How Does the Text-to-Speech Feature Work in Alpha Anywhere, and When Is It Available?
Text-to-speech helps students who find reading difficult, or who simply focus and understand better when text is read aloud. In Alpha Anywhere, this support comes in two forms: reading support built into the learning experience for early readers, and Speechify, a dedicated text-to-speech tool we can set up for your child when they need ongoing reading support.
Built-In Reading Support for Early Readers
Multi-modal support through Grade 2 reading mastery: All students receive reading support that combines hearing, seeing, and speaking as part of their lessons until they master Grade 2 reading. No setup is needed; it is part of the program.
The K–2 MAP reading test includes read-aloud audio: Younger students taking the reading assessment hear instructions and content through the test itself. Your child just needs headphones.
Speechify: Extra Reading Support on Request
For students who need reading support beyond the early grades (for example, students with dyslexia or another documented reading accommodation), we provide Speechify, a text-to-speech tool that runs in your child's browser.
Reads content aloud with word highlighting: Speechify reads instructions, passages, and questions aloud while highlighting each word on screen, so reading difficulty doesn't get in the way of showing what your child knows in subjects like math.
Student-controlled: Your child can start, pause, and replay audio whenever they need to hear something again.
Dyslexia-friendly font: Speechify includes a dyslexia-friendly font option (Settings → Accessibility → Dyslexic Font) that we recommend for dyslexic students.
How to Get Speechify
Reach out to [email protected] to request Speechify access for your child.
We attach Speechify to your child's profile. It installs automatically in Chrome on your child's school Google account, usually within 24 hours, and premium access is included through Alpha's school account; your child activates it through the link we provide. Please don't start a personal trial or subscription.
For setting it up on a computer and using it day to day (choosing a voice, reading speed, keyboard shortcuts, reading selected text), see Getting Started with Speechify Desktop App.
Availability During MAP Assessments
Text-to-speech is off by default during the MAP diagnostic: The diagnostic measures your child's independent reading and problem-solving skills. Reading the test aloud would inflate the results and lead to inaccurate placement, so text-to-speech tools are not used during this assessment.
K–2 reading test: Read-aloud audio is already built into the test itself.
Grades 2–5: A text-to-speech accommodation can be added to the test only when the accommodation is documented in your child's record. If your child has a documented reading accommodation, contact [email protected] ahead of test day so it is in place.
Once the diagnostic is complete, Speechify is available for everyday lessons and practice for any student it has been set up for.