Wordly Wise 3000 (level 9) is a systematic sequential vocabulary development program. My original experience with the Wordly Wise program was about fifteen years ago when a student I was tutoring selected the program. His family had chosen to use only the student book to "save money" which I never recommend since I've found it to be expensive with regards to time investment. Furthermore, the teachers' guide generally gives much-needed tools, strategies, & techniques for successful program implementation.

The Wordly Wise Teachers Guide gives research-based background information, lesson layouts, and a pacing guide. It also includes a sample lesson with a step-by-step walkthrough. The program gives "review exercises that can be used as extension, review, or additional assessment." There are tests for each lesson/chapter as well as standardized test previews and practice. Also included is the word list that allows you to see what will be covered and the amount of coverage for the specific level. Lastly, the answer keys for the student book, lesson review, and tests, allow for independence at this level of learning.

We are blessed as our children have a rich vocabulary partly due to the quality reading materials that have always been readily available. At a very young age, we were quite selective with our book choices and the children have continued this "selective" behavior in their individual reading decisions. Although true, at this level of schooling, test scores become a huge benchmark for college entrance. Thus, I decided we should devote time to explicit vocabulary instruction.

Just made available in 2008 are the audio recordings, which have word lists, definitions, reading passages, and comprehension questions. Another advantage is that the student can use it again and again with correct pronunciation provided without parental guidance.

Another jewel is the online games that apply to the program. You simply log on, choose your book number and lesson number--then purposefully play as this game is all about learning.

Wordly Wise is more than looking up words and memorizing the definitions. This series focuses on context and learning how the words around the word relate to the meaning. It also employs the benefits of seeing words repeatedly in various contexts. Lastly, active processing occurs:

* Producing antonyms & synonyms
* Rewriting definitions
* Identifying examples and non-examples of the word
* Using more than one new word in a sentence
* Sentences creation containing the new word

The methods and exercises presented in the series are in alignment with their statement, "The ultimate goal of Wordly Wise 3000 is to have students develop vocabulary so that they can read with greater fluency."

Product Review by Stephanie D. Scarborough, The Old Schoolhouse® Magazine, LLC, May, 2009