Wordle is a great resource for language arts. Spelling and vocabulary. It has logical guessing, pattern recognition of letters and instant visual feedback. The Unl limited version means Wordle can be used practically within the classroom.

Why the normal version of Wordle is not suitable

The normal Wordle only has one puzzle per day. This leads to issues when using it within the classroom.

It means that once one person has solved/seen the answer, no one else can play it. You cannot replay it. Plus, lessons are rarely just one puzzle long.

The Wordle Unlimited version allows you to play multiple times. After solving one puzzle all the students can click play again and instantly get a new random unlimited word. Whole lessons can be played with multiple rounds.

Practical uses within the classroom

Warm up vocabulary

Many teachers use Wordle as a warm up for the start of their lesson. By playing for 5 minutes students are able to practice using their knowledge of letters, spelling patterns and vocabulary. It adds a competitive edge to the lesson by asking who can finish in the least number of guesses.

Spelling Patterns

The Wordle Unlimited version can be used to target specific spelling patterns. As there is a large range of vocabulary within the game students will come across many common spelling patterns. Silent letters, consonant blends, vowel digraphs and irregular plurals. Through the constraints of the game students will process the spelling patterns.

Vocabulary

The advanced students will benefit from coming across new 5 letter words. Each game can be turned into a mini vocabulary lesson by discussing why their guess was close but incorrect. And what the correct word means. The teacher can stop the game after each round and ask the students to use the word in a sentence.

Differentiation

As the Wordle Unlimited can be played flexibly teachers can set different amounts of rounds for different ability students. Advanced students will have more games to complete. Lower ability students will have more chances and the teacher can help them through the game. Some teachers use the Wordle Unlimited on the interactive whiteboard and solve it as a group.

Considerations for different year groups

Elementary (Year 3-5). 5 letter words can be difficult for younger children. Some teachers use a simpler version of Wordle with 4 letter words (Wordle Jr versions). However, Wordle Unlimited can be used with 4th and 5th grade students as they have a good foundation of vocabulary.

Middle School (Year 6-8). The normal version is great. Students benefit from the deductive reasoning aspect.

High School. The Wordle Unlimited can be used as a resource for ESL/EFL. Non native English speakers can practice common English patterns.

Tips for teachers

No log ins needed. Most sites do not require students to create accounts or give any personal details. They can play the Wordle Unlimited. Play the game live on the screen. Ask students why they chose their first word and what information it gave them after each round. Keep a class list of the vocabulary used in the Wordle Unlimited. Have a look through the list occasionally.

Skills

The skills practiced within Wordle are pattern recognition, hypothesis, deduction and vocabulary. These match the literacy and critical thinking objectives across the curriculum. The Wordle Unlimited version is a free, practical way for teachers to incorporate these skills.