SmartTutor.com
[Learning Today (954) 394-9995]

         SmartTutor.com  is an online math and reading resource which provides a research-based curriculum for the K-5 age group. It is designed to accelerate learning, increase student motivation and improve student test scores by building strong foundations in math (number and operations, measurement, geometry, algebra, data analysis & probability) and reading skills (phonemic awareness, phonics, sight words, and vocabulary).
         SmartTutor.com is structured to Assess, Instruct, and Track. The program initially tests the child, and automatically determines learning strengths and weaknesses in order to create a customized lesson plan. Lessons are well-structured with auditory instructions throughout,  and the many exercises (which include mouse-over support), reviews and quizzes make it ideal for homeschooling and/or targeted intervention. For tracking, teachers and parents can log-in to SmartTutor.com at any time to view detailed reports (evaluation results, performance and progress reports, lessons completed, and time on task).
         The reading curriculum comprises over 1500 tutorials and activities, and there are over 1200 tutorials and activities in math. The new Lesson Library adds a whole new dimension, making it easier for teachers to assign lessons. Also new are the algebra and data analysis & probability units.
         SmartTutor.com is designed to fully engage the child, and offers rewards such as a brief mouse-practice game when each unit is completed,   A free 14 day trial is available on the website.

Ticket to Read
[Voyager Learning (214) 932-9500]

         Voyager's Ticket to Read, winner of our Multi-Level Reading Website award, is a perfect example of the theory that 'form follows function.'
         Deceptively simple, Ticket to Read delivers solid reading and comprehension practice, and is designed to complement classroom instruction with 'fun and purposeful practice.' Six simple steps lead the K-8 reader: A 'cold read' of a high interest passage; reinforcement of comprehension and vocabulary; introduction of a target skill or strategy; building comprehension; modeling fluency; and, finally, a short quiz where readers earn 'tickets' to spend in the clubhouse.
         The use of clean, crisp graphics and animations is sparing and unobtrusive, helpful rather than distracting; the rewards are simple and short (and can be further shortened by the instructor to increase learning time). Teachers will appreciate the straightforward tracking page, and more competitive students will love the school-to-school "Reader Leader" scoreboard.
         Ticket to Read is a little gem of a reading program, and the ComputED Gazette is delighted to provide a review of the product. Well done.