# Sounds English: Learn to Read — Reading & Speaking for Kids > Phonics-based English reading and pronunciation program for children and learners. (iPhone/iPad app by Zaprendo Ltd.) - Source: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/sounds-english-learn-to-read/id1319413243 (this page in markdown: same URL + `.md`) - Developer: [Zaprendo Ltd](https://appshunter.io/developer/1220314881) - Category: Education, Games - Price: Free - Rating: 4.25/5 from 4 App Store ratings · 4 written reviews indexed - Age rating: 4+ - Requires: iOS 10.0 · 590 MB - Languages: English - Released: 2018-01-04 - Data updated: 2026-06-10 - Monetization: free - User reviews in markdown: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/sounds-english-learn-to-read/id1319413243/reviews.md ## What is Sounds English? Sounds English is a fun, award winning English reading programme used by thousands of children across the world. It accelerates learning to read English in just 15 minutes a day and teaches perfect pronunciation. An independent study, analysed by the University of Surrey, showed Sounds English to be nearly three times more effective than standard programmes within a period of only 30 days. Parents and teachers have seen significant improvements in children’s’ literacy and pronunciation within weeks. Suitable for early readers with a reading age of 6-9 and all learners of English language wanting to learn good English pronunciation. · Easy, and fun to use · Children love the imaginary world of Lumos which builds creativity and engagement · Personalises each student's learning · Uses graphics, speech files and videos to ensure long term retention, and perfect pronunciation. · Employs clever algorithms to teach learners only what they need to know. · Allows learners to progress at their own pace and carries on teaching until learning is secure. Top Features: · Complements all education programmes for use in school or home · Teaches readers to use and say 92 high-frequency ‘written sounds’ as they read unknown words. · Contains over 1800 practice words with learners constantly and discretely checked until learning is secure. · Free trial. No in-game adverts · Suitable for both native and non-native speakers · Dyslexia friendly font used . Choice of American or British English accent In a school study in the UK, students using Sounds English Phonics gained more than 1 year in reading age over a 30-day test period. “Sounds English Phonics is an excellent product which was complementary to our existing teaching programme. I would recommend the app as part of a teacher’s armoury and believe it is a very useful addition for all children learning to read, that can be used either at school or in the home. ” Robert Eves, Grade 3 Teacher, St John’s Green School, Essex My nephew's progress at school was not at the level his parents expected. My sister had purchased Zaprendo, that's how I was first introduced. Watching Greg tonight I was really fascinated. He was truly using a phonetic approach with the words. I need to say again, more than ever that I am blown away by your approach." SW, Teacher and former Principal, NC, USA “The best app for kids for building phonics awareness" BP Atlanta Parents are also impressed with the engagement of their children in the programme and the ability of the programme to build a strong educational foundation. "Graphically it’s stunning. At 7 years old my daughter was struggling with her phonics. This app has helped my daughter where all other aids failed" Mark Folkard, UK “This is an amazing app. I started it with my 9-year-old daughter who I thought was a good reader. When she started, I noticed gaps in her reading ability immediately.” - S McDonald. Educational App Store "This app has been extremely well produced. It is clear to see from both the app itself but also via the developer’s website as well as from the content within the app. Unlike some literacy and phonic apps that claim that they do make a difference this developer has spent time undertaking research in school settings to make sure their app not only meets the needs of schools and the users but that it does have some benefit. It is ‘small’ aspects like this from a developer that really gives confidence in an app when you are choosing between so many apps in such a saturated market especially when school budgets are tight and they are looking to maximise the resources that they do purchase." Use our free in-house diagnostic test to see if Sounds English is suitable for your student/child. Email us at hello@zaprendo.com for a copy, or with questions or for school purchases. ## Key features - Accelerates reading acquisition - Teaches perfect pronunciation - Personalized learning paths - Uses graphics, speech, and video - Teaches 92 high-frequency written sounds - Dyslexia friendly font ## Recent user reviews (4 of 4) All indexed reviews: https://appshunter.io/ios/app/sounds-english-learn-to-read/id1319413243/reviews.md ### 2/5 — 没声音？ *2021-01-12, version 2.11* 想购买 但试用竟然没声音 什么回事 **Developer response:** Please check your phone/iPad as no sound is likely to be a hardware issue. Is the Lock Screen button on or the ringer off? ### 5/5 — Gorgeous app and kids love! *2020-04-26, version 1.90* I love this app and so does my seven year old! It’s a great way to help her keep up with her reading skills when she gets tired of books. ☺️ ### 5/5 — Very helpful *2020-04-20, version 1.90* This app is great practice! My son has a speech delay and really dislikes being told to repeat himself or practice sounds he tries to avoid it being the visual learner that he is, and this app helps give all the visuals while helping him practice. ### 5/5 — Amazing! *2020-04-20, version 1.90* This app is fun, and very helpful for my 8-year-old with articulation problems. She’s interested in it and follows along. Deff worth the price! We “play and practice” every day for 15 mins with this app. Would absolutely recommend to other parents! ## Frequently asked questions about Sounds English ### What is Sounds English? Sounds English is an award-winning English reading program designed to help children learn to read and improve their pronunciation. It uses a phonics-based approach and is suitable for early readers and English language learners. ### How effective is Sounds English? An independent study analyzed by the University of Surrey found Sounds English to be nearly three times more effective than standard programs within 30 days. In a UK school study, students gained over a year in reading age in a 30-day test period. ### What age range is Sounds English for? Sounds English is suitable for early readers with a reading age of 6-9 years old. It is also beneficial for all learners of English who want to develop good English pronunciation. ### Does Sounds English have ads? No, Sounds English does not contain in-game advertisements. The app offers a free trial and is ad-free. ### What learning methodology does Sounds English use? Sounds English employs a phonics-based approach, teaching learners 92 high-frequency 'written sounds' to help them read unknown words. It personalizes learning and uses algorithms to teach only what is needed. ### How does Sounds English track progress? The app allows learners to progress at their own pace and continues teaching until learning is secure. It contains over 1800 practice words with continuous, discreet checking to ensure mastery. ### Is Sounds English suitable for children with dyslexia? Yes, Sounds English uses a dyslexia-friendly font to support learners with dyslexia. It is designed to be accessible and beneficial for a wide range of young readers. ### What English accents does Sounds English offer? Sounds English provides a choice between American or British English accents, allowing learners to practice pronunciation with their preferred accent. ## Version history (last 1 release) ### 2.11 — 2020-12-02 You asked and we listened!  We've added some new features to make learning even easier! Now you can: - Repeat a lesson by tapping on completed written sounds on the Great Learning Tree - Login from any IOS device Have fun learning! 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User reviews are verbatim App Store reviews. Ratings, prices and chart positions refresh continuously; this snapshot is from 2026-06-10.*