PocketPhonics for iPad/iPhone App FAQs

Here are the answers to some FAQs about the PocketPhonics App!

What category of AT does the application fit into?

There are two categories that this program can fit into. First, Reading for comprehension and vocabulary, as students are able to develop phonics skills and see the meaning of words. Also, Writing as a support for motor-skill challenges because it builds skills in writing letters.

How does the app work?

There are several steps for using this iPad/iPhone application, including saying the sounds, writing the letters, listening to sounds and selecting the appropriate letter.

First, the program asks the child to repeat the sound that is said by the program. Then, the child is able to practice writing the letter(s) that matches the sound. Starting points and arrows are included to guide in the correct procedure for writing the letter. Fun cheers are given for correctly writing the letter!

Then, the child is asked to select the appropriate letter(s) after it is read by the program. After several sounds are given, a word is spelled! A colorful picture that represents the word is displayed with another cheer to encourage the child.

There are over 30 sounds, which range from t to ea, ch to ow with many, many more. In the end, the child has the opportunity to hear, spell and see the meaning of 170 words.

Which of the Universal Design of Learning principles might be facilitated by this application and how?

The application represents information in many forms, as the child with see the letters, hear the sounds and physically interact with the letters by practicing writing the letters. Because the child is able to say it, write it and hear it, there is engagement in learning in a variety of ways. Further, the design is very colorful and encouragement by fun graphics contributed to the engagement of the program.

What types or groups of students might benefit from using this application?

The application is design for students in early childhood. It is fantastic for children just beginning to read, as it builds the early phonics skills necessary for learning to read. However, any student who is struggling in matching letters to sounds will benefit the application. Also, the application will assist students in writing letters, so it can help those who need more work in that area.

For what learning goals might it be more effective?

The application very much targets matching sounds to letters in the building of phonics skills. Therefore, learning goals that revolve around this idea may be reached by using this application.

Are there any concerns I should have about this application?

If you are targeting the specific skill of matching sounds and letters, you do not need to have any concerns. However, this application does not have an extension in the learning activity. So, if you are looking for a more whole language approach to reading, this application will not meet your needs.

What are some suggestions for teachers contemplating using the application?

If you are an early childhood education teacher, use the application for students who need to build specific phonics skills. It can be a great beginning task before being exposed to sentences and whole books. For elementary education teachers, consider this application for students who need extra support in phonics and writing letters.