Ako Sipela

Unlike for English, high-quality, science-backed phonics materials for the Tongan language simply do not exist. Research shows that children who master phonics in their native language are far more likely to succeed when it comes to learning English at school. Friends of Tonga adapted SIL Global’s award-winning Alpha Tiles app framework, developed by literacy experts, to meet the educational needs of Tongan learners all over the globe, from Tongatapu to Niuatoputapu to Sydney to Salt Lake City.

Ako Sipela is a game featuring 100+ levels that teaches players the letters of the Tongan alphabet, including uppercase and lowercase and the fakaʻua and toloi diacritics, as well as how to spell 450+ of the most common words. You can play without internet, and up to 9 players can share the same device. Try it today!

 

About

The app project, a Friends of Tonga initiative, was led and developed by former United States Peace Corps Volunteer Andrew Pavey. Litea Lave of Tofoa, Tongatapu, a teacher at Tonga Side School, recorded all audio and provided linguistic and cultural expertise. Over 70% of Tongan households lack reading materials for kids, according to a 2017 World Bank report. Following the success of our Tau Laukonga reading apps, Ako Sipela is the next step towards ensuring that kids can read successfully in Tongan.