Here's what sets us apart.
One-Word Answers
We carefully design our questions to ensure that spellers' answers reflect their own thoughts. With the exception of broad open and paraphrase questions, we use one-word answers for nearly all of our questions. This approach is intended to minimize any external influence from communication partners or spelling professionals. For example, when asking “What type of system does Yomogi Mochi boost?” the answer is simply “IMMUNE,” allowing spellers to respond without bias. We avoid questions that might lead to phrases, such as "Name one of Yomogi Mochi's health benefits," which could result in answers like "BOOST THE IMMUNE SYSTEM," "IT BOOSTES THE SYSTEM," or "IMMUNE SYSTEM IS BOOSTED." Phrased questions can introduce influencing from the spelling partner. So we focus on one-word responses to ensure there is no influencing going on.
Prior Knowledge
With 80% of our lesson paragraphs including prior knowledge questions, we seamlessly connect new information with what learners already know. This approach builds on existing knowledge and makes learning more relevant and impactful.
Math Integration
Almost every lesson paragraph includes math questions covering various operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, or fractions. This integration ensures a well-rounded educational experience by blending numerical skills with spelling practice. For example, in a lesson about construction, a math question might be “Using dynamite lets workers dig 10 feet more each day. If they need to dig 30 more feet, how many days will it take?” This combines math with spelling content for a richer learning experience.
Clear Semi-Opens
Our semi-open questions utilize structured lists to help spellers select from predefined options without any leading influence. This method ensures that spellers can choose the correct answer independently. For example, after reading about different foods, a question like “Name one of the things mentioned in the paragraph that Joshua ate” might lead to answers such as “PINEAPPLE,” “GRAPES,” or “PRETZELS,” all being one-word choices from a list.
Three-Board
Semi-Opens
We include multiple three-board semi-open questions in each lesson, designed to engage spellers of various proficiency levels. This approach allows spellers at different stages of their spelling journey to participate in semi-opens. For instance, a semi-open answer list might feature “DOG” and “FERRET." Both a 26-boarder and a 3-boarder can answer this question.
Tight-Open Questions
Each lesson paragraph incorporates at least two tight-open questions that require single-word answers. This format aids emerging spellers in developing their open communication skills and focuses on specific responses. For example, in a lesson about medieval toys, a tight-open question could be “Name one word that captures the essence of family,” which necessitates a single-word answer.
Board-Open Questions
Our lesson paragraphs feature at least two board-open questions, which offer endless possibilities for answers and foster creative thinking. These questions encourage spellers to explore their imagination and provide detailed responses. For instance, a question like “What do you think the crew talked about during their tireless work on the Ferris wheel?” invites a wide range of creative answers.