Word Web operates as a small icon at the bottom of your screen and can be used easily with a variety of text and word processing programs such as Microsoft Word. To check a word, highlight it on your screen the click on the Word Web icon. The window will open to show the various definitions, as well as how the word functions as different parts of speech (nouns, verbs etc). It can provide a list of 'nearest word' (words closest in spelling to that chosen), synonyms and antonyms and a link directly to the relevant Wiktionary and Wikipedia pages.
Word Web is handy because it allows users to access the information which is relevant to them in a timely manner. Looking up a word is fast and simple, and so the flow of writing can continue uninterrupted. Being able to link to Wikipedia pages in particular also encourages students to learn about and experiment with words and expressions as they are working, rather than reverting to the same old words they always use. It is also handy because it is so subtle, which is great for kids who struggle with their spelling and reading skills and need to constantly check and correct their work.
Spelling software for kids needs to be easy for them to operate on their own. As a tool for checking spelling, the function where a 'nearest word' list is generated means students can self correct their work and are more likely to find the word they are searching for.
