Students will learn to recognise familiar chunks in words and how they go together simply by clicking and listening.

But this is more effective if they actually read the words to an adult or to one of their peers. Students can test each other, one reading a line or two of words, the other checking for errors. One asks their partner to write down a chosen word, and then both check that it is correct. They then swap roles.

In Wordchain, there is a timer at the bottom of the page that records how many words a student can read in 60 seconds. (You can see the button “Start Timer” at the bottom of the screen in the video link below) Many students find the timer threatening; they get flustered and upset. Do not use this timer with these students. Some students might be happy to use it without an observer. If a teacher aide is available, they might be able to check. Or, if the child has a device at home and a willing parent, the timer can be used at home. Ideally, the teacher will check all students regularly, but this is rarely feasible.

The chart below is for recording progress. Students delight in seeing themselves climbing up the chart; it rewards their effort. That is its purpose, so never mark a regression. There is no target; some students are simply faster processors than others.

This video demonstrates the process. https://youtu.be/QbgE35-FZZE