Great Vocabulary and Spelling Websites and Apps for iPad, iPod or iPhone

Hello everyone!  I know it's been a while since I updated, but I've been away on vacation in Disney World! 

I have some great websites that I've found that we've used in our Clinton Sylvan Learning Center as well as that I've used in a classroom.  Please make use of these websites this summer and feel free to add some more that you have used in the comments section below.  We can all benefit from shared knowledge, especially our kids!

http://www.freerice.org/

This website is especially great for preparing for the SAT- for every correct answer, they donate 10 grains of rice through the World Food Programme to help end hunger—learn and do good at the same time!

http://www.vocabulary.com/

You answer questions, they find words you may not know and help you to build your vocabulary.  This is a great website for Middle Schoolers and up, but again especially useful in preparing for the SAT.

http://www.vocabtest.com/

If your school uses the Sadlier-Oxford Vocabulary Workshop Book, pictured below, this is a must visit website to review words that were from previous school years or will see in the future. 

  

Flashcards+

 Free iPad & iPod app, pay only for voice component in any language--- they have libraries of stacks with anything from Spanish to SAT words

http://www.spellingcity.com/

This website uses dolche sight list words, lists that you create or lists from others- has games, practice and quizzes. 

http://www.kidsspell.com/

Spelling games using basic words.

Scramble with Friends, Words with Friends & Hanging with Friends (Free-Believe it or not- these are great for word building skills!)

Remember, these websites and apps are just SOME of the ones that we personally recommend and we have not been paid to sponsor any one of these links.  Please explore and see what is out there, but keep in mind that these are not meant to replace the great things a teacher can provide your child.  If you are still looking for additional help for your child, call the Clinton Sylvan at 908-638-6788 or the Flemington Sylvan at 908-806-4010.

Countdown to College

The pressure is on. To compete in today's global economy, teenagers must obtain collegiate degrees now more than ever.

"Our growing global economy has made it necessary for more students to attend college in order to obtain good paying jobs. New tools, such as the common application, encourage students to apply to more schools - which increased the competition," says Rust Greigg, vice president of Sylvan Learning College Prep.

With students reaching for their "dream" schools, many realize increasing their scores on thier college entrance exams is only part of the planning process. More students and parents today are learning the secret that top colleges have known for years - systematically preparing for university-level classes gives students more confidence and more confidence can lead to higher SAT/ACT scores, early admission to the college of your choice, and a smoother transition into higher education.

With the fall season rapidly approaching, we have developed a list of what high school students can do during the Fall/Winter season to ensure they are adequately prepared for the college process.

Freshman Year
*Meet with your guidance counselors to ensure you are enrolled in college prep courses.
*Focus on doing well in your classes and seek extra help from peers, teachers, and supplemental education providers when needed.
*Join a sports team or club to become involved in school.
*Volunteer for local activities to become a part of your community.

Sophomore Year
*Take the PSAT in October for practice.
*Attend college fairs and open houses in your area.
*Talk to friends and relatives attending college and ask them about their experiences.

Junior Year(This is a critical time for college prep)
*Take a leadership role within your sports teams, clubs, or volunteer organizations.
*Register to take the PSAT/PLAN offered in October.
*Attend college fairs and open houses in your area. Question school representatives and recruiters about thier academic programs, majors offered, application fees, and admission deadlines.
*Analyze what you want in an institution of higher learning:
- Small, medium, or large school?
- Urban, suburban, or rural campus?
- Distance from home?
- Rigorous admissions requirements (SAT/ACT scores, GPA, class rank, etc.)?
- Intended major offered?
*Create a first list of schools that meet your personal requirements.
*Begin to research national and regional scholarships. Note the requirements and deadlines.


Senior Year
*Take the SAT/ACT again. Prepare by using prep books or enrolling in a SAT/ACT prep program.
*Create a master calendar that includes:
- Collegiate application due dates
- SAT/SAT Subject Tests/ACT/AP dates, frees and registration deadlines
- Financial aid form deadlines
- Recommendations and transcript due dates
- High school deadlines for information requests
*Narrow down your list of universities to 5-10 and review your choices with your parents and teacehrs.
*Complete and mail your scholarship applications.
* Ask your teachers to write letters of recommendation. Give each person your resume, any requred forms, and a stamp and addressed envelope.
*Write your admissions essays. Ask your teachers and families to proofread.

The college process is involved, but Sylvan Learning Center can help you navigate. We offer free diagnostic SAT/ACT practice tests for students and free parent seminars and resources including college planning guides. Interested in how Sylvan can help you and your child? Call (908)638-6788 or (908)806-4010. It's never too early - or too late - to begin preparing for college and lifelonge economic success.