Expert-ranked reading apps for comprehension, vocabulary, and independent reading — perfect for ages 10-11.
Epic! provides access to a library of 40,000+ children's books, audiobooks, and educational videos. $84.99/year or $13.99/month.
Newsela adapts real news articles to 5 different reading levels, making current events accessible to students grades 2-12.
IXL is a comprehensive adaptive learning platform covering all subjects from Pre-K through 12th grade.
Raz-Kids (by Learning A-Z) provides a leveled reading library with 800+ eBooks across 29 levels, audio support, and comprehension quizzes. $132/year for up to 36 students.
Lexia Core5 is a research-backed adaptive reading program used in 1 in 4 US schools. Strong focus on Science of Reading principles and early literacy intervention.
SpellingJoy is a 100% free spelling practice platform for K-6 students. Unlimited spelling games, unlimited tests, 134+ word lists, custom list creation, and progress tracking - all completely free with no subscriptions and no hidden costs.
Epic! is the best overall reading app for 5th graders. With 40,000+ books from quality publishers, audiobooks, offline reading, and up to 4 kid profiles, it gives 10-11 year olds a massive library at their fingertips. For nonfiction and current events, Newsela is an excellent choice with articles adapted to 5 reading levels.
For strong independent readers, Newsela keeps kids engaged with real-world current events adapted to their reading level. Epic! also works well since advanced 5th graders can explore chapter books and nonfiction independently. Both apps let kids choose what interests them, building a lifelong reading habit.
IXL offers the strongest vocabulary practice for 5th graders with adaptive drills that adjust to each student's level. BrainPOP builds vocabulary through animated videos that make new words stick in context. For spelling-focused vocabulary work, SpellingJoy is 100% free with 134+ word lists covering 5th grade words.
Yes. SpellingJoy is completely free for spelling and vocabulary practice. Raz-Kids and Epic! are free for teachers during school hours. Newsela offers free access for classrooms. For a fully free home option, your local library's digital collection through apps like Sora provides thousands of eBooks and audiobooks at no cost.
Epic! is the best overall reading app for 5th graders with its massive library of 40,000+ books, audiobooks, and offline reading. For building real-world reading skills, Newsela is unbeatable with current events adapted to your child's level.
If your 5th grader needs vocabulary and comprehension drills, IXL offers adaptive practice across all subjects. For visual learners, BrainPOP makes complex topics click through animated videos.
For spelling and vocabulary practice that costs nothing, try SpellingJoy free — 134+ word lists, unlimited games, and progress tracking with no subscription required.
About the Author
SpellingJoy Team
The SpellingJoy team is dedicated to creating free, high-quality spelling resources for K-6 students and their families. We test every app we review and provide honest assessments to help parents make informed decisions.