I would like to set up a reading computer lab in a high school. What different kinds of software is out there that has shown success in developing the various strategies towards reading, i.e. phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, comprehension, word recognition strategies, writing? I am not looking for just one program that catches all, but many different programs that would address the many different problems each student possesses. If you could tell me the name of the program and your success with it that would be helpful. Also, realize that even at high school, there are numerous students still reading at the first grade, kindergarten level.
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One of my favorites is LExia Learning’s Strategies for Older STudents — it focuses on the phonemic awareness & phonics & accuracy end. I’ve heard good things about Draft Builder and INspiration as a combination for writing; there are also a *lot* of features in good ol’ MIcrosoft WOrd (including being able to put in auditory comments in someone’s drafts) that come in handy. Programs like TextHELP! can help students hear what they’ve written and spell better. Great LEaps addresses fluency…
…. BUT BUT BUT BUT BUT — the software doesn’t teach.
Teachers teach.
AND the teachers need to learn HOW to USE the software to teach. There are some good books out with ways to use Inspiration, etc — but you gotta get ‘em and have time to figure out what you’re going to do with them.
THere are an awful lot of computer labs out there sitting there getting obsolete when a teacher’s salary could have been a better investment — or one fewer computer and some expert guidance.
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