A method and apparatus for teaching readers including providing a placement spelling, placement listening vocabulary and speed test through a computer. A speed coefficient based on results from the placement tests is computed. A starting word list is determined based on the results of the tests. A listening vocabulary skill score is compared to a spelling skill score to determine a teaching program to present through the computer. The method includes a vocabulary loop, a spelling loop and a speed test applied to the word list and wherein the speed test results determine the value of the coefficient applied to a next word list.