Foolproof Reading: Learn Fast!

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Foolproof Reading provides users with differentiated literacy instruction based on their age and ability level. To begin using the app, users must register with it by adding their nickname, birth year, and birth month. Next, users pick a paw color that will be used for rewards later in the app. Finally, they pick a reading level based on their ability to easily read the letter d or the words cup or quick. Based on their selection, the app will provide expectations for reading gains that will occur in the following 12 weeks, such as increasing fluency and accuracy when reading short phrases and words. Users then must tap the “Next” button to begin improving their reading.

A new screen then opens with the “Milk Bar of Dreams” Tree House, which is the app’s homepage for reading instruction. To begin, users should tap the green button on the bottom of the screen. A new screen will appear with a character who stands on a numbered icon. When users tap a numbered icon, an interactive activity will load that presents a literacy task for users to complete, such as order letters, choosing words that begin with a particular letter, and phonetically reading and spelling words, among other activities. The activities include animations to engage users in the literacy activity. In addition, while users complete the activities, their character uses energy, and users can monitor their character’s energy level in the top right. When it gets too low, users will have to tap the “Lollipop” icon on the bottom right of the screen to make a milkshake that recharges their character’s energy. The app provides narrated directions for this process. Users can return to completing literacy tasks by tapping the “X” button on the bottom right of the screen and resume choosing the numbered icons.

While completing the tasks, users earn coins. To redeem them, users must exit the literacy activity screen by tapping the “Home” button on the top left of the screen, which returns them to the Tree House. They then can tap the “Shopping Cart” icon on the bottom right of the screen to purchase rewards. Users must tap the “X” icon on the bottom right of the screen to return to the Tree House.

Instructional Ideas for Foolproof Reading

1. After introducing a literacy skill, teachers can have their students use this app to practice that skill along with similar ones that are on their level.
2. When leading mixed-ability groups of students in their class, teachers can use this app to differentiate literacy instruction. Teachers can choose the appropriate literacy level when registering students and then provide time during class for students to use the app. Teacher should also use a pre-assessment to note students’ literacy level before using the app and have them complete a post-assessment after using the app for 12 weeks. This data can then be used to show the students’ literacy growth. After the post-assessment, teachers should decide if students need to advance to the next literacy level or continue working at their present level.
3. During conferences and open houses with parents/guardians, teachers can recommend this app for them to use with their child at home to continue developing their literacy skills outside of the classroom.

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