USA Explorer

3/20/00

 

This new program from DK Media is much like World Explorer. If your children enjoyed learning geography with World Explorer, they are sure to like this one. The program is designed for children ages 5-9, an age group that is often ignored in the reference market. Your children will be able to learn from this program regardless of their reading level, because everything is read aloud.

Joe has set off on a trip across the US with his parents. Your child has been invited to stay in his bedroom, keeping track of his travels. Well, that is the original plan anyway. It seems that Joe has forgotten a package, and wants your child to bring it to him. He leaves clues about where he is, but keeps moving as fast are your child can get to the origin of the clue. In this way, they take quite a trek across the country looking for Joe. Along the way, they collect postcards, photos, and stickers as they learn about US geography and culture.

The map of the US is filled with interactive hot spots. Some simply do cute things, while most take you to a place of national interest. A screen pops up such as the one to the right, which teaches your child a bit about a state, a monument, a bit of history, or an important geography lesson. These are short, and understandable for most early elementary aged children. Some spots also include short animated lessons, such as the one on the Atlantic Ocean.

While your child can follow Joe on his exploits, it is also possible to simply travel around at will. Some kids will like the adventure mode, while others will enjoy the free exploration. Back in Joe's bedroom, they can also access their travelogue, collection of postcards, and a few animated videos to watch. The videos were somewhat disappointing, as they had little to do with the US itself. One was on the Arctic, one on Space etc. They were interesting, but did not tie the whole program together well.

You will also find a reference section that tells your children how far it is across the country, as well as show them the tallest buildings, biggest cities, highest mountains and more.

This is a nice introduction to US geography. There is not enough meat here to get a 4th or 5th grader through the reports they will have to do as they study he US. There is enough here, however, to whet their appetite, and perhaps spur your younger kids on to more in-depth study as they grow.

Grading for USA Explorer Educational Value: 4 Entertainment Value: 3 1/2 Replay Value: 3 1/2

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