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 Although
cartoon graphics are featured, this set of 2 CD-ROMs has a rather
strict approach to learning. Phonics Excelerator includes two
programs: Vowel Games and Consonant Games.
Vowel Games is
divided into two main learning sections: one introduces and drills
short vowel sounds, and the other focuses on long vowel sounds.
Kids watch as short words are shown onscreen, and as they roll
their cursor over the letters in the word, the letters are sounded
out. They play games after this tutorial.
Consonant
Games focuses, of course, on consonant letter sounds. Letters that
make more than one sound (like "g" and "c")
are taught as well.
The reward system in these
programs may raise some parents' eyebrows. It's somewhat strict
for the targeted age group. Kids work towards becoming Phonics
Superstars, and even one mistake in an exercise will cost them
Gold. They can go back and correct their work, which is a good
thing, but they cannot correct individual mistakes. Rather, they
must repeat the entire exercise.
This set of programs is
substantial in terms of content. The price is right, and it's
probably worth a shot. Some kids adore the program, although we
wouldn't recommend the program to children who are having trouble
learning. It might be discouraging for these children. It's better
for kids who have grasped phonics concepts and who are in need of
reinforcement.
Rating:
B
[For more information, user
reviews, or to buy: Educator's Choice Phonics Excelerator (Jewel Case)
at Amazon.com]
Educator's Choice Phonics Excelerator (Jewel Case)
| For Win 95/98/Me. Mac |
By: Knowledge Adventure |
Ages 5-7 |
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