Frequently Asked Questions

• Why are the words arranged in random order rather than in alphabetical order?

When the words are given in alphabetical order, the students can anticipate the beginning of each word; our arrangement prevents that and simulates the actual contest. The words on our Previews are arranged alphabetically based on our tests.

• Do you offer any materials where the words are arranged alphabetically and follow the arrangement in the offical booklet?

Yes, for all grade levels we have available Alphabetical Spelling Tests which are based on the 50 word columns in the official booklets.

• If I order the Computer Spelling Tests, do I receive any material except the computer program?

Yes, you also receive the audio CDs and printed copies in the Practice Tests Plus unless you order the CD-ROM only.

• Is your computer program licensed for only one computer?

No. You may install the program on as many computers on campus as you deem necessary and you may send it home with the students to install on their home computers.

• Does the CD have to be in the drive for the SE version to work?
  

No, the program installs on the computer and runs from the hard drive. You may load it on as many computers as you deem necessary allowing several students to practice simultaneously.

• Will the Mac SE version work on my iMac?

Yes, it will!

• What is the difference between the Practice Tests and Practice Tests Plus?

The Practice Tests Plus includes the audio CDs and printed materials in the Practice Tests, but it also has what we call a preview. The preview is made up of an alphabetical pronouncing on audio CD and an alphabetical listing on paper of the words on each test. It enables your students to study sixty words at a time; they can listen to the preview and look at the words on any test prior to taking the test. This approach will help the students manage the list more effectively.

• What do I need for my high school students to prepare them for every aspect of the competition?

Any of our combined packages for high school will adequately prepare them for the pronounced portion of the test and for the proofreading and vocabulary sections.

• What are the additional sets and copies of your materials?

We offer additional sets and copies at reduced prices so that you can have materials for each student; however, before you can purchase additional sets of the audio materials, copies of Word Power Companion, or sets of Vocabulary Flash Cards, you must first purchase the complete package.

• What if I decide later that I want additional copies of some of the materials I have purchased?

If you have ordered the complete package and later decide you need additional sets or copies, it would be best for you to contact us by phone to place your order for the additional materials.

• Do you prepare tests for Invitational Meets?

Yes, we do. You may order by calling 1-800-627-9030; we ask that you order at least one month in advance of your meet date.

• When will my order be shipped?

All orders are normally shipped via UPS the same day we receive them. UPS usually delivers to any point in the state within 2 to 3 days.

• How much do you charge for shipping?

Standard UPS shipping for any package is $6.00; if you want special consideration (overnight, etc.), please call and we can give you an exact rate.

• When are your materials usually ready for each school year?

We usually have our materials ready to ship by the middle of August each year.

• Are the words on this year's list the same words which were on last year's list?

No, the UIL revises the lists for all grade levels every year.

• Where can I get a copy of the official UIL spelling lists?

We send a complimentary copy of the official UIL spelling list with each order. You can order additional copies from the UIL office in Austin; their phone number is 512-471-5883, you can also visit their web site at www.uil.utexas.edu.

• What is the official dictionary for the high school competition?

The official dictionary for the high school competition is The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Third Edition Copyright © 1996, 1992 by Houghton Mifflin Company.

• What is the official dictionary for the junior high and elementary competition?

The official dictionary for the junior high and elementary competition is Merriam Webster's Intermediate Dictionary.

• Do you have a brochure of all your products?

You can browse all of our products at once by using the All Products link in the top and left navigation on every page. If you want a brochure of all our products, you can contact us and we'll be glad to send you one in Microsoft Word format.

• Is your website secure for ordering products?

Yes! We used industry standard 128-bit encryption for all orders placed on our website, so you can feel secure that your transmitted information is safe. In addition, as soon as we've processed your order, we remove your credit card number from our systems so there's never a chance for abuse.