The computer says a word and the child clicks one from the list on screen. In the Say it mode, the child reads a word and then clicks to hear the computer say it. In Word Spelling mode the student types in the word with no blanks as prompts. In later lessons, the student is asked to type dictated sentences and is taught to begin with captials and end with punctuation. Each task is taught before it is required.
Spelling becomes the greater challenge instead of reading in the more advanced lessons.
Because there are no cutsey graphics, this program is also appropriate as remedial work for older students as well as adults. In every mode the computer silently keeps a record of your child's errors. Phonics Tutor doesn't penalize the student with obnoxious beeps for wrong answers, but allows him to keep trying until he finds the right one. Then, the computer reassigns missed words at the end of each mode. Your child's file can be saved so the next day he will start right where he stopped.