Spelling apps to practice

For students with lower scores in spelling

Spelling apps provide an engaging and interactive way for students to improve their spelling skills in the classroom. They offer tailored learning experiences, progress tracking, and gamified elements that motivate students to practise regularly. These apps are especially beneficial for students who struggle with traditional spelling methods, as they incorporate visual, auditory, and kinaesthetic approaches to suit diverse learning needs.

How Spelling Apps Help in School

Customised Learning: Teachers can create tailored word lists that address individual or group needs, ensuring targeted spelling practice.
Interactive Learning: The game-like features, animations, and rewards keep students motivated and engaged during lessons or independent study time.
Progress Monitoring: Teachers can track student performance, identify areas needing improvement, and adjust instruction accordingly.
Dyslexia Support: Many apps cater to students with dyslexia, offering structured, alternative strategies to reinforce spelling rules effectively.

Activity

Spelling shed

Offers engaging games and challenges to help students master spelling. Teachers can create custom word lists and track student progress.

Best for

Whole-class or small-group spelling sessions
Ages 11-12

Pros

Customisable word lists for differentiated learning.
Tracks student progress for easy monitoring.
Rewards and incentives to boost motivation.

Cons

Requires a subscription for full access.
Primarily focuses on spelling, without grammar support.

Activity

Sir Linkalot

Uses creative animations and mnemonics to teach tricky spellings.

Visual learners who benefit from a creative, engaging approach to spelling.
Ages 11-12
Visual and engaging methods make spelling memorable.
Effective for students struggling with traditional approaches.
Reinforces tricky words with fun animations.
Limited to common tricky words.
It may not appeal to students preferring traditional methods.

Activity

Nessy

Provides a range of interactive spelling games tailored to reinforce spelling rules and patterns.

Students requiring additional support, especially those with dyslexia.
Ages 11-12
Dyslexia-friendly and suited for diverse needs.
Reinforces key spelling rules in a fun, hands-on way.
Supports independent or guided practice.
Requires a subscription for full access.
Primarily focused on spelling with fewer features for other literacy skills.

Activity

Squeebles Spelling

Enables teachers to create custom spelling tests, allowing students to practise at their own pace.

Customised, student-specific spelling sessions.
Ages 11-12
Tailored tests to match individual learning needs.
Fun, interactive rewards system keeps students engaged.
Requires regular updates to word lists from teachers.
Limited to spelling without grammar or reading features.

Key takeaway

Spelling apps are a versatile addition to classroom learning, offering customisation and engagement that enhance traditional spelling instruction. Teachers can use these tools in whole-class settings, small groups, or individual interventions to address specific needs. Integrating these apps into the school day ensures students develop stronger spelling skills in an enjoyable, supportive environment.

Multi-sensory games (7-10)

Multi-sensory games (11-13)

Online Spelling Programmes for 1-to-1 Interventions

Spelling Tactics And Apps For The Classroom