2000 Notable Computer Software for Children
2000 Notable Computer Software for Children Committee: A. Jeanie McNamara, Chair. International Trainer for Safari Technologies and Adjunct Instructor for USC-B in Children's Literature (SC); K. Elizabeth Beazizo, Librarian, Waldo Middle School, Salem-Keizer School District (OR); Roxanne Burg, Library Services Supervisor, Thousand Oaks Library System (CA); Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Children's Services Supervisor, Carroll County Public Library (MD); Michael A. Perry, Children's Librarian, Indianapolis-Marion County Public Library (IN)
These titles are selected by the above committee of librarians and educators from across the country on the basis of their originality, creativity, and suitability for young children. The members select materials that respect both children's intelligence and imagination, exhibit venturesome creativity, and encourage the interests of users.
Encarta Africana 2000 by Microsoft, Inc.
Multimedia PC with Pentium or higher and Win95/98
One disk
Copyright 1999
SRP $69.95
African and African-American cultures are deftly presented in this multimedia experience. Timelines, images, and sounds draw the user into a detailed exploration of African cultures, from music and history to biography and traditions. Spanning the history of ancient civilizations to the more recent accomplishments of African American cultures, this encyclopedia succeeds in giving the user a well-rounded and informed perspective.
Encarta Interactive World Atlas 2000 by Microsoft, Inc.
Multimedia PC with Pentium or higher and Win95/98
One disk and an installation and resources disk
Copyright 1999
SRP $54
A virtual tour of the world, this atlas allows the user to view the Earth in 21 different map styles, ranging from political maps to a topographical presentation. Students can even explore a view of the Earth at night. Using the familiar browser interface, brief articles, sounds, links to the Internet and images are just a mouse click away. The focused and detailed presentation, along with the ability to copy maps and other information into other documents, makes this product an essential tool in both the library and the home.
The Magic School Bus Explores The World of Animals by Microsoft Inc.
Multimedia PC with Pentium or higher and Win 95/98
One disk.
Copyright 1999
SRP $19.95
Ages 6 to 10
Excellent graphics, solid information, and lots of humor combine in this fun exploration of the animal kingdom. Users can explore Ms. Frizzle's classroom and her students' reports (a mix of animation, photos, and live action video) to learn all about specific animals. Then they can hop aboard the Magic School Bus itself to investigate biomes all over the world. Games in each biome educate about specific concepts, such as food chains, camouflage, and even scat. Users are additionally challenged to find animals which are in the wrong environment. A fun, interactive introduction to animals of all kinds.
Mind Twister Math by Edmark
Multimedia PC with Pentium or higher and Win95/98 or
PowerPC or better with System 7.1.2 or higher
One disk.
Copyright 1999
Consumer version SRP: $29.95
School version (2 CD's) SRP: $49.95
Grades 3 to 4
Edmark's Mind Twister Math offers unique and enticing opportunities for kids to practice basic math and problem-solving skills. A game-show approach hosted by two encouraging announcers provides four difficulty levels for kids to challenge themselves or up to two other players. Games include Mental Math, Numbug Hunt and Totally Twisters. A great way to have kids practice math at home or in the classroom.
Music Ace 2 by Harmonic Vision
Multimedia PC with Pentium or higher and Win95/98 or
Macintosh 68040 @ 33 Mhz or higher with System 7.5 or higher
One disk.
Copyright 1999
SRP: $49.95
School versions: $79.95
Ages 8 to Adult
Join Maestro Max and The Singing Notes as they explore the world of music in this sequel to Music Ace. Included are interactive lessons and games on rhythm, note reading, keyboard basics and more. Colorful and entertaining graphics introduce children to standard notation and reinforce the lessons. An especially nice feature is the addition of classical music as the background to many of the lessons. This CD-ROM also includes games and the "doodle pad" where children can create their own tunes.
Virtual Labs: Electricity by Edmark
Multimedia PC with Pentium or higher and Win95/98 or
PowerPC or better with System 7.0.1 or higher
One disk.
Copyright 1999
$79.95
Grades 6 to 12
An interactive workspace entices children in grades 6 and up to explore the scientific concepts involved in building electrical circuits. These concepts range from a simple battery and bulb exercise to problem solving of electrical diagrams. Includes the virtual laboratory, the Sci-Clopedia (a multimedia reference tool) and articles from the World Book Multimedia Encyclopedia. As a bonus, a Teacher's Guide includes over 40 lab worksheets as well as away-from-the-computer activities. A great preparation for science fair projects.
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