Smart Kids Discovering Life Science Experiments

• Platform:    Windows, Macintosh
• Media: CD-ROM
• Item Quantity: 1

As well as an explanation to what has happened, each experiment is accompanied by an account of how this knowledge can be applied in everyday life, a brief history and a look into the future. Experiments are also offered that can be done away from the computer. Required equipment for each experiment and full instructions are both clearly set out, though some parental guidance may be needed to complete some of the tasks.

The computer program has an interesting layout, with "holes" on the screen to click on. These little "holes" correspond to the different levels of introduction, experiment and application. At the bottom of the screen is the navigation bar, which the program refers to as "the navigation palette". This is unusual as it has the appearance of small black humps with writing on. They move up and down and each hump plays a musical note, adding an extra element of fun. From the navigation bar you can exit, get help, search and return to the beginning of the program.

A handy search tool means you can find everything on the CD-ROM, and a question facility means you can browse by subject area. Click on the "Discipline" circle and you will find all the experiments arranged by scientific discipline. Click on the circle marked "Paths" and you will bring up a picture of a Smart Kid, as well as a list of questions and phrases they can answer. The facility to search alphabetically is also available, though this is not always absolutely accurate; for instance typing in the word "plant" brings up phrases and questions to do with planets. The editing workshop allows users to write, draw or retrieve text from experiments or fact sheets.

There are 100 interactive experiments on the disc and 30 scientific topics are tackled including physics, biology, chemistry, matter, ecology, mechanics, energy, oceanology, meteorology and health. This program would be great for assisting with scientific homework given to the older Junior and High School student. Also included is an instruction booklet that explains the meaning of all the different round circles that appear on the screen--handy if users become confused.

This is an unusual program: the organisation is not immediately obvious and the interface is novel and different from most similar programs on the market. Very easy to install, this is a very good learning tool that will foster an interest in science and make learning fun for children aged 8 and older. --Jenny Franklin

Manufacturer's Description
Hands-On Experiments for Smart Kids helps answer all your questions about the world around you. To help understand the great scientific phenomena, you can do 100 fun interactive experiments with water, gas, parachutes, telescopes and pulleys. Maria, Sylvester, Louis, Lola and Elvis guide you as you explore. Each Smart Kid offers you a "path" of experiments on a scientific theme such as water, air, matter and living in water. Meanwhile Mus, the Super Smart Kid, watches, listens and makes suggestions depending on what you like best. Use the objects in the workshop, and use your imagination. There are no good or bad marks here: you can make mistakes, look around and start the experiment again as many times as you want.

• Software > Budget Software
• Software > Children's Fun & Learning > Children's Reference
• Software > Education & Reference > Educational Subjects > Science
• Software > Education & Reference > Reference > Children's Reference
• Software > Software under £10