Covering a range of abilities from beginners to advanced, the French Vocabulary Builder is the next generation of language dictionary.

Installing the CD-Rom takes a matter of minutes, followed by an opening screen and demo movie that is difficult to stop.

The core element of this program is the dictionary, and this is quick to open because it is displayed as an icon in the bottom right corner of the screen. However, you'll need to load the CD-Rom to see its features in full.

The dictionary is straightforward to use. You are able to scroll down or type the first letters of a word to look for it. Switching between English and French is easy using the tabs at the top of the screen.

You can choose between a full version of the dictionary, with examples of contexts, or a shorter version for quick use.

A loudspeaker symbol can be clicked upon to hear the word pronounced and you can add words you want to learn to a memo pad.

A separate section requires you to enter your name to keep track of your progress and here you'll find a series of learning games such as crosswords with French or English clues on a translation shooting gallery.

There are various difficulty levels to choose from and you can also practice with words you've added to your memo pad. The shooting gallery is exacting, as you need to know how to add accents.

Price: £19.99

Contact: Intense Education Limited 01425 280828
www.intense.co.uk