Two software packages aimed at EAL learners have been shortlisted for the BETT 2012 Award.
Mantra Lingua's Phonics Pack 1 uses their TalkingPEN application to support the learning of phonics and the appreciation of sounds with phoneme pronunciation, clear speech and sound effects. In addition, the recording ability of PENpal allows children not only to listen to pre-recorded sound easily, but also to record their voices, creating their own sounds or words, in English or their home language. For example, there are nursery rhymes in English, but children can record their own nursery rhymes in their home languages to share with the rest of the class. Recordings made by children can also be used to show progression in speaking and listening as well as being used for more long-term summative assessment.
The second product nominated is Education City's Learn English. Learn English is targeted at KS2 beginners who are learning English as an additional language (EAL). The Learn English module is made up of interactive activities to develop pupils’ listening, speaking, reading and communication skills. Each activity is designed to link with a specific area of learning to support subject knowledge and social interpersonal language.
The winners will be announced at this year's awards ceremony taking place at BETT on Wednesday 11 January 2012. The BETT show runs from 11th -14th January at Olympia
We would be interested in hearing from colleagues who have used either product and would be willing to review them for NALDIC
