The standard calls for a student to determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning word and phrases based on grade three reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies. The standard is the same for grades four and five based upon their grade-level needs.All apps are vocabulary apps and strategies.
4th-6th grade vocabulary ($.99) This app, from the well-known site Super Kids, provides a coordinated drill and game pair. Students use interactive flash cards to learn and review, and then practice their knowledge in a game of hangman. In addition, it allows teachers to send a report card via email to parents.
Spell and listen cards ($4.99) Best for third graders or students who are struggling with basic vocabulary. This app will help a student recognize, spell, pronounce and learn about 550 everyday words to strengthen his/her vocabulary.
Cramberry Flash Cards ($3.99) Cramberry helps kids study with flash cards on their iPad. Users can make flash cards with Cramberry, or choose from over a million free public flash cards. Cramberry tracks progress on each card and presents the cards users need to study more.
Word Teaser ($1.99) Unique custom word vocabulary builder. Puzzle as well as quiz, the Word Teaser app offers four custom puzzle/quiz games.
The standard also requires a student to demonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meanings.The following four apps are all free from NRCC Games. The apps are based on the Virginia Standard of Learning.
Same Meaning Magic Synonyms (Free) Students toss word stones into the wishing well to earn gold coins and jewels by choosing the best synonym.
Opposite Ocean (Free) Luna and Leo choose the bubble word antonyms to solve whale puzzles.
Opposite Ocean Pt ll (Free) Includes 180 new puzzle sentences with the same format.
Homophomes (Free) Leveled for second to sixth grades, using the same “game” format. Use correct spelling for frequently used words, including common homophones.
Idioms ($1.99) 700 English idioms: questions with explanations.
Proverbs Project ($8.99) Each proverb comes with an illustration. A book that all ages will enjoy.
iPoetry-101 ($.99) Using step-by-step instructions for eight different types of poems, the program provides plenty of opportunities for practice and suggestions for improving users' work. Specific skills include figurative language.
Vicki Windman is a special education teacher at Clarkstown High School South.
