We now have a high-school student in our homeschool. Things that we never really had to think about…we now have to think about! We have to consider grades, transcripts, and (gasp!) SAT preparation.
Since vocabulary is worth up to 150 points on the SAT, finding an effective method for learning and retaining words is going to have to be a priority. There are many methods out there, but I’d like to introduce you to one of them now.
Vocab Videos is just that–an online video-driven system for studying and learning vocabulary. From their website:
Vocab Videos combines memorable videos that students love and an extensive suite of digital study resources that reinforce vocabulary knowledge. The result is an engaging and highly effective interactive vocabulary system that enables students to:
EXPERIENCE vocabulary
LEARN vocabulary
MASTER vocabulary
Specially designed features allow educators to monitor student progress and ensure their class is maximizing their Vocab Videos experience.
And here is a little about the videos themselves:
- Hilarious professionally produced short videos illustrate the meanings of 500 essential SAT and high school vocabulary words
- Organized into episodes of 20 words (approximately 10 minutes), forming 25 unforgettable miniseries
- Outrageous plotlines and entertaining characters engage students and (dare we say) make learning fun!
- Parodies of popular TV shows like Lost, The Office, 24, and Gossip Girl connect students to the material, presenting vocabulary to them in a context they can relate to and enjoy
The nice thing about Vocab Videos is that there are a wealth of study aids that accompany the videos that students themselves can create and use! They can make up their own lists, flashcards, puzzles, worksheets, and quizzes. There is even a student dashboard that allows them to have all their study helps accessible from one location.
Educators can subscribe to a 12-month unlimited access package that includes the ability to monitor students’ progress for $74.99 (up to 20 students). Or you can sign up a student only for a 6-month membership at $24.99 or 12-month membership at $39.99. If you would like to check them out first, they offer a one-month free trial.
Now, here are my thoughts:
I was pretty excited when I heard about Vocab Videos. The concept of combining videos and vocabulary is a great one! As I read through all the information on their website, I couldn’t wait to let my oldest start to watch and work with the videos and study tools. Unfortunately, because of some of the content and language of the videos themselves, neither one of us felt comfortable spending a lot of time watching the videos. Again, I believe the concept of combining engaging video with vocabulary words can be a very effective study method, but even though I was warned about some of the language and references, I was just a bit disappointed in the videos. And, truthfully, my daughter didn’t think they were all that funny.
I applaud Vocab Videos for the innovative method they have created for helping high school students prepare for that all-important vocabulary section of the SAT. However, I don’t think we will be using the program much after this.
But don’t just take my “take” on it! Read other reviews from the TOS Crew by using the link below:
(The legal stuff: I was given a subscription to Vocab Videos at no charge in exchange for an honest review.)
What a great concept — I told my husband all about the product before I had even finished the review. I am excited to think that there might be more things like this in the future.
Good review!!
Yes, they really are onto a good idea here! And for adults or older high school kids who are familiar with shows like The Office, Lost, Gossip Girl, etc. the videos would probably be a lot funnier. Thanks for the encouraging words!
What a great concept — I told my husband all about the product before I had even finished the review. I am excited to think that there might be more things like this in the future.
Good review!!
Yes, they really are onto a good idea here! And for adults or older high school kids who are familiar with shows like The Office, Lost, Gossip Girl, etc. the videos would probably be a lot funnier. Thanks for the encouraging words!