SpellSmart

SpellSmart allows students to practice spelling in a fun, interactive way! If you're preparing for a spelling bee, you can upload your own words, or you can practice the ones we have.

Solo Mode: In Solo Mode, the app will read you words out loud, you'll type in your spelling, and we'll let you know if you're correct.
Buddy Mode: In Buddy Mode, you'll get a friend to hold the phone so that it's facing away from you. The app will read the words aloud, you can spell it out loud, and your buddy can check if you're correct. You can also bookmark any words you want to come back to, and we'll make a list of all your bookmarked words so you can practice them.

In 8th grade, I was preparing for the Scripps National Spelling Bee, one of the most prestigious spelling competitions in the US. However, since this was my first year competing, I had one minor issue - how am I supposed to practice? Most of the online guides I read told me that I should practice writing words on paper, but that approach wasn't very effective for me. I quickly realized that I needed someone to practice with me - someone like my mother, who was willing to help me for hours on end if necessary. Unfortunately, as an immigrant who spoke English as a second language, she couldn't correctly pronounce the complex words that even native speakers would struggle with. That's why I created SpellSmart, an effective way for any student to practice their vocabulary and get better at spelling.

SpellSmart not only provides a solution to my personal problem but also aims to address a broader social issue. By enabling minority students to practice their vocabulary and spelling skills, the app could become a valuable resource for immigrant families across the country facing similar language challenges. Now, parents and guardians can assist their children in honing their spelling abilities with just a touch of a button, fostering a supportive learning environment at home. SpellSmart's impact resonates beyond individual achievements, promoting a sense of community and understanding among diverse learners.