This next resource I'm about to share with you all as part of the TOS Homeschool Crew it's definitely one of my favorites so far.
Read, Write & Type (by Talking Fingers) is a computer based learning system that incorporates reading, phonics, spelling AND typing, all in one highly visually engaging and multi sensory program.
The students are seeing, hearing and saying and typing sounds, words and sentences with the help of "Storytellers" (letters) and two "Helping Hands".
The program begins by introducing the Storytellers and Helping Hands, as well as "Vexor" , a computer virus that steals the letters to prevent them from writing their stories.
The student's job is help rescue all the letters back by doing reading, writing and typing exercises. The helping hands provide immediate support and help throughout the program, guiding the student to learn letters sounds, blends, etc. and of course, learning how to position their hands on the keyboard.
There are 10 levels on the program that can be completed as fast or slow pace as needed or desired. The recommended time for daily practice is 30 minutes.
After learning to recognize and type a few letters, the students begin to write simple words and sentences, and quickly progress to read and write simple stories.
As the level continues, the student gets to send emails, write their own stories and get extra practice on typing skills.
The parent also has access to progress chart where you can see what your child is learning and where they need more review.
The system is available both in CD and online formats. The student needs no previous reading instruction before using the program. The age recommended is 6-9. It works well for beginners as their first reading-writing instruction but also works just as well for older students that need review in those areas.
Prices vary depending on type of license you are purchasing. One year online version license for one user is $35. I think that's a fair price for what your kids will learn. If you purchase the CD version, the price is $79 (includes program CD, plus extra challenge CD, activity book, laminated keypad, stickers and access to online storybooks).
I received a one year access to the online version. This program was a instant hit with my boys! It worked well with both of their ages (5 and 7).
For Caleb (7) it provided a great way to review phonics, develop more spelling skills (he really needs it!) and strengthen his fingers with typing.
Notice how nice and relaxed his hands and arms are on this picture (and please ignore the messy counter!). This programs has taught him how to correctly position his hands at the keyboard, anchoring correctly and practicing to type without looking at the keypad.
On the student reports, he has definitely improve both spelling and phonetic pattern recognition with this program.
Noah (5) is just beginning to read so he is working his way through the it at a slower pace but still loving it. He is a hands-on learner so he really enjoys the typing part of it. In this picture he is doing one of the review games.
One thing I would like to note is that even when kids can do this program completely on their own, it was designed for the parent-teacher to interact with the student while in use. I suggest parents monitor from time to time the positioning of the hands on the keyboard as well. It takes practice and effort to maintain the correct position (remember when you first learned piano?).
I noticed one of my boys just using one finger to type because he had memorized the keyboard, so when he uses this program I stay near him. :)
Overall, I think this program is EXCELLENT!
To read what other crew members think about Read, Write & Type don't forget to visit the
Homeschool Crew Blog.
Disclaimer: I received this product free of charge for the purpose of trying at home and writing an honest review. No other compensation was given.
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Some of my favorite features of these units are...
