Computerized Reading Programs

Hi, Debbie,

It would help to know what you are using to teach the kids reading. Are you using an Orton-Gillingham based program or something else? The computer training needs to complement what you are teaching, preferably.

Janis

I am using the Corrective Reading Series put out by SRA. It is not my chose, but what the district is using. I havent used it long enough to decide how I feel about it.

I don’t know too much about it either, but it’s likely better than what some districts use!

Some people like the Lexia software. It follows Orton-Gillingham format.

http://www.lexialearning.com/

I use Earobics for younger children and there is a level for adolescents and adults.

http://www.earobics.com/

Janis

REad

You may want to investigate Start to Finish books at
www.donjohnston.com

These books come with CD, casette and paperback book, and begin at the 2nd grade level. Topics are highly suitable for older students. With the multiple formats of materials, students can follow along on the computer, read on the computer and click unknown words, read along with the casette OR read independently. Each chapter has comprehension questions.

That said, the MOST important thing is to determine your purpose. The software will not teach reading, but it will provide guided practice.

How are you accomodating the reading issues for these high school students? Remediation is essential in combination with accomodations since these students must have access to the curriculum according to federal law. Do you use text to speech software or Kurzweil or WYNN software? Students LOVE these programs because they remove the obstacles to learning in the presence of significant reading difficulties.

:? Why do you think that a high school student would think that if you started teaching him how to read using a program that starts from the beginning, if necessary, would feel anything except relieved and happy? I have been teaching reading at a middle and high school level for the past 7 years, removing accommodations and even exiting from sped with no complaints from my students. They end up passing their state tests and making plans for college. I use Phono-Graphix and various other programs and explain that I am going to teach them skills that they should have had and didn’t. I explain that teaching them to read may seem childish but so would teaching an older student the basics of any sport. I explain that reading is just like sports; it involves skills and practice to become better at it. This works wonders and everyone learns how to read. :)

Hi- Does anyone have information about a reading/spelling program for the computer that is Orton or Phonographix based? I’m looking for a program that emphasizes phonemic awareness.
Thanks.
Renée

My best advice to you is to find books at the student’s level that they want to read. The best way to improve reading is to read. I would also tell you to buy the book Reading Reflex and then teach them to read. I had students make 4 years growth last year because of using these methods. They work! Your students need effective reading instruction and they can only get practice from a computer.
Nan

Have you checked out www.soundreading.com ? They have free demos. I actaully have the brochure right here and called today but of course no answer on Saturday. I too would like some computer games to use while I work with the others. Many students love the computer. These look good but my demo is at school and I’ll never find after the move last year. I’d call and ask for Bruce, he will help you.

If you have a student at the Kinder or first grade level try www.starfall.com but it gets too babyish quickly with anyone older than that in my opinion.

I’m hoping someone else posts as I am looking too.

If you need a handwriting program on the computer check out www.peterson-handwriting.com. I hear very good things about this and just ordered it.

Michelle AZ