Tchers' Den Word Safari

Build sight-word mastery, vocabulary, and quick comprehension—one joyful tap at a time.

What Is Word Safari?

Word Safari (Emoji Edition) is a playful, classroom-ready reading game designed for Grade 1 to 3 learners. A large, colourful emoji appears at the top of the screen—think 🐱, 🐢, 🍎, or 🚗—and three word choices float across the canvas. Pupils tap the correct word that matches the picture before it drifts away. The game gives instant audio feedback, awards points for correct answers, and gently encourages improvement after mistakes. It’s simple, engaging, and perfect for short learning bursts in class or at home.

Key Features

• Multi-Level Design: Grade 1 (sight words), Grade 2 (familiar vocabulary), Grade 3 (broader word set and faster pace).
• Clear Visuals: Big emoji prompt with high-contrast, pill-style word choices for easy readability.
• 3 Choices Only: Keeps decisions focused and age-appropriate while still challenging.
• Offline & Self-Contained: No external files or internet required once loaded.
• Motivating Sounds: Friendly beeps celebrate correct answers and help learners notice errors calmly.
• Sequential or Shuffled: Choose a fixed order for review or a randomised sequence for replay value.
• Tchers’ Den Themes: Vivid backgrounds (Safari, Ocean, Space, Jungle) to keep kids excited and attentive.

How to Play

1. Look: Check the large emoji at the top (e.g., 🐶).
2. Think: Say the word aloud—this strengthens decoding and confidence.
3. Tap: Choose the matching word from the three floating options (e.g., “dog”).
4. Score: Earn points for correct answers and build streaks for bonus time.
5. Advance: Move through levels; visuals animate gently while keeping text legible.

Tip for teachers: Encourage call-and-response (“What do we see?” “Dog!”) before tapping. This adds oral practice without slowing the game.

Levels & Progression

• Grade 1: High-frequency sight words with very familiar pictures (cat, sun, milk). Slowest speed for success and confidence.
• Grade 2: Wider everyday vocabulary (turtle, pencil, juice, train) with steady pace and consistent three-option choices.
• Grade 3: Broader set, slightly faster movement, and more items per session to build fluency and rapid recognition.

Why It Works (Advantages)

• Builds automaticity: Repeated, fast visual-to-word matching strengthens sight-word recognition.
• Supports vocabulary growth: Carefully chosen words connect to everyday life, animals, food, school items, vehicles, and nature.
• Boosts engagement: Bright themes, emoji prompts, and gentle sounds keep learners motivated and focused.
• Inclusive pacing: Smooth movement and a cap on speed help emerging readers succeed without frustration.
• Flexible use: Perfect for warm-ups, literacy stations, early finishers, remediation, and home practice.
• Teacher-friendly: Self-contained, low-prep, and easy to explain—press Start, and reading practice begins.

Classroom & Home Tips

• Mini-Rounds: 3–5 minutes at the start or end of class sustain energy without fatigue.
• Pair Play: Partner stronger and emerging readers; let them discuss before tapping.
• Word Talk: After a round, ask, “What clues helped you pick that word?” to build metacognition.
• Celebrate Streaks: Acknowledge progress (“Five in a row!”) to reinforce confidence.

Ready to play? Launch the Word Safari game below and watch learners smile, read, and grow. 💡

Tchers’ Den — Inspiring joyful learning, one tap at a time.

🎮 Play Word Safari