UK tool powers language learning through stories

An innovative English learning tool devised by a UK-based Indian-origin edtech entrepreneur using classic stories is now being used by children in India to help enhance literacy outcomes and bridge gaps in speech.

Power Vocabulary, conceptualised by Champs Learning founder Nishikant Kothikar, was originally designed for the England school curriculum but has proved very effective in India, where English proficiency is seen as vital for academic success and competitive exams. 

“The majority of people use the same 500 words, so our children tend to follow what they hear. The only way to expand your vocabulary is by reading. The more you read, the wider the scope, the better your language skills become,” said Kothikar.

Learning from his own educational experiences, the edtech expert was inspired to create Power Vocabulary to help pupils move beyond rote memorisation to a more enga­ging learning method by assoc­iating words with images and stories. The module claims to be unlike conventional vocabulary apps or rote word lists because it is story-driven and visual-based. 

Power Vocabulary functions by offering words selected from classic children’s literature, visual imagery for strong word associations, audio pronunciation guides with easy phonetic cues and a structured weekly learning model aligned with book-based modules.

Children who use the online tool engage with 8 classic books across eight modules, reinforced by weekly videos placing vocabulary in story context. 

This multi-sensory approach enhances memory retention, making language learning fun, intuitive, and lasting. Its simplicity and use of children’s adventure stories are said to captivate learners and motivate continued reading.