WordQ and SpeakQ is designed for those who struggle with writing. It enables just about anyone to write, edit and proofread with ease. The tool is packed with super useful – yet super simple - functions that help to remove obstacles that make writing difficult, like typing, spelling and punctuation. It even helps clear up confusion about words that sound the same (e.g., “their and there”). With WordQ and SpeakQ, you can focus on exploring your ideas while the software helps you build well-structured sentences to create flow through your work.
WordQ
WordQ is a writing tool that empowers students to independently write their own ideas, and check spelling, grammar and punctuation, to become more confident writers. It suggests words and provides spoken feedback so students hear sentences repeated and can detect mistakes as they go.
SpeakQ
SpeakQ plugs into WordQ to add simple speech recognition to the powerful word prediction of WordQ. The WordQ and SpeakQ interface displays a handful of powerful buttons that can be accessed through hotkeys or the mouse.
Mic
While speaking, the Mic or microphone button can be left on for continuous dictation or used only when you need assistance with a single word or part of a sentence.
Speak and Select
Speak and Select provide you with a list of possible words and phrases to choose from. Use the mouse or arrow keys to hear each choice read aloud and then select the one you like.
Words
By turning the Words button on or off, you can have constant editing help while you write. It helps with spelling and word variety and offers assistance with every letter you type. Or, if you prefer, you can just turn it on when you are stuck on a word.
Speech
The Speech button lets you hear the words as you type them and also hear the sentences you complete. You can listen to each of the options in the word box as well as examples for words with similar meaning. Because the read-back is clear and uses proper rhythm, most mistakes in grammar, spelling or punctuation are more noticeable.
Read
Select some text and hit the Read button to hear it read aloud. This works anywhere there is text that you can highlight, like web pages, emails, and instant-messaging programs like Skype.
New in Version 3
New in version 3, WordQ is now available in English, Spanish, French and German, and all of the voices can now be downloaded online.
Additional features new to version 3 include:
- Available on a DVD instead of a CD or as a download
- Synonyms are available from the prediction box, to help find the right words
- Programmable abbreviations (e.g., program the word “myemail” to expand into myname@mydomain.com". Or “myaddress”, “myschool”, etc.)
- Streamlined and improved installation process
- "Check for Update" added for easy updating: options/help
<.li>"Open at Login", auto-launch WordQ when getting started: options/preferences
WordQ and Reading
WordQ is primarily a writing tool, but it can also assist with reading. Anywhere that text can be selected, you can hear it read aloud. This applies to popular programs like Facebook and Twitter, your emails or any of your favorite websites. It's also ideal for work and school-related tasks where reading and writing is required. By making sense of the words in front of you, listening, reading and writing skills are being developed at the same time.
