Spelling City is another example of tutor-type drill and practice computer software, and this application shares many of the characteristics of effective examples:

• The learner responds to the stimulus provided by the computer
• The computer responds in kind
• There are clear linkages to the curriculum
• Material is broken down into easily manageable sections in a hierarchical structure
• Students proceed at their own pace, facilitating self-paced, individualised learning
• Records are maintained by the application facilitating assessment and student reports
• In common with Mathletics, Spelling City is a fun, engaging and interactive application that is enjoyed by children, and helps to develop their knowledge, understanding and confidence of curriculum content at their own pace as well as enabling them, addition to their teacher and parents or guardian, to assess their progress.

In Spelling City the word lists that form the basis of the games and activities are uploaded by the teacher in advance to allow for full integration with the subject matter, in this instance spelling and vocabulary. Students can play a variety of attractive and engaging games on any device – either at school or out of school – as their subscription allows full access to their account every day of the year and at any time. This application thereby facilitates students to practise their spelling and vocabulary outside of school years, for example in the car or on the bus travelling to school.

What technology can be used and are the alternatives?

Mathletics is available online for students with a PC and also has mobile Apps for iOS and Android.