Learning English – Using Razkids for English Language Learning and Homeschooling

Stemhouse would like to share with parents how to optimize their child’s English learning time to achieve the highest efficiency in the shortest amount of time. With this method, children can study less compared to others yet make remarkable progress. One of the key tools that can assist parents in implementing this approach is Reading A-Z (Razkids). The following article will guide you on how to use Razkids for English language learning and homeschooling, while also clarifying some common misunderstandings about Razkids.

General information about Razkids

Razkids is an electronic library designed for elementary students in the U.S., developed according to the Common Core State Standards (CCSS), featuring over 2,400 titles in literature, social studies, and natural sciences, categorized into 29 levels. The highest level (Z2) corresponds to 980L, which is suitable for lower secondary school students in Vietnam. However, parents should not take excessive pride when their children complete the Razkids program, as in the U.S., children typically finish the program by the end of 5th grade, or earlier for those with exceptional abilities (3rd-4th grade).

Razkids is not a typical English language learning app. If someone refers to Razkids as an app, they may not fully understand it or might be deliberately misleading. This tool has been rated by more than 18,000 K-5 teachers in the U.S. as the most effective tool for teaching children to read in English.

Razkids is affordable (approximately 200,000-300,000 VND/year) and easy to purchase. Due to its reasonable price, parents are encouraged to buy an official account rather than use an unofficial version, as the true value of Razkids lies not only in the number of books but also in its accompanying functions.

The effectiveness and economy of Razkids for learning English

Razkids is the most effective and economical tool for learning English and mastering reading comprehension according to American standards. If children consistently study with it for 30 minutes a day for at least one year, they are guaranteed to become proficient in English and gain a broader understanding compared to those attending English centers or studying with native speakers over the same period.

If Razkids is used in combination with an English teaching series like EFL/ESL, children will progress twice as fast as those studying at English centers. If Razkids is paired with a homeschooling program that adheres to CCSS standards, children will develop more comprehensively than those participating in homeschooling programs without guidance from educational professionals. If supplemented with activities such as reading printed books, visiting museums, exploring nature, and watching documentaries, children will reach optimal development, and parents will notice significant changes daily.

The value of Razkids for English language learning

1. Developed to meet and support CCSS standards: CCSS is a set of national education standards in the U.S. that outlines the skills children need to acquire in mathematics and English, including the ability to comprehend texts in natural sciences, social studies, and technical subjects. The quizzes following each Razkids book are based on CCSS, helping assess children’s reading comprehension and analytical skills, thereby fostering the development of essential reading skills. Children who answer 80% or more of the questions correctly are considered proficient, while those scoring below this threshold need additional support to reinforce their knowledge.

2. Teacher Account: This is one of the greatest features of Razkids, particularly for those teaching at home. The teacher account allows for tracking children’s learning progress, customizing learning content according to their abilities, and using instructional materials to personalize each child’s learning pathway.

Instructions for using Razkids

• Razkids should be used when children are at least 5 years old and can read. For lower levels (aa to D or E), it should be combined with an English teaching series such as EFL. For higher levels, it should be used alongside a CCSS-compliant ELA program.
• Children should regularly listen, read aloud, and take quizzes for 30 minutes a day. Parents should monitor their learning progress and adjust the level as needed. If the quiz score is over 80% on the first attempt, consider advancing the level. Conversely, if the score is 60% or lower, reduce the level.
• Parents need to help children stay engaged by allowing them to choose books within their level while also assigning books from other genres to promote well-rounded development. The ideal ratio is 1:3 (parents choose 1 book, children choose 3).

Notes on using Razkids

• Do not use Razkids as a storytelling program, as the narration lacks dramatic expression, and the books are not designed for passive listening.
• Do not print lower-level books (aa to LM) and require children to memorize them, as this stage primarily focuses on initial reading comprehension skills.
• Avoid translating the entire content into Vietnamese. Instead, children should use a dictionary to understand the meaning of words and develop the ability to infer meanings from context.

Razkids is a valuable educational tool that helps children quickly develop English skills and expand their knowledge. When used correctly, this tool will help parents save costs and achieve high educational efficiency in a short time.