Starspell 2.4

(formerly called Starspell 2001)

There is a spoken sentence to give a context for every single word in the program. There are extensive word-lists for each term of the Literacy Hour Framework. Key Stages 3 and 4 have not been forgotten: the National Curriculum subject word-lists are a valuable resource for both subject teachers and SEN specialists. Other features include Onset and Rime lists, extra games, enhanced list editing and record-keeping. Can print out worksheets for further practice.

If you are learning to spell, Starspell 2.4 can help. Learning spelling may seem a complicated and daunting task because of the variety of skills involved. Indeed, spelling needs more than a computer program for thorough learning. Starspell, however, takes you a long way in the right direction for spelling success. It will form an invaluable and fulfilling part of a comprehensive approach to spelling.

Its learning activities are based on the well-tried Look-Cover-Write-Check approach to spelling, with the advantage that the words are spoken (by a human voice). They are set in a framework which provides for the development of knowledge about sounds and letters.

Starspell 2.4 uses its own list of words, prepared by Margaret Hughes, who has specialised in literacy development at all levels. It draws on the latest ideas about the learning of spelling. A major strength is the set of spelling lists, which impart unique order to English spelling, and provide a graded progression for the learner. You can record your own spelling lists as well.

With Starspell 2.4 you will learn:

• Ways to use Starspell
• The purpose behind each step in the basic Starspell learning activity
• When and why to customise the learning activity
• Why teach spelling?
• Ingredients of a good spelling programme
  • The first ingredient: provision for individual learning
  • The second ingredient: working along with a writing curriculum
  • The third ingredient: balancing approaches
  • The fourth ingredient: organisation
  • The fifth ingredient: relevance
• About the contents of the lists

"Starspell is an excellent tool for reinforcing spelling patterns in an interesting way for dyslexic pupils at all stages, from early cvc patterns to complex subject specific vocabulary for GCSE and beyond. I would highly recommend it to fellow practitioners."
Ann Howarth, Dyslexia Institute trained teacher/secondary SENCO, Essex