Several unique terms and phrases describe the features of software we review on this site, some easier to grasp than others. This list briefly defines terms relevant to Vocabulary Software.

Ratings

Teaching Tools

The teaching tools are the means by which the program facilitates learning; the best programs offer a variety of teaching tools such as vocabulary flashcards, sentence completions, games and audio. The best vocabulary programs offer a diversity of tools so all types of learners can benefit from the software. Tools may also include the way the program tracks a student’s progress through the program.

Subjects Covered

The vocabulary subjects covered include whether definitions and second definitions are included with instruction as well as peripheral subjects like synonyms, parts of speech, pronunciations and spelling.

Instruction Quality

Instruction quality and the quality of the program go hand in hand. If the program offers false information such as misspellings, incorrect definitions, and poor grammar it directly impedes the learning process. Top programs offer accurate information and consistent word usage.

Help/Support

Vocabulary software overall is simple to use, but if problems should arise there ought to be adequate support offered by the provider.

Basic Features

# of Words Included

The total number of words and their definitions included in the vocabulary program.

Teaching Tools

Flash Cards

A flash card is a tool used for memorizing words and definitions. Generally, on one side of the card there is a word printed and on the other a definition, so students look at the word and think of the corresponding definition and flip the card, or vice versa. Some programs also include images or other devices to prompt associations.

Word Matching

Program offers two columns or groups of words and the student matches a word from one side to a comparable word on the other side.

Sentence Completions

The vocabulary software displays a sentence that is missing a key word; the student’s challenge is to type in or select the word that completes the sentence accurately.

Games

For reward or instruction, the program offers amusing games that reinforce vocabulary concepts.

Audio

The vocabulary software includes audio portions that either pronounces words and/or entire sentences and definitions.

Quizzes/ Tests

Program includes placement tests, short quizzes or other types of tests to either assess the student or facilitate advancement.

Multiple Choice

This is a type of quiz in which the student chooses the correct answer from a list of possible choices.

User/ Teacher can Add Words

Program allows users or teachers to add new words and definitions to the program.

Flashcard Creation Tool

Program has a tool for creating customized flash cards.

Level Advancement

Software not only tracks the users progress but also offers level of advancement and a progressive learning path.

Progress Tracker

The vocabulary software can track the student's progress through the program, some offer reports and statistics as well.

Word Usage Quizzes

The software includes quizzes that test word usage, for example some programs will display a sentence and the student is to decide whether the sentence employs the words correctly.

Reference/ Further Learning Info

Software and/ or website include links to additional material or offers extra word lists online.

Subjects Covered

Full Definitions (1st, 2nd Meanings)

The vocabulary program includes complete definitions, some include secondary meanings as well.

Derivations

Definition includes various versions of a word, for example eat, eating and eaten.

Origins

The definition includes the historic origin of a word which may include historic versions of the word, such as Dictionary.com’s origin information for the word “cat”: [Origin: bef. 900; ME cat, catte, OE catt (masc.), catte (fem.); c. OFris, MD katte, OHG kazza, ON kottr, Ir cat, Welsh cath and so on.

Antonyms

Program teaches words by the use of opposites or antonyms, such as “up” and “down.”

Synonyms

The software teaches words by use of similar words, such as “red” and “vermillion.”

Part of Speech

The definition includes the first meanings part of speech, such as dog, noun.

Pronunciations

The program displays the pronunciation of a word in the traditional manner using pronunciation symbols.

Simplified Pronunciations

The vocabulary software displays the pronunciation of a word in a simplified manner, such as “dawg” for “dog.”

Sentence Samples

Definitions include sample sentences with the words in common use. For example, the word “alabaster” may include a sentence like, “Her skin, though not the palest among the girls, was as translucent and white as alabaster.”

Spelling

The program includes quizzes or games that test the student’s ability to spell the words included on their vocabulary lists.

Help/Support

Telephone Support

Software provider offers technical support by telephone.

VoIP

Provider offers support by a VoIP connection like Skype.

Email/Form Support

Vocabulary software provider can be contacted by email or provides an email form on their website for inquiry submissions.

Online Help/ Tutorials

Tutorials and other helpful information can be found on the provider’s website.

Embedded Help/ Manual

The program includes a help tool and/or a user manual.

Free Updates/ Downloads

Provider offers free downloads like word lists or software updates.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions are posted on the provider’s website.

User Forums

The provider hosts a user forum where users can post inquires or offer advice and tips.

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