yes it has computer
games but it has so much more. Huge banks of classroom
activities, games, flashcards, worksheets. The admin seems
very straight forward too.

Admitedly I haven't purchased or used Nessy yet. However
looking at the demo it seems to fit what I was looking for.
A stuctured programme going from ages 5-16 which has lots of
variety, looks good and is easy to administer.

Hope this helps.

Mark

--
Mark Norwood
www.avssc.org
"How can one not be fond of something that the Daily Mail
despises?" Stephen Fry

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