Electronic Spelling Games

How Electronic Spelling Games Work

• Electronic spelling games use technology to assist players in learning the correct spelling of various words. They either utilize sound, a digital voice dictating a word that users must then type, or images that require players to find the corresponding word. Young players dominate the audience of electronic spelling games and for this reason, manufacturers focus on fast-paced, straightforward game play.

Educational Toys

• One form of electronic spelling games are standalone digital devices. These handheld devices feature a keyboard (not always with the QWERTY outline), and either pronounce words or show incomplete words on the screen so users can type in the correct spelling. Learning tools such as Lexibook Listen and Spell and Collins Dictionary and Thesaurus include human-like voices, as well as assistance with homonyms, synonyms and antonyms.

Spelling Game Software

• Simple spelling games are ubiquitous online and are an easy and economical option for fun spelling practice. Online spelling games are more diverse than their standalone counterparts, as capabilities of personal computers make it possible to use sounds and graphics, as well as different techniques. For example, online spelling games include typing, but also "letter catching" (ensuring falling letters land on a platform you control), while others, such as the BBC's "Spelling with the Spellits" feature stories.

Digital Adaptations of Spelling Games

• Successful spelling board games, such as Scrabble, as well as pencil-and-paper games, including Hangman, are also available online. Flash editions of these games are available for free at online gaming sites. In addition, you can find adaptations of the vintage spelling device Speak &Spell at speaknspell.co.uk.