CD-ROM Reviews: May, 2005

-- School Library Journal, 5/1/2005

Science

Birds. 1 CD-ROM. Systems: Win 98 & later, Macintosh. Discovery Channel School. 2004. ISBN 1-58738-519-8. $59.95.

Gr 6-12–In this interactive program, users can visit five main “rooms”: the “Library,” with relevant information from the World Book Encyclopedia; the “Theater,” to see five video clips on birds and flight; the “Laboratory,” with seven extension activities (“Teasers,” “Circle Logic,” “Eyewitness,” “Investigations,” “Categories,” “Can you Relate,” “What If”); “Simulations,” with four experimental activities (“Ocean Ecosystems,” “Flight,” “Evidence of Evolution,” “Scientific Inquiry”); and “Studio,” where users can create a slide show on birds and flight. There is a journal (which can be printed) where students can enter their observations and comments. The information presented is fascinating and age-appropriate, from the scientist studying macaws to the airplane design segment in which students select wing width, length, and cargo weight to design the best possible plane for the job. Drop-down menus make navigation easy. The videos in the Theater play well, with an option of expanding to full screen or a smaller display with captions. Each of the simulations has numerous activities with printable handouts which can be used to differentiate the lessons for different ability or grade level groups. This program could be used to teach life sciences, physics, or the scientific method. It is an excellent resource to use with a projector for the whole class or for students to use in groups or individually–Suzanne Libra, Huron Middle School, Northglenn, CO

Browse the April CD-ROM reviews