WriteType A Great FREE Word Processing Software

I'm always on the lookout for good educational software for the kids. Recently I was browsing through my Linux software center and found a program called WriteType.

I had to try it out, and I have to say I'm impressed! WriteType is a free word processor for Linux and Windows. It's intended for children or anyone who wants just a simple word processor.

As you start writing, WriteType tries to guess what word you're trying to spell. On the right-hand side of the screen is a word list that adjusts as your typing.

This is great for children who can READ the word just fine but might have trouble spelling it on their own.

Spelling mistakes are underlined with a red line as in most word processors. I like that it also underlines most grammar mistakes in blue. If you start a sentence and don't capitalize the letter, it is underlined in blue.

When the student right-clicks on the blue line, it will tell them what the mistake is. Then they can fix it or let the program fix it for them.

WriteType also has an option to read the text back to you. My children have been using this for the past week and just love it. I've found that it helps them to keep writing their thoughts and not to have the pattern interrupted to look up a word.

If you would like to try WriteType and use Linux, it is likely in your package manager or software center. It can also be downloaded for Linux, or Windows on their website.  I think this will be used in our home for years!