Quizlet For English Language Learning

In class today as a group we explored the app and website Quizlet. My group included Hala, Katherine, Caitie. Although we were looking at the usefulness of Quizlet in any class, I thought it also would have some uses in teaching ELL. Quizlet is an app or website that allows you to create flashcards or use some pre-made flashcards for various subjects. Overall, it can be used for self-study or as a classroom aid.

 

Some of the advantages of Quizlet are:

1. The Flashcards can be read aloud.

2.  Flashcards can be shown with the definition first, the term side first, or a mixture of both.

3. It provides study games! For example:  Gravity Game: type the answer to the study questions from the flashcards in order to save the planet from asteroids.

3. It has the option to Tracks progress with studying. For example, it records the number of correct/incorrect responses you made.

In learn mode, you have to answer each term correctly twice to finish it.

In the matching mode, you have to drag the correct definitions to the terms for them to disappear.

4. You can create a “class” and use for certain classrooms/categories. 

5. You don’t necessarily need the upgraded version to use this app. The free version works well. 

6. The Leader board for study games adds a competition aspect that can encourage students to study.

However, there are disadvantages to Quizlet

  1. No real social aspect of studying on Quizlet. Unlike an app like Duo-Lingo, there is not really the same addictive quality and smoothness.
  2. Quizlet is an Ad-supported free version that can be distracting for students who are already challenged learning a new language.
  3. Quizlet does not have an easy way to print out the cards if you want a physical copy.
  4. With apps like Duolingo cards and ways of studying are premade.  On Quizlet the majority are available in an upgraded form or at a certain price.
  5. The cards that are free or you can buy are made by the public. Therefore, there is a lack of editing and anyone can make cards. 

Here is how to make a classroom on Quizlet: https://vimeo.com/266414654?ref=fb-share&fbclid=IwAR0uZ_UhEYwiCWBK1p6pnmEgHXFsKIL8LkBkD9kFUj0cs94opHbOfCuVB-A

Overall, Quizlet is a good resource for ELL students. The Cue Cards could have the translated word on one side and the English side on the other. Students could then read the word in English and if they do not understand it is easy for them to flip the card. The matching and game activities provide students with a more “Fun” Way to learn. However, I think apps like Duo Lingo, which my next blog post will most likely be about, are much better at that aspect. 🙂