Comparison of Add-A-Word and Compu Spell Programs With Low-Achieving Students

The purpose of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two spelling programs on the weekly spelling performance of 5 underachieving elementary school students. The subjects were 3 boys and 2 girls between the ages of 8.3 and 9.6 years. The students were identified as being the poorest spellers in a Grade 3 class. The spelling programs compared were the Add-A-Word Spelling Program and Compu Spell (a commercial computer spelling program). Data were gathered on spelling accuracy in both the regular classroom and in the learning assistance classroom (special education class) throughout an entire school year. A multi-element baseline design was used to compare the effectiveness of each program. The results indicated that both programs improved the spelling achievement of the students and that this improvement was sustained throughout the duration of the study. Reasons for the outcomes are discussed.