My kids use the computer for several school subjects, including Spanish, online math drills, spelling, and science. Unfortunately, since I'm so often working on the computer, there's not a lot of time available for the kids to do all their work. So to help alleviate this problem, we dug our 8-year-old Mac out of the attic and set it up in the school room.
While we can easily transfer the Spanish software to the kids' computer, and there's already a word processing program on which Jaden can do his science papers, we can no longer run Windows XP (which we need to run SpellQuizzer) and there isn't internet access either, which we need to do the online math drills.
So I had to do a little research to come up with alternatives for the math drills and spelling practice. I'm happy to say that I've very pleased with what we found.
Spelling Practice Software for Mac
We're now using Master Spell. It's similar to SpellQuizzer in that I can create my own spelling lists, typing in and then recording the audio for each of the words. Master Spell also comes with over 3,600 other built-in spelling words (with real voice audio recordings). Although my older two use their Wordly Wise words as their primary spelling lists, I'm also having them go through these included lists for even more practice. I'm still loving that they can do all their spelling practice independently and that it's so effective.
I especially like that the software allows for individual pupil accounts to be set up. Each child can go in and see which words they've mastered so far, and which they still need to work on. It's a really great program…and you can't beat the price!
Math Practice Software for Mac or PC
Math Practice offers more than just basic drills that Mathusee.com offers. There are timed drills, math squares, number sentences, and more. My girls are actually begging to work on it longer than the time I assign. I'd say it's a very good alternative for us.
What are your favorite free software downloads or online sources for spelling and math?
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Those look like great resources. I'm going to try them!
Emily Neal´s last blog ..Ahhhhh….
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Wow! I am really excited about trying these. We are all getting bored with Spelling City. Don't get me wrong, I think Spelling City is a great program, I would just like to have alternatives. Thanks!
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Hi – Thanks for the great resources. I am an avid co-schooler, and am always on the lookout for new things to try. My biggest frustration is spelling. The public school has basically stopped teaching spelling in my district! Ugh. I know another person made the comment that they are looking for a new program to try. We are using the All About Spelling program (with all 3 kids)…and I have been THRILLED.
(http://www.allaboutspelling.com/info4you)
It is easy to use, provides direct instruction, and the lessons can be done in short periods of time. It has been really great, because it can be used with students preK-adult…so I was able to jump in with my kids regardless of age/ability. They also have a support site for homeschoolers/educators where you can ask questions and trade tips.
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