NoRedInk Reviews

“Must-have writing assistant

Pros

NoRedInk makes learning grammar and conventions incredibly easy and enjoyable. By tailoring sentences to students' interests and requiring them to really understand the topics, it offers a learning experience unlike anything else I have seen. It's super simple to get started, very user friendly and the free subscription already includes a wide range of useful tools for students to practice with.

Cons

There's very little I dislike but two things stand out. First is the price, while it's a fantastic tool the cost can be hard to swallow. Second, some of the built in lessons don't meet expectations. If users are willing to supplement with outside resources, it works well. Including video tutorials like those on Khan Academy would make it even better.

“Good but could be better

Pros

The basic features like signing up, logging in and navigating the site are all so simple and user-friendly.

Cons

The website fails to provide an effective learning experience because of its unorthodox method for completing tasks... their approach of making users correct every single mistake does not fulfill its intended purpose and instead feels more like a test of patience, rather than genuinely helping the user learn.

“Not recommended

Pros

Honestly, I really dislike this platform. I find it very ineffective for students.

Cons

It tends to stress students out a lot and many really dislike using it.

“Great for students

Pros

My students can work completely independently with NoRedInk, which I appreciate. It complements direct teaching well because they can practice grammar at their own pace after lessons. The fact that students can choose familiar media like Shrek or Diary of a Wimpy Kid to keep practice sentences interesting really helps engagement. Also, the Guided Drafts and pre-writing tools are invaluable and they simplify writing for students at every level. I also appreciate that it grades student work and compiles class-wide data on strengths and weaknesses, with attached rubrics that make grading straightforward.

Cons

I wish it had the ability to sync grades directly into PowerSchool, Google Classroom or other learning management systems to make grading easier.

“So helpful for teachers

Pros

I like that teachers can leave personalized notes to help students improve their writing. The platform's features for practicing grammar and writing conventions are also very useful.

Cons

Setting up students in NoRedInk classrooms is a bit challenging and not very intuitive.

“My students are captivated

Pros

NoRedInk engages students even before they get assignments by letting them select content based on their favorite bands, sports teams or TV shows. It's a simple way to connect writing and grammar practice with their interests.

Cons

Sometimes a student says they don't like any of the content options available. I think that's more about individual preferences than a fault with the software itself.

“Amazing program with diagnostics, reports, and quizzes

Pros

What I love is how it begins by asking students about their interests and then uses their friends' names and favorite things throughout the exercises. This really keeps students engaged.

Cons

It can be a little tough for lower level students to navigate. I teach 4th grade but it feels designed mostly for 3rd grade and above. Students who function closer to 1st or 2nd-grade levels academically struggle more than others.