WO2014203226A1

WO2014203226A1 - A method and system to improve reading

Info

Publication number: WO2014203226A1
Application number: PCT/IB2014/062540
Authority: WO
Inventors: Elizabeth Frances NADLER-NIR
Original assignee: Lewis, David Anthony
Priority date: 2013-06-21
Filing date: 2014-06-23
Publication date: 2014-12-24
Also published as: AU2018229559A1; GB201601064D0; GB2530466A; HK1223187A1; ZA201600465B; CA2944627A1; AU2014282778A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a method and to a system which provide for progressive teaching of improved reading skills to a learner. A computer enabled by a suitable software program is connected to an electronic display monitor. A learner is presented with a written passage on the monitor. A learning process involves having the learner read the passage and recording words that the learner pronounces incorrectly or cannot pronounce as error words. Corrective feedback is provided to the learner which may optionally include an audible correct pronunciation of the error words and/or, optionally, include a definition of the error words. The plurality of error words is correlated to a set of similar or associated words in a database to provide a set of related training words. Training is also provided with respect to error words and training words. The learner is then progressed through subsequent passages in which the reading level is increased to provide exposure to progressive reading exercise with ongoing corrective tuition.

Description

A METHOD AND SYSTEM TO IMPROVE READING

FIELD OF INVENTION The invention relates to a method of and system for teaching reading skills, correct pronunciation and an improved understanding of the meaning of words.

BACKGROUND TO THE INVENTNION

Techniques for teaching reading are well established. These usually involve the one-on-one interaction of a teacher with the learner or reader. Classroom environments are used to extend the process to more than one learner. In so doing, a single teacher can facilitate the reading progress of a group. However, each individual learner still requires specific attention for optimum results and to overcome difficulties peculiar to that individual. The number of learners far exceeds the number of teachers and education is a global problem. This sometimes leaves the teaching to tutors or family members. However, without the correct training and material the process lacks efficiency.

OBJECT OF THE INVENTION It is an object of the invention to provide a method and system to teach reading which enables individual tuition without direct interaction with a teacher and, in particular, allows for a reader of slightly more advanced level to facilitate the teaching of a less proficient reader.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the invention there is provided a method for progressive teaching of improved reading skills to a learner, comprising the following steps:

- connecting a computer enabled by a suitable software program to an electronic display monitor,

- presenting a written passage provided by the computer to the learner on the monitor,

- initiating a learning process by allowing the learner to commence reading the passage,

- recording a plurality of words from the passage that the learner pronounces incorrectly or cannot pronounce as error words,

- providing corrective feedback to the learner which may optionally include an audible correct pronunciation of the error words and/or, optionally include a definition of the error words,

- allowing the learner to complete reading the passage,

- matching the plurality of error words to a set of similar or associated words in a database to provide a set of related training words,

- providing training with respect to at least one of the plurality of error words and at least one of the set of related training words,

- progressing to another passage, and in so doing

- advancing the reading level of the passages by repeating the process.

It is to be understood that the term record and/or recorded and/or recording may include the collecting and/or storage of data by the software program. It is to be understood that the set of related training words may include written passages containing similar or associated words to the plurality of error words. Similarities or associations may be determined by a comparative analysis including at least one of, but not limited to, the following group: spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions, and syllable divisions.

It is to be understood that the monitor may be any display means such as, but not limited to, at least one of the following group: a monitor for a desktop or laptop computer, a display means for a mobile phone such as a smart phone, and a display means for a tablet. The invention further provides for the database to be compiled with categories comprising examples of function words and/or trick words and/or word patterns each category having similar spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions, and the reading passages are linked to the database for analysis of the plurality of error words in accordance with any categories of the database in which the error words are present ; and for the database to be linked to, preferably via the Internet, a dictionary, preferably an online dictionary, for cross-reference of words in the passage to access and present for example syllable division, international phonetic alphabet transcriptions, definitions and/or voice pronunciation of words. A further feature of the invention provides for the reader to mark words that are not understood, for the pronunciation and meaning to be provided and for the word to be recorded against a vocabulary listing.

A further feature of the invention provides

- for a reading partner to accompany the learner, - for the monitor to include a cursor on the display for interaction with the text of the passage, and

- for the reading partner to click on any error words as they occur during reading of the passage. A further feature of the invention provides for the method to be implemented via the Internet using a computer with the software installed on a remote server; and for the passages to be accessed on an Internet webpage.

A further feature of the invention provides for - the software to include a timer function,

- for the timer to be initiated when reading of the passage commences,

- for the timer to be paused when an error word is clicked by the reading partner to provide an opportunity for the corrective feedback, and

- for the reading partner to restart the timer subsequent to the corrective feedback for completion of the passage.

Further aspects of the invention provide for the corrective feedback to include providing the learner with an audible and/or written correct pronunciation of the error words and, optionally, with a written and/or audible definition of the error words; for the reading partner to provide the audible correct pronunciation or for the computer to provide the audible correct pronunciation; and for the definition to be displayed on the monitor.

In accordance with a second aspect of the invention there is provided a system comprising interconnected components configured for implementing the method defined above.

The system in accordance with the second aspect of the invention may be a system for progressive teaching of reading skills to a learner comprising a computer processor connected to a monitor, the processor enabled by a suitable software program:

- to present a first of a plurality of reading passages on a program interface displayed on the monitor for a learner to read;

- with a computer input control associated with a cursor for interaction with the program interface to mark any words in the first passage that cannot be pronounced or are pronounced incorrectly;

- to record the marked words as error words;

- the processor including a database of words used for the plurality of passages;

- the database including details of the correct pronunciation of the words, preferably the database is compiled with categories comprising examples of function words and/or trick words and/or word patterns each category having similar spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions;

the software program configured:

- match the recorded error words to a set of similar or associated words in the database and to provide a set of related training words,

- provide training with respect to at least one of recorded error words and set of related training words,

- to provide corrective feedback relating to each recorded error word, which includes the details of the correct pronunciation of the error words; and

- to present a second reading passage for a repeat of the reading and corrective feedback process;

with further repeats through subsequently presented passages in which the reading level is increased providing exposure to progressive reading exercise with ongoing corrective tuition.

The database may be linked to a dictionary which includes definitions of the words from the plurality of passages and the corrective feedback includes definitions of recorded error words. The details of the correct pronunciation of the recorded error words may include a recorded electronic sound file which is played back to the learner over speakers, connected to the processor, as part of the corrective feedback. The software program may include a timer facility to record the time taken to read a passage and the recorded time is compared to an acceptable timeframe for reading of a given passage. The computer input control associated with a cursor may be used to initiate, pause and resume the timer facility.

There is provided that the second and/or subsequent written passages may have words with similar and/or associated spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions to the error words and/or the training words. The similarities or associations may be determined by a comparative analysis of the error words and/or training words to the database.

There provided for the software program to be configured to provide training with respect to selected error words and the set of related training words, wherein the training words have similar spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions, to the selected error.

The dictionary, preferably an online dictionary, may be for reference of words in a reading passage to access and present syllable division, international phonetic alphabet transcriptions, definitions and/or electronic voice pronunciation of words.

Typically, the database may include a pattern dictionary which provides a list of common spelling patterns in the English language, the phonetic transcription of each spelling pattern and/or word lists for each spelling pattern. Each spelling pattern may include a collection of words having an increasing number of syllables and containing a specific pattern. Typically, a recorded error word may be matched against entries in the dictionary and/or pattern dictionary to provide training words which are presented to the learner as collections of pattern words that include spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions, syllable divisions and/or related words to the learner. In an example embodiment of the second aspect of the invention the software program may store and sort a reader's error history and any error pattern that presents itself in that history to compile error history records. The software program may cross-references words in the error history records against the database and directs a reader to a second or subsequent passage based the recorded error words and/or training words such that the second or subsequent passage includes words having similar and/or associated spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions to the error words and/or the training words. Words having similar and/or associated spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions to the error words and/or the training words corresponding to words in the error history records and which are presented in second and/or subsequent passages may be highlighted on the interface to draw a reader's attention to potentially problematic words.

In an example embodiment of the second aspect of the invention the reader when not understanding a word presented in a reading passage, the reader may select the word using the computer input control and a cursor whereupon the software program may display the pronunciation and meaning in a new window on the monitor and after which, when the window is closed using the computer input control and a cursor, the reader may continue reading the passage. A further feature of the second aspect of the invention includes the software program storing the selected word in a vocabulary listing. The program interface may provide a link through which the vocabulary listing is accessible.

A further feature of the second aspect of the invention includes that at least one word of the vocabulary listing may be used to select the second and/or subsequent passages.

It is to be understood that the monitor may be any display means such as, but not limited to, at least one of the following group: a monitor for a desktop or laptop computer, a display means for a mobile phone such as a smart phone, and a display means for a tablet.

These and other features of the invention will become more apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments which is made by way of example only.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the invention there is provided a method to teach a learner improved reading skills comprising the following steps: connecting a computer enabled by a suitable software program to an electronic display monitor; presenting a written passage provided by the computer to the learner on the monitor; initiating a learning process by allowing the learner to commence reading the passage; recording a plurality of error words from the passage that the learner pronounces incorrectly or cannot pronounce as error words; providing corrective feedback to the learner which may optionally include an audible correct pronunciation of the error words and/or, optionally include a definition of the error words; allowing the learner to complete reading the passage; matching the plurality of error words to a set of similar or associated words in a database to provide a set of related training words; providing training with respect to at least one of the plurality of error words and set of related training words; progressing to another passage; and in so doing, advancing the reading level of the passages by repeating the process.

It is to be understood that the term record and/or recorded and/or recording includes the collecting and/or storage of data by the software program.

It is to be understood that the set of related training words generally includes written passages containing similar or associated words to the plurality of error words. Similarities or associations are determined by a comparative analysis including at least one of, but not limited to, the following group: spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions, syllable divisions.

The invention further provides for the database to be compiled with categories comprising examples of word patterns, function words and/or trick words and to link the reading passages to the database for analysis of the plurality of error words in accordance with any categories of the database in which the error words are present; and for the database to be linked to, preferably via the Internet, a dictionary d for cross-reference of words in the passage to access and present syllable division, international phonetic alphabet transcriptions, definitions and/or voice pronunciation of words.

Typically, the invention further provides for the reader to mark words that are not understood, for the pronunciation and meaning to be provided and for the word to be recorded against a vocabulary listing.

Error words may also be marked by the reader partner, for the pronunciation and meaning to be provided and, optionally, for the word to be recorded against a vocabulary listing.

Typically, the invention further provides: for a reading partner to accompany the learner; for the monitor to include a cursor on the display for interaction with the text of the passage; and for the reading partner to click on any error words as they occur during reading of the passage.

Typically, the invention further provides for the method to be implemented via the Internet using a computer with the software installed on a remote server; and for the passages to be accessed on an Internet webpage.

Typically, the invention further provides for: the software to include a timer function; for the timer to be initiated when reading of the passage commences; for the timer to be paused when an error word is clicked by the reading partner to be provide an opportunity for the corrective feedback; and for the reading partner to restart the timer subsequent to the corrective feedback for completion of the passage. Additional aspects of the invention typically provide for the corrective feedback to include providing the learner with an audible and/or written correct pronunciation of the error words and, optionally, with a written and/or audible definition of the error words; for the reading partner to provide the audible correct pronunciation or for the computer to provide the audible correct pronunciation; and for the definition to be displayed on the monitor. In accordance with a second aspect of the invention there is provided a system comprising interconnected components configured for implementing the method defined above. For the sake of brevity the second aspect of the invention as described in the Summary above will not be repeated here, but is fully incorporated by reference.

In a preferred example embodiment of the invention there is provided a method to teach a learner improved reading skills, typically in the areas of: reading accuracy, reading speed and reading comprehension, with assistance of a present reading partner, comprising the following steps:

i. connecting a computer enabled by a suitable software program to an electronic display monitor,

ii. presenting a written passage provided by the computer to the learner on the monitor,

iii. initiating a learning process by allowing the learner to commence reading the passage,

iv. initiating a timer to time the learning process,

v. recording a plurality of words from the passage that the learner pronounces incorrectly or cannot pronounce as error words, wherein the error words are recorded by the reading partner by marking said error words utilizing a cursor on the display manipulatable with a mouse, preferably the recorded error words are displayed in a portion of the display monitor,

vi. providing corrective feedback to the learner by optionally including an audible correct pronunciation of the error words and/or optionally including a definition of the error words displayed on the display monitor,

vii. allowing the learner to complete reading the passage,

viii. matching the plurality of error words to a set of similar and/or associated words in a database linked to a dictionary to provide a set of related training words,

ix. providing training with respect to at least one of the plurality of error words, preferably two error words, and the set of related training words , wherein the training words have similar spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions, to the two error words, x. progressing to another passage, and in so

xi. advancing the reading level of the passages by repeating the process.

Preferably, during step 5, recording error words, the reading partner has the option to mark and record the plurality of error words during the learning process with, alternatively without, stopping the timer. The learning process may be interrupted, preferably by the reading partner stopping the timer. Typically, the learning process is interrupted by the reading partner marking an error word with the cursor. Marking may include placing the cursor on or near the error word and clicking the mouse. Said marking stops the timer, and actions corrective feedback, preferably wherein the corrective feedback is in the form of providing a definition of the error word and/or providing an audible correct pronunciation of the error word. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the error word is additionally recorded in a vocabulary listing visually presented on a portion of the display monitor typically entitled "My [User] Vocabulary Cards". Alternatively, marking of error words by the reading partner does not stop the timer, but instead the plurality of error words are logged and/or recorded for later training. The error words may be logged and/or recorded using voice recognition type software. In a preferred example embodiment of the invention, there is provided an additional step 12, step 12 includes allowing the learner to mark and record any words not understood, the marking and recording actions corrective feedback, optionally including at least one of the following group: an audible correct pronunciation of the word and/or an audible definition of the word, a definition of the word which is displayed on the display monitor and adding said word to the vocabulary listing. When the words are added to the vocabulary listing, the vocabulary listing is visually presented on a portion of the display monitor typically entitled "My [User] Vocabulary Cards". Typically, step 12 includes providing a visual and/or auditory prompt to the learner to mark and record words in the passage not understood by the learner. Typically, the training words are provided by analyzing the recorded error word against the database and/or dictionary content. Typically, the database comprises a pattern dictionary containing therein a set of words, their associated spelling patterns, their phonetic transcription and related words. In an example embodiment of the invention, the "Pattern Dictionary" provides a list of over about 300 common spelling patterns in the English language, the phonetic transcription of each spelling pattern, and word lists for each spelling pattern. Each spelling pattern has for example, one, two, three, four and five syllable words containing a specific pattern. Typically, a recorded error word is matched against entries in the dictionary and/or pattern dictionary to provide training words which are presented to the learner as "My [User] Pattern Cards", which may include spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions, syllable divisions and related words to the learner. In a certain embodiment of the invention, a training exercise, including for example a spelling exercise, is generated utilizing error words and training words wherein the spelling exercise, for example, contains rules regarding spelling of the error words and/or similar words and is displayed on the display monitor.

In another embodiment of the invention, the training exercise includes a written passage containing the set of related training words which contains similar or associated words to the plurality of error words. Similarities or associations may be determined by a comparative analysis including at least one of, but not limited to, the following group: spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions, and syllable divisions.

The dictionary typically provides at least one, preferably all of, the following for words contained in the written passages: definitions, phonetic patterns, pronunciation of the phonetic patterns, and pronunciation of the words. The dictionary is linked to the database (pattern dictionary) and is generally utilized in order to generate training exercises and/or provide definitions. The dictionary typically cooperates together with the database (pattern dictionary) to provide a training exercise.

Typically, the dictionary contains information about all words in the written passage. For example the word 'television' may occur in the written passage, and the dictionary will contain at least the following information relating to the word 'television': phonetic transcription:' tel.i .vi 3 .en)

syllable divisio: te-le-vi-sion

pronunciation: (audible)

definition: a system for converting visual images (typically with sound) into electrical signals, transmitting them by radio or other means, and displaying them electronically on a screen.

As the learner concludes a learning process the error words presented to the learner as "My [User] Pattern Cards" are utilized to generate a customized subset of the Pattern Dictionary, typically titled "My [User] Pattern Card Dictionary" which is a useful tool to measure the learner's performance. For example, the "My [User] Pattern Card Dictionary" will contain information pertaining to a series of error words and will be able to identify trends and therefore aid in generating training exercises focusing on the identified trends.

Table 1 shows possible content of the "Pattern Dictionary" for spelling patterns A, Ab, Abe and Able.

Spelling Sound as

pattern represented One Two Syllables Three Four Syllables

Sounds as by phonetic Syllable Syllables

represented script

by roman

letters A E Sam, hammer, happening, catastrophe,

Pam, blabber, pattering, tantalising, ham, sagging saddening analysing slap,

drag,

scan

ei apron, lady, alien, Alienate,

baby, staple, apricot aviation, making, taking, atheist babysitter facing, racing,

paging, gaming,

gaping, dating,

taping, blaming,

draping, trading,

crazy, lazy,

achy

D what, wanting, wandering, qualifier,

was, watches, watchfully , qualitative wash, wanted, quadrangle

wasp, waddling

watch

a : bath, father, rather, unfasten, unfastening path staff room , multitask

glass, unmask

staff, ask

Ab Eb Abs abscess, abrupt, abnormal, abbreviate, absent abattoir, aberration, abdomen abolition

Abe ei b Babe Abel, babel, Astrolabe

label

Able 8bl - - affable, available,

arable knowledgeable, miserable

The "My [User] Pattern Card Dictionary" typically contains therein a sub-set of the information contained in the "Pattern Dictionary" and is generated in a customized fashion based on error words recorded during the learning process. Typically, the "My [User] Pattern Card Dictionary" contains at least one of the following: a recorded pronunciation of the pattern, a recorded key word for each pattern, a picture of the keyword, a recorded sentence containing the key word, spelling rules.

Table 2 shows an example of a "My [User] Pattern Card Dictionary"

Typically, step 1 1 , progressing to another passage, includes highlighting the plurality of error words and presenting them at a position on the display monitor. Alternatively, the error words remain highlighted at the end of the process. Step 1 1 , progressing to another passage may include generating such other passage which includes words having similar spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions to the error words and/or the training words. In an example embodiment of the invention, there are 15 reading passages of between 150 and 400 words at of a number of different reading levels which are matched for reading difficulty. The topics of the passages are varied. The maximum number of times that the same passage can be read is three. If the learner reads each of the 15 passage 3 times at each level, he/ she will have 45 practice opportunities per level. Typically, the learner must re-read the passage if the reading speed (words read per minute), the accuracy (% errors) are below a certain criterion level. If the learner is at or above the criterion levels for speed and accuracy, he/she can choose to proceed straight to a set of questions or to re-read the passage.

In the example embodiment of the invention, the learner may only advance to a next level once all 15 passages have been completed. After a predetermined number of levels have been completed, a self-assessment questionnaire is provided to reflect on progress, difficulties and to offer video clips for motivation or Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's).

It is to be understood that the invention may be implemented via the Internet using a computer with the software installed on a remote server; and for the passages to be accessed on an Internet webpage. The Internet webpage may for example be displayed on, but not limited to, a monitor for a desktop or laptop computer, a mobile telephone, a smart phone and a tablet.

Typically, in an example embodiment of the invention prior to Step 2 an additional so-called "leveling" step takes place. The leveling step is intended to place the learner at the correct level of difficulty for future learning processes. The learner is provided a questionnaire to complete and based on the answers the learner is leveled either at, below or above his/her age and school grade level. It is to be understood that the "My [User] Vocabulary Cards" may also be accessed by the learner to initiate a training exercise related to the words recorded in "My [User] Vocabulary Cards". The training exercise may include prompts to the learner to spell all or parts of the word, or to read and/or provide all or parts of a definition to the word.

An example embodiment of the invention provides a computer based reading program in use functioning as a system to improve reading. It will be accessed via the Internet at home, work or school to help adults and children improve their reading skills.

The program is connected to an electronic database compiled with categories comprising examples of word patterns, function words and/or trick (or counterintuitive) words, spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions. The program will include or have access to an electronic collection of reading passages. These passages are linked through the program to the database for analysis of a plurality of error words in accordance with any categories of the database in which the plurality of error words are present. The program and particularly the database is also connected via the Internet to a dictionary facility, preferably an online dictionary facility. The dictionary is used by the program for cross-referencing of words in the passages. This provides the program with access to the dictionary and facilities enabling the presentation of syllable division, international phonetic alphabet transcriptions, definitions and/or voice pronunciation of words.

A preferred embodiment of invention is intended for people who are willing to read aloud with a more skilled reading partner to improve their reading skills. The program will continually guide both learner and reading partner.

The program serves to improve the following reading skills: - reading accuracy (to decrease the number of misread words);

- reading speed (to read faster in order to cover more material and improve comprehension);

- reading fluency (to improve the flow of reading so that overall comprehension improves); and/or vocabulary and reading comprehension (to understand the content of the material being read).

The method and/or system of the invention involves a learning process that is initiated with a reader "leveling" exercise. A pre-test is used to "level" the learner's reading accuracy, speed and comprehension. The learner is provided a pre-test questionnaire to complete, and based on the answers the learner is placed either at, below or above his/her age and school grade level. Based on the pre-test results, the learner is provided with a "leveling passage" to read. The time taken for the learner to read the "leveling passage" is timed. Several test questions are generated based on the text of the "leveling passage" for the learner to answer. Based on reading speed, accuracy and comprehension and answers to the test questions the learner is "leveled" at, below or above his/her age and school grade level. This "leveling" exercise is not intended, generally, to generate training exercises. Instead, the "leveling" exercise is intended to place the learner at the correct level for future training exercises, and is used as an entry point to the remainder of the invention.

Once the "leveling" exercise has been completed a learning process commences. The learning process is at a level as determined by the outcome of the "leveling" exercise. The written passage is presented to the learner and the reading is timed by the reading partner clicking the "start reading" icon. The reading partner will mark and record any error words. For example if the reader misreads "rake" as "rack", then "rake" will be marked and recorded with a click of the mouse controlling the computer cursor. The error word is logged as an error word. The database typically termed the "Pattern Dictionary" stores in excess of about three hundred spelling patterns and structures. An example extract is shown in Table 1 . Typically each word is transcribed phonetically in the database. For example the sound pattern [Ou ] can be spelt in the following ways: lol /oal lo-el loel /owl. Each spelling option will have a list of words linked to it together with words of different structure. An example of this as follows: Sound: [Ou ]

Spelling option: /oa/

One syllable word: boat soap coal coat

One syllable word with consonant blend: gloat float bloat Two syllable words: floated groaning loaded

Three syllable word: floatation croakily gloatingly

When a word is clicked on during reading (for example "goat") this word is also looked up by the program in the associated dictionary, typically linked to the Pattern Dictionary database. The phonetic transcription is found, namely: [gou t].

This word pattern or structure is cross-referenced to the database (the Pattern Dictionary) and will be matched to the [ou ]. It is then cross-referenced to the dictionary that spells it as /oa/. The [ou ] pattern spelled /oa/ one syllable words with no blends is then retrieved from the database. An associated list, containing training words, which includes: "boat, coal coat" is retrieved for training. These training words have training exercises linked to them, highlighting the word structure for the relevant training.

Clicking on the word twice prompts optionally a pre-recorded pronunciation of the word, a syllable division and/or a definition of the word. The reading partner then clicks on a "continue" icon to allow the timer to re-start and to allow the learner to continue reading the passage.

Once the learner has completed reading the passage, the reading partner stops the timer and the time and errors are stored and analyzed by the program (not seen by the reader). Each passage is read two or three times, with exercises generated between each reading of the same passage. Comprehension questions are given at the end of the two to three readings. Three multiple-choice questions will be asked at the end of the reading to assess the reader's comprehension of the passage.

Based on collected data, the program will generate accuracy, speed and comprehension and score and learner accordingly. As the learner concludes a learning process the error words presented to the learner as "My [User] Pattern Cards" are utilized to generate a customized subset of the pattern dictionary, typically titled "My [User] Pattern Card Dictionary" which is a useful tool to measure the learner's performance. For example, the "My [User] Pattern Card Dictionary" will contain information pertaining to a series of error words and will be able to identify trends and therefore aid in generating training exercises focusing on the identified trends. "My [User] Pattern Card Dictionary" may also be used when progressing to another passage and may include use in generating such other passage which includes words having similar spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions to the error words and/or the training words.

Each level of the teaching method will consist of about 10 to 15 short passages. The first passage will be presented to the reader.

The errors or new vocabulary words are shown in a list to the learner at a section of the display monitor titled "My [User] Pattern Cards" and "My [User] Vocabulary Cards" respectively. The content "My [User] Pattern Cards" is utilized to generate the "My [User] Pattern Card Dictionary".

If, during a learning process, there is recorded more than a predetermined percentage of errors, the learner is forced to mark two of the error words for the purpose of "training". As indicated, the program will sort the words into common reading patterns. For example: "a-e" for "rake", "ai" for "rain", "ou" for "house" and "tion" for "education" or function words such as "the, a, then, they..." or trick (or counterintuitive) words such as "yacht, laugh...".

Repetition of the same type of error will be noted and logged by the program so that the reader will learn from his own error pattern. This is presented as "My [User] Pattern Card Dictionary" as previously explained. A short exercise will be presented for the two training words referred to. The training exercise will train the error word in conjunction with three other words of the same pattern, or words that are categorized by the program as being commonly confused with the error word. For example, "rake", "make" and "take".

The text of the passage will then be read again, using the same procedure assisted by the reading partner. For the second reading, problem or error words will be highlighted.

The reader can choose to read the passage for a third time. Repeated reading is one of the best methods of reading instruction.

A short exercise will be generated after the second or third reading. Three comprehension multiple-choice questions are asked after the second or third reading of the text. These will cover the major areas of comprehension; namely main idea, vocabulary and inference. The program will be modular and leveled so that a reader can sign up for and progress to the next level. The completed level will be logged against a particular reader's profile and the next level accessible in a manner similar to computer-based games.

A level may comprise 10 to 15 reading passages could take 10 to 15 days if a single paragraph and the associated training exercises are done daily.

The content of the passages may be varied. A reader may select from various fields or genres of interest.

It is anticipated that an opportunity may be provided to publishers to make extracts from popular books available for the reading program. This will encourage readers to purchase the relevant book if it the passages have any appeal.

It is estimated that each reading session will take between 15 to 20 minutes including the exercises. Data generated from the timed reading, the error words, the meaning of words and the comprehension exercises can generate statistics for the reader. Revision exercises can in turn be compiled so that the accuracy patterns can be re-taught and new vocabulary can be checked. The training method can be used by non-professionals, remedial teachers, reading teachers and speech and language therapists.

Many readers do not read well because they misread or are unable to pronounce words correctly. They have reading accuracy difficulties. The invention provides a reading program that creates a progressively expanding record of the words that a learner is unable to read correctly.

This enables the teaching and guidance relevant to word patterns or structures that are troublesome for the reader. A more focused approach to teaching is taken from the learner's problem areas rather than to go through a reading or phonic scheme that teaches all patterns or structures whether they are within the learner's ability or not.

The invention accordingly makes use of error analysis to optimize valuable teaching time. When the reader makes an error, the reading partner can correct it, but the word is also recorded as an error word (for example, if the reader misreads the target word "take", it is recorded as an error word and referenced against the database). The error word, once captured, is then matched to a set of similar words ("take, make, save, game").

All of the words in this example have the pattern: "a-consonant-e" and are of one syllable with no consonant blends.

After the reader has completed of the passage, the word "take" is retrieved with a set of similar words. The word structure or pattern of the recorded word is highlighted and trained "Take" [with emphasis on the "..a...e ." combination].

The word is compared to other words of the same structure or pattern. So one error, corrected and then analyzed can potentially teach a learner an entire set of words with the same or similar pattern or structure. The program will store and sort the learner's error history and any error pattern that presents itself in that history. These records can then be used to predict words that may be misread or problematic for the reader. Some of the commonly misread words can be highlighted as a warning that causes readers to pay attention. This helps a reader to self-monitor reading accuracy.

Some poor readers can read well mechanically, but do not understand the content. This is often due to weak vocabulary. They can pronounce the words but do not understand the meaning. The same principals will apply to the vocabulary listing. When the reader does not understand a word, they can click on it. The pronunciation and meaning can be given briefly, before they continue reading. The word is then stored in a vocabulary listing. The invention provides a method to improve reading that records the words with which a particular reader has difficulty. It compares those words to a database compiled of word categories that are useful for learning and understanding relevant aspects of the language. In so doing, the program follows a progression through appropriate passages suited to improve that particular learner's grasp of the language.

In addition, the program provides exercises between the reading of the passages which will also be selected based on the logged error words of a reader.

The method of the invention accordingly provides for interactive and learner specific training outside of a classroom environment and in the absence of a skilled teacher or language tutor to provide exposure to progressive reading exercise with ongoing corrective tuition, as described. This is achieved, amongst others, by cross-referencing the words of the passages to the words in the database.

The invention may also further include a rewards system. The learner may obtain a score based on the results a learning process and/or training exercise. Such score should motivate and encourage the learner to continue utilizing the invention. It will be understood that in addition to a method as described the scope of the invention extends to a system for teaching a learner improved reading skills. The hardware and equipment can take a variety of forms and the connections (wire or wireless) between components may also be of any suitable kind. Furthermore, mobile telephones and other devices are fully enabled with the necessary Internet connectivity to implement the invention.

It is anticipated that voice recognition software coupled with suitable electronic equipment will enable detection of error words without the presence of a reading partner to interact with the program and log the error words by listening to the reader. Also the level of tuition offered by the program may be varied depending on the embodiment.

The software that enables the invention can be downloaded to a computer or device associated with the display monitor or it can be located on a remote server and accessed over the Internet. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that a number of variations may be made to the features described without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

A method for progressive teaching of improved reading skills to a learner, comprising the following steps:

- providing corrective feedback to the learner which may optionally include an audible correct pronunciation of the error words and/or, optionally, include a definition of the error words,

- allowing the learner to complete reading the passage,

- progressing to another passage, and in so doing,

- advancing the reading level of the passages by repeating the process. 2. A method as claimed in claim 1 in which the database is compiled with categories comprising examples of function words and/or trick words and/or word patterns each category having similar spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions, and the reading passages are linked to the database for analysis of the plurality of error words in accordance with any categories of the database in which the error words are present. A method as claimed in claim 1 in which the database is linked, preferably via the Internet, to a dictionary for cross-referencing of words in the passage to access and present for example syllable division, international phonetic alphabet transcriptions, definitions and/or voice pronunciation of words.

A method as claimed in claim 1 in which the reader is to mark words that are not understood, and for the pronunciation and meaning to be provided and for the word to be recorded against a vocabulary listing.

A method as claimed in claim 1 which further provides

- for a reading partner to accompany the learner,

- for the monitor to include a cursor on the display for interaction with the text of the passage, and

- for the reading partner to click on any error words as they occur during reading of the passage.

A method as claimed in claim 1 which is implemented via the Internet using a computer with the software installed on a remote server.

A method as claimed in claim 6 in which the passages are accessed on an Internet webpage.

A method as claimed in claim 6 or claim 7 in which

- the software includes a timer function,

- the timer is initiated when reading of the passage commences,

- the timer is paused when an error word is clicked by the reading partner to provide an opportunity for the corrective feedback, and

- the reading partner to restart the timer subsequent to the corrective feedback for completion of the passage.

9. A method as claimed in claim 8 in which the corrective feedback includes providing the learner with an audible and/or written correct pronunciation of the error words and, optionally, with a written and/or audible definition of the error words.

10. A method as claimed in claim 9 in which the reading partner provides the audible correct pronunciation or for the computer to provide the audible correct pronunciation. 1 1 . A method as claimed in claim 9 in which the definition is displayed on the monitor.

A method as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 1 1 , wherein the step of progressing to another passage includes generating such other passage having words with similar and/or associated spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions to the error words and/or the training words.

13. A system for progressive teaching of reading skills to a learner comprising a computer processor connected to a monitor, the processor enabled by a suitable software program:

- to record the marked words as error words;

the software program configured:

- to match the recorded error words to a set of similar or associated words in the database and to provide a set of related training words,

- to provide training with respect to at least one of the recorded error words and/or set of related training words,

- to provide corrective feedback relating to at least one recorded error word, which includes the details of the correct pronunciation of the error words; and

A system as claimed in claim 13 in which the database is linked to a dictionary which includes definitions of the words from the plurality of passages and the corrective feedback includes definitions of recorded error words.

A system as claimed in claim 13 or claim 14 in which the details of the correct pronunciation of the recorded error words includes a recorded electronic sound file which is played back to the learner over speakers, connected to the processor, as part of the corrective feedback.

A system as claimed in any of claims 13 to 15 in which the software program includes a timer facility to record the time taken to read a passage and the recorded time is compared to an acceptable timeframe for reading of a given passage.

17. A system as claimed in claim 16 in which the computer input control associated with a cursor is used to initiate, pause and resume the timer facility.

A system as claimed in any of claims 13 to 18 in which the second and/or subsequent written passages have words with similar and/or associated spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions to the error words and/or the training words.

A system as claimed in claim 18 in which similarities or associations are determined by a comparative analysis of the error words and/or training words to the database.

A system as claimed in claim 19 in which the software program is configured to provide training with respect to selected error words and the set of related training words, wherein the training words have similar spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions, to the selected error.

A system as claimed in claim 14 in which the dictionary, preferably an online dictionary, is for reference of words in a reading passage to access and present syllable division, international phonetic alphabet transcriptions, definitions and/or electronic voice pronunciation of words.

A system as claimed in claim 21 in which the database includes a pattern dictionary which provides a list of common spelling patterns in the English language, the phonetic transcription of each spelling pattern and/or word lists for each spelling pattern. 23. A system as claimed in claim 22 in which each spelling pattern includes a collection of words having an increasing number of syllables and containing a specific pattern. A system as claimed in any one of claims 21 to 23 in which a recorded error word is matched against entries in the dictionary and/or pattern dictionary to provide training words which are presented to the learner as collections of pattern words that include spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions, syllable divisions and/or related words to the learner.

A system as claimed in claims 13 to 24 in which the software program will store and sort a reader's error history and any error pattern that presents itself in that history to compile error history records.

A system as claimed in claim 25 in which the software program cross- references words in the error history records against the database and directs a reader to a second or subsequent passage based the recorded error words and/or training words such that the second or subsequent passage includes words having similar and/or associated spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions to the error words and/or the training words.

A system as claimed in claim 26 in which words having similar and/or associated spelling patterns, phonetic transcriptions and/or syllable divisions to the error words and/or the training words corresponding to words in the error history records presented in second and/or subsequent passages are highlighted on the interface to draw a reader's attention to potentially problematic words.

A system as claimed in claim 13 to 27 in which when the reader does not understand a word presented in a reading passage, the reader can select the word using the computer input control and a cursor whereupon the software program will display the pronunciation and meaning in a new window on the monitor and after which, when the window is closed using the computer input control and a cursor, the reader will continue reading the passage.

29. A system as claimed in claim 28 in which the software program stores the selected word in a vocabulary listing.

30. A system as claimed in claim 29 in which the program interface provides a link through which the vocabulary listing is accessible.

31 . A system as claimed in claim 29 or claim 30 in which at least one word of the vocabulary listing is used to select the second and/or subsequent passages.