This fun app helps young learners master their first German letters and words. ZEBRA WRITING TABLE, a companion to the Ernst Klett Verlag German textbook ZEBRA (but usable independently), offers a structured learning journey with videos, games, and diverse exercises covering early literacy skills. It's the first in a series of Zebra apps designed for German reading and writing instruction (Years 1-4).
The app focuses on phonetically-based word writing practice, reinforcing basic letter-sound correspondences. Incorrect spellings are automatically corrected after three attempts, allowing children to compare their work with the correct answer and identify errors. This playful approach fosters basic orthographic awareness. The app's tutorial content varies with each game session to maintain engagement.
Features:
- Child-friendly instructional videos.
- Automatic correction after three incorrect attempts.
- Clearly organized exercises following a learning path.
- Self-directed learning options.
- Star and trophy rewards for motivation.
- Detailed progress reports for teachers and parents.
The app includes two practice areas:
SWINGING SYLLABLES AND WRITING: Introduces the writing table with exercises like:
- Initial-sound rap.
- "Speak - listen - swing" video.
- "Hear and swing" task.
- "ZEBRA writing table game."
- "Writing with the ZEBRA writing table" video.
- "Swing and write" tasks (easy and difficult levels).
HEARING SOUNDS: Offers phonological awareness exercises crucial for literacy development, including:
- Which word begins with...?
- Which words sound similar at the beginning?
- Where do you hear the sound in the word?
- With which sound does the word begin?
(Note: In-app purchases for the "Hearing Sounds" section have been removed in version 3.3.4.)
Version 3.3.4 (October 29, 2024) updates include added sound gesture exercises, removal of in-app purchases, and general technical improvements. The Zebra Team invites feedback from users.
