Hooked on Phonics – Master Reader is designed for children aged 7 to 12, and although it states that it can be used to encourage advanced readers to excel further, the primary usage seems to be to encourage struggling readers.
Each lesson consists of phonic skill development on an interactive computer session, reading a story with the words learned in the previous step, and positive reinforcement.
The kit comes with CD-ROMs, stories, storybooks, workbooks, flashcards and progress monitoring materials. The material is said to make learning easy and fun – and because the child received immediate feedback, they build confidence and enjoy the sessions. The child is required 30-40 minutes, 3 times per week on the program, some of which is spent reading to the parent, and getting encouragement and positive feedback
There are tips and instructions for parents too.
Many parents report that the time spent with the child in this program is extremely valuable to them both – from a learning perspective as well as a bonding perspective.
The program combines phonics (decoding words and sounding them out) and word comprehension (understanding the meaning of words). The books and stories are enchanting and not at all not intimidating – they are designed to nurture a love for reading. Many classic educators have questioned the phonics methodology, but the results should speak for themselves.
This educational software and system comes with a 60-day money back guarantee, which most likely you will not need to use. The Master Reader system is almost $300 and comes with a free encyclopedia. There is an installment payment plan available. Whereas this may seem expensive at first, you will be giving your child the gift of reading that will last a lifetime and open countless doors.
Hooked on Phonics also offers a “Learn To Read” program to develop and nurture reading skills for children up to 3rd grade level (ages 4–7). The Hooked on Phonics “Classic” program is still available for children aged 9–12 who have difficulty reading (no computer required)
Also offered is the “Hooked on School Success” program, which prepares kids for success in school by developing and building homework, organizational, and test-taking strategies.
Hooked on Phonics has a Math education program available utilizing the same methodology to develop lasting math skills.
Finally there is a classroom edition version for teachers containing enough materials to run a classroom session.
$299.95