First Art: Art Experiences for Toddlers and Twos

Children discover their world and explore 75 fun-filled art adventures - squeeze a rainbow, make safe beads to string, or create an art baggie book. Illustrations

Site: Shared Drawing

Author: Randall Moss

URL: http://www.shareddrawing.com/index.html

Collaborate with others in real-time to create drawings and animation. Take a snapshot of your drawing and add it to the Gallery. Join an online community of artists to create a spectacular, ever evolving hand-drawn film.

Tip: What you Need: 1)A Java enabled web browser. 2) Patience, if you have a 56k or slower connection to the Internet. At 56-kbps, it will take about 25 seconds to load the drawing applet.

Tip: The gallery of snapshots shows 1) what's possible with this wonderful creative online tool, and 2) how much fun artists of all ages are having on this site.

This site is a winner of Dr. Brain's Big Brain Award

Ed Emberly's Big Red Drawing Book

Step-by-step instructions for drawing people, animals, and objects using a minimum of line and circle combinations

Our Animal Friends at Maple Hill Farm

Two dogs, five horses, a pig, some geese, lots of chickens, a few cows, a few goats, several sheep, and four special cats -- these are the animals at Maple Hill Farm

Site: Make a Farm

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/farm.htm

With the free software on this page, kids can print out the pieces to plan and construct a model farm, with a farmhouse, barn, silo, and other buildings. An excellent companion to Make a Town, and Make a Village, below. Link to instructions on site.

Tip: There's a Make a Farm Activity Page on the same site.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Farm Animals

Why do pigs play in the mud? Where do milk and wool come from? Simple text and detailed illustrations will satisfy inquisitive preschoolers who are busy learning about the world around them - Color photos

House

how people lived in every era around the world - from palace to igloo, and such unusual settings as a monastery, a whaling ship, and even a space station

Site: Make a Town

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/town.htm

With the free software on this page, kids can print out the pieces to plan and construct a model town, with 10 different house models and 7 stores. An excellent companion to Make a Village, below, and Make a Farm, above. Link to instructions on site.

Tip: There's a Make a Town Activity Page on the same site.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

101 Great Gifts from Kids: Fabulous Gifts Every Child Can Make

Projects like a personal mouse pad, mini birdbath, decorative tile, peaceful chimes, family picture puzzles, and stained glass candleholders. Illustrations

Story Time Crafts for Kids: Volume 1

26 projects, each one inspired by a favorite children's book - 220 illustrations, 200 in color

Site: Make a Village

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/village.htm

With the free software on this page, kids can print out the pieces to plan and construct a model village, with 5 house models, a church and an apartment building. An excellent companion to Make a Farm and Make a Town, above. Link to instructions on site.

Tip: There's a Make a Village Activity Page on the same site.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Story Time Crafts for Kids: Volume 2

26 projects, each one inspired by a favorite children's book - 220 illustrations, 200 in color

The Edge on the Sword

Based on a true story, this is a tale of a young noblewoman in England who seized power 1,000 years ago. A medieval story of courage, conviction and honor

Site: Heraldry Game

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/heraldrygame/index.html

A simple, engaging and entertaining ways for anyone of any age to learn the principles of Heraldry. As Robert, Second son of Lord Landly, you must unravel the details of a political plot by remembering the lessons of Roger the Herald. Roger's lessons pop up in a separate window so that you can refer back to them. Designed for middle-grade students, it's the perfect way for anyone of any age to learn the basics of Heraldry. An excellent companion to Shields, Knights, and Heraldry, and Build a Medieval Castle, below.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Castles

Clearly illustrated overview of medieval European (and a few Near Eastern) castles - construction, inhabitants, celebrations, and rituals, as well topics such as sanitation and the kitchen

Knights

Page after page of magnificent illustration and information - everything a young person could want to know about knights

Site: Shields, Knights, and Heraldry

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/heraldry.htm

With the free software on this page, kids can make their own shield with a coat of arms, learn about knights, knighthood, medieval life, chivalry, heraldry and the Middle Ages. An excellent companion to The Heraldry Game, above, and Build a Medieval Castle, below.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

If You Lived in the Days of the Knights

England in the 13th century - magic spells, brave knights, magnificent castles, this book explores the many aspects of the Middle Ages. Full-color illustrations

Amazing Cross-Sections: Castle

See the secret workings of a medieval castle from the inside out with this fascinating book that shows you details you've never seen before

Site: Build a Medieval Castle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/castle.htm

From the page linked above you can download castle pieces to print and cut out, instructions for putting the castle together, and learning activities about the history of castles and the folks who lived in them. An excellent companion to Shields, Knights, and Heraldry and The Heraldry Game, above.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Castle

Everything you ever wanted to know about how castles were planned and built, and who lived in them - illustrated with detailed b&w drawings

Draw Medieval Fantasies

step-by-step instructions for drawing dragons, castles, and other medieval subjects - basic skills and advanced drawing techniques

Site: Create Art

URL: http://www.sanford-artedventures.com/create/create.html

Sanford, the art supplies people, created this site with art lesssons and technique demonstrations in Architecture, Drawing, Color, Perspective, Portrait and Figure Techniques, and more. Terrific content for kids or anyone interested in the basics of art techniques.

This site is a winner of Dr. Brain's Big Brain Award

Cartooning for Kids

There are hours of fun in here - the perfect book for every kid who loves cartoons

How to Draw Animals

More than 1,000 step-by-step illustrations - a detailed guide for everyone who enjoys, or wants to enjoy, drawing animals

Site: ArtEdventures

URL: http://www.sanford-artedventures.com/play/play.html

Sanford, the art supplies folks, present Carmine Chameleon in a series of wonderfullly interactive primary and intermediate grade games to teach children (and former children) about art.

Tip: The games can be downloaded to play at home on either Windows or Macintosh systems.

Drawing: The Materials, Techniques, and Exercises to Teach Yourself to Draw

Introduces basic techniques and principles of drawing, such as proportion, perspective, and shading

Draw 50 Horses

Arabians, Pintos, Morgans and Clydesdales: jumping, bucking, rearing, grazing and kicking - all are in this collection of 50 drawings

Site: Study Art

URL: http://www.sanford-artedventures.com/study/study.html

Sanford, the art supplies people, have put together a mini art education in this extensive interactive art site. Dozens of lessons on Elements, Principles, Concepts, Media, Styles, and Artists.

Tip: Don't overlook the yellow Timeline of Art link on the top half of the page.

Draw Fifty Cars, Trucks and Motorcycles


Draw Fifty Monsters, Creeps, Superheroes, Dragons, Nerds, Dirts, Ghouls, Giants, Vampires...


Draw Fifty Aliens, UFOs, Galaxy Ghouls, Milky Way Marauders, and Other Extraterrestrial Creatures

Online Activities for Kids: Projects for School, Extra Credit, or Just Plain Fun!

build a dinosaur, search for extraterrestrial life, dissect a virtual frog, track a hurricane, explore Mars, experience the life of a Civil War soldier, learn hieroglyphics, and much, much more

Site: Lissa Explains it All

Author: Lissa

URL: http://www.lissaexplains.com/intro.shtml

Wow! This is really, really basic info on creating your own web page, from an explanation of HTML, through HTML tags, Frames, Tables, CSS, JavaScript, and more. Even if you're not a kid, but feel intimidated by most HTML learning sites, you might want to try this one first.

Introduction to Web Site Design

How to put your own site on the World Wide Web

Mark Kistler's Web Wizards: Build Your Own Homepage

An essential reference for schools and homes, building web pages provides kids with a great way to tell the world about their hobbies, clubs, favorite activities, anything at all

Site: Microsoft FrontPage Tutorials

Author: ACT 360 Media and Microsoft Corporation

URL: http://www.actden.com/fp2000/java/index.htm

Step-by-step and easy to understand, because they were written for intermediate school students. This makes them perfect for the beginning learner of any age.

Tip: The link to the next part of the lesson is at the bottom of the video screen. The area at the left of the screen contains links to the lessons, to the right of the screen is commentary, explanation of terms, etc.

Mousetracks: A Kid's Computer Idea Book

More than 70 ways to fill the gap between homework and games: step-by-step activities that work with any graphics and word processing software on any kind of computer

Computers for Beginners

What is virtual reality? What can you do with a CD-ROM? Do you know how to handle your hardware? These questions and many more are answered in this friendly introduction to the world of computers

Site: IE5 in the Classroom

Author: ACT 360 Media and Microsoft Corporation

URL: http://www.actden.com/IE5/index.htm

Written for intermediate-grade kids, so easy for anyone to follow, no matter how little computer experience you may have. Dr. Brain says, "Surf on in, the water's fine."

Tip: Quick explanations are in the screen on the right, links to detailed instructions are at the top.

Home Page: An Introduction to Web Page Design

This kid-oriented title makes HTML -- the language of the World Wide Web -- friendly and covers all the basics of building a home page

World Wide Web for Beginners

Explains how to make the most of the vast variety of information available on the Web, go shopping, make friends, build your own web page

Site: Microsoft Office Tutorials

Author: ACT 360 Media and Microsoft Corporation

URL: http://www.actden.com/o2k/

Join Agent Max Millennium on a humorous adventure to learn why Microsoft Office 2000 is a must-have for all your classroom projects. Expertise in Office 2000 will give you most of what you need to tackle any later versions of the product.

Tip: If you have a 56.6 or better connection, a 3.0 or better browser, and the Flash plug-in, you might want to watch the Flash version. If you don't, an HTML version is available.

Dave's Quick 'n' Easy Web Pages

At 11 years old, the author created a fan Web page for Brian Jacques's "Redwall" series, which soon became the official "Redwall" site. Teenage Dave Lindsay now takes you from basic HTML coding, color, tables, images, animation sound, and more

Computer Fun for Everyone: Great Things to Do and Make with Any Computer

With the amazing activities in this book, you can become a spy, a newspaper reporter, even a comic book illustrator - and you can do it on any computer

Site: Outlook Express in the Classroom

Author: ACT 360 Media and Microsoft Corporation

URL: http://www.actden.com/oe/index.htm

Intergalactic traveler @Tom warps in to teach you everything you need to know about sending and receiving electronic mail with Microsoft Outlook Express. Clear and easy instructions, tips, and interactive quizes to reinforce what you've learned. It's so easy, even an adult can do it.

Tip: Scroll down through the lesson bits to get to the tips, and links to the Quiz-Byte and the next lesson.

Let There Be Life!: Animating with the Computer

Welcome to the astounding world of computer animation!

101 Best Web Sites for Kids

Kids can learn to surf through Web sites with this easy guide - and parents won't have to be concerned about subject matter. Tips, multi-media resources, glossary, homework help

Site: PowerPoint in the Classroom

Author: ACT 360 Media and Microsoft Corporation

URL: http://www.actden.com/pp/

Despite the site's title, this is PowerPoint for just about anyone, anywhere. Designed for intermediate-grade classrooms, it provides just the perfect learning approach for beginners of all ages. "Power Pointers" and quick quizzes augment and reinforce what you learn in the concise and easy step-by-step lessons.

The World Wide Web

explains the history and uses of the World Wide Web and develops skills such as navigating the Web and locating sites of interest using search engines and Web indexes

Bill Nye the Science Guy's Big Blue Ocean

Witty explanations of the natural world, transformed into colorful illustrations and prose in a feature about the inner workings of the ocean

Site: Continents Map Puzzle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/puzzle_com.htm

"Geography is spatial – so why not learn it spatially?" Why not, indeed? There are several ways to play this learning game, based on a blank puzzle of the world's continents. Puzzle pieces representing the continents can be dragged onto their proper places on the map. You can also play with or without a timer. "Better than a wooden map puzzle," claims the site; "With this game you can't lose Antarctica under the couch." Dr. Brain agrees. Designed for kids, but easy enough for adults, too.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

The Best Book of Sharks

Enter the deep, dark world of sharks and examine their characteristics, breeding, life cycles and behavior

Eyewitness: Titanic

Discover the secrets of the luxury liner, life on board and its underwater discovery and exploration

Site: Oceans ALIVE!

Author: The Museum of Science, Boston

URL: http://www.mos.org/oceans/index.html

The oceans are alive! Our planet, mostly covered by water, is filled with movement and life. Learn all about our global seas in Oceans ALIVE! From fascinating facts about ocean environments to how waves are formed and how the moon affects tides; from fish eat fish, to life deep undersea; underwater exploration, remote sensing, and lots more. Resources for students and teachers, activities, and links to even more ocean-related information.

What Makes an Ocean Wave?: Questions and Answers about Oceans and Ocean Life

Questions about the world's oceans and its life forms, such as which ocean is the largest, what causes high tides, and do fish sleep - Color Illustrations

Scholastic Atlas of the World

An up-to-date international reference, filled with informative and comprehensive articles, graphs, charts, and computer-generated maps, and a wealth of supplemental information

Site: World Features Puzzle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/features.htm

"Geography is spatial – so why not learn it spatially?" Why not, indeed? There are several ways to play this learning game, based on a blank puzzle of the world. Puzzle pieces representing geographical features can be dragged onto their proper places on the map. You can play with or without a timer. Designed for kids, but easy enough for adults, too.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

The Kingfisher Atlas of the World

State-of-the-art maps show each country's topography, cities, borders, and other features in detail - incisive text, hundreds of photos and illustrations, and clear fact panels help curious readers understand other cultures

Africa

A brief overview of the geography, wildlife, history, and people of Africa

Site: FamilyGames.com

Author: Nick Sullivan

URL: http://familygames.com/free/agt.html

Nick Sullivan, author of The Seventh Princess, presents the free African Geography Tutor, one of the programs that first inspired Doctor Brain to create the Laboratory. Even if you've always been...ahem..."geographically challenged," this tutorial/game can teach you the name and location of African countries and their capitals in a flash. A map to explore, and two types of quizzes to test your knowledge. Great for adults and kids, too.

A is for Africa

Stunning color photographs depict everyday life in Nigeria in this unusual ABC book by a talented African photographer

The Cinnamon Tree: A Novel Set in Africa

When a landmine explodes beneath her, Yola Abonda is thrown violently into a new life

Site: Africa Map Puzzle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/puzzle_afr.htm

"Geography is spatial – so why not learn it spatially?" Why not, indeed? There are several ways to play this learning game, based on a blank puzzle of the African continent. Puzzle pieces representing South African countries can be dragged onto their proper places on the map, with or without country outlines as hints, and the capitals can be placed into their countries' borders, with or without map hints. You can also play with or without a timer. "Better than a wooden map puzzle," claims the site; "With this game you can't lose Madagascar under the couch." Dr. Brain agrees. Designed for kids, but easy enough for adults, too.

Tip: Go to this page and scroll down to find a link to an interactive map of Africa.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Tales from Africa

Stories and folk tales from contemporary African writers capture the rich storytelling tradition of the continent - vivid, full-color illustrations by a Nigerian artist

Royal Kingdoms of Ghana, Mali, and Songbay: Life in Medieval Africa

Three African kingdoms that flourished between 500 and 1700 A.D. - illustrated with photographs and maps

Site: Africa: One Continent, Many Worlds

Author: Field Museum of Natural History, et al

URL: http://www.nhm.org/africa/

A guided virtual tour of the continent of Africa, presented through the cooperation of several Los Angeles museums, this site shows Africa and its people from both historical and contemporary perspectives through hands-on activities, multimedia presentations and of African artifacts. Features units on African American community and culture, and lots of classroom activities.

Tip: Frames-only site

Hands-On Africa: Art Activities for All Ages

Kings and Queens of West Africa

Myths of West Africa

Uncommon Traveler: Mary Kingsley in Africa

Zomo the Rabbit: A Trickster Tale from West Africa

South Africa the People

Ancient Africa Coloring Book

Journey Into Africa: A Nature Discovery Trip

The Endurance: Shackleton's Perilous Expedition in Antarctica

Four to the Pole!: The American Women's Expedition to Antarctica, 1992-93

Ice Continent: A Story of Antarctica

Seven Weeks on an Iceberg: A Journey to the Coldest Place on the Planet, Antarctica

The Cruelest Place on Earth: Stories from Antarctica

Playing with Penguins and Other Adventures in Antarctica

Site: Secrets of the Ice

Author: The Museum of Science, Boston

URL: http://www.secretsoftheice.org/explore/index.html

Explore Antarctica from 200 million years ago to the present. Learn about current scientific research, and follow a team of scientists, engineers, technicians, and students of The International Trans-Antarctic Scientific Expedition (ITASE) as they undertake a four-year project of study and exploration. Tons of information, and a special Learning Resources section for students and teachers.

Antarctica

A brief overview of the geography, wildlife, history, and exploration of Antarctica

Mystery on Everest: Photobiography of George Mallory

George Mallory may have been the first person to set foot on the summit of Mt. Everest, but it's a mystery that may never be solved. Read about the ill-fated 1924 expedition where Mallory and Andrew Irvine disappeared.

Site: Everest: Roof of the World

Author: The Museum of Science, Boston

URL: http://www.mos.org/Everest/home.htm

A stunning and unforgettable journey to the summit of Mt. Everest. Photos, text, animations, and lots of interactivity as you follow a team from base camp to summit and share their adventures, sorrows, and eventual triumph.

Tip: Click the link "Interactive Tour" in the top center area of the page linked above to begin the tour.

Tip: There's more than meets the eye on most pages, so watch for the "More ->" arrow to get the most out of this amazing tour.

Triumph on Everest: A Photobiography of Sir Edmund Hillary

On May 29, 1953, Edmund Hillary of New Zealand and Tenzing Norgay of Nepal became the first human beings to conquer Mount Everest - Chomolungma, to its people - at 29,028 ft. the highest place on earth

China

Inviting and interactive - color photographs, facts about China, vocabulary building, Internet resources, and much more

Site: Asia Map Puzzle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/puzzle_asia.htm

"Geography is spatial – so why not learn it spatially?" Why not, indeed? There are several ways to play this learning game, based on a blank puzzle of the Asian continent. Puzzle pieces representing South Asian countries can be dragged onto their proper places on the map, with or without country outlines as hints, and the capitals can be placed into their countries' borders, with or without map hints. You can also play with or without a timer. "Better than a wooden map puzzle," claims the site; "With this game you can't lose Mongolia under the couch." Dr. Brain agrees. Designed for kids, but easy enough for adults, too.

Tip: Go to this page and scroll down to find a link to an interactive map of Asia.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Japan

Inviting and interactive - color photographs, facts about Japan, vocabulary building, Internet resources, and much more

Destination Australia

A journey around the island continent of Australia - 43 vibrant color photographs make the Great Barrier Reef and the groves of eucalyptus seem close enough to touch

Site: Australia and Southeast Asia Map Puzzle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/puzzle_aus.htm

"Geography is spatial – so why not learn it spatially?" Why not, indeed? There are several ways to play this learning game, based on a blank puzzle of Australasia. Puzzle pieces representing Australia and southeast Asian countries can be dragged onto their proper places on the map, with or without state and country outlines as hints, and the capitals can be placed into their states' and countries' borders, with or without map hints. You can also play with or without a timer. "Better than a wooden map puzzle," claims the site; "With this game you can't lose New Zealand under the couch." Dr. Brain agrees. Designed for kids, but easy enough for adults, too.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Australia

Inviting and interactive - color photographs, facts about Australia, vocabulary building, Internet resources, and much more

Wow, Canada!: Exploring the Land from Coast to Coast to Coast

Canada (True Books Series)

Canada (4-8)

Canada from A to Z

Brain Quest Canada

Site: Canada Map Puzzle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/puzzle_canada.htm

"Geography is spatial – so why not learn it spatially?" Why not, indeed? There are several ways to play this learning game, based on a blank puzzle of Canada. Puzzle pieces representing Canadian provinces can be dragged onto their proper places on the map, with or without provincial outlines as hints, and the capitals can be placed into their provinces' borders, with or without map hints. You can also play with or without a timer. "Better than a wooden map puzzle," claims the site; "With this game you can't lose Prince Edward Island under the couch." Dr. Brain agrees. Designed for kids, but easy enough for adults, too.

Tip: Go to this page and scroll down to find a link to an interactive map of Canada.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Canada: The People

France

A simple pictorial introduction to the people, landscapes, cities, festivals, industries, etc. of France

Site: FamilyGames.com

Author: Nick Sullivan

URL: http://familygames.com/free/egt.html

Nick Sullivan, author of The Seventh Princess, presents the free European Geography Tutor, one of the programs that first inspired Doctor Brain to create the Laboratory. Even if you've always been...ahem..."geographically challenged," this tutorial/game can teach you the name and location of 39 European countries in as little as 30 minutes. A map to explore, and two types of quizzes to test your knowledge. Great for adults and kids, too.

This site is a winner of Dr. Brain's Big Brain Award

Dublin

Dublin is the crossroads of Ireland's politics, culture, and social community. Learn more about this vital and beautiful city, the people, and how they live - Maps, illustrations

Spain

A simple pictorial introduction to the people, landscapes, cities, festivals, industries, etc. of Spain

Site: Europe Map Puzzle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/puzzle_eur.htm

"Geography is spatial – so why not learn it spatially?" Why not, indeed? There are several ways to play this learning game, based on a blank puzzle of Europe. Puzzle pieces representing European countries can be dragged onto their proper places on the map, with or without country outlines as hints, and the capitals can be placed into their countries' borders, with or without map hints. You can also play with or without a timer. "Better than a wooden map puzzle," claims the site; "With this game you can't lose the Ukraine under the couch." Dr. Brain agrees. Designed for kids, but easy enough for adults, too.

Tip: Go to this page and scroll down to find a link to an interactive map of Europe.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Germany

A simple pictorial introduction to the people, landscapes, cities, festivals, industries, etc. of Germany

The Nile River

An introduction to the Nile River, its valley, and the people who live there

Site: Middle East Map Puzzle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/puzzle_mea.htm

"Geography is spatial – so why not learn it spatially?" Why not, indeed? There are several ways to play this learning game, based on a blank puzzle of the Middle East. Puzzle pieces representing Middle Eastern countries can be dragged onto their proper places on the map, with or without country outlines as hints, and the capitals can be placed into their countries' borders, with or without map hints. You can also play with or without a timer. "Better than a wooden map puzzle," claims the site; "With this game you can't lose Qatar under the couch." Dr. Brain agrees. Designed for kids, but easy enough for adults, too.

Tip: Go to this page and scroll down to find a link to an interactive map of the Middle East.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Children's Encyclopedia of Arabia

Egypt (True Books Series)

Israel (True Books Series)

Jerusalem

Brazil

A simple pictorial introduction to the people, landscapes, cities, festivals, industries, etc. of Brazil

Site: South America Map Puzzle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/puzzle_sam.htm

"Geography is spatial – so why not learn it spatially?" Why not, indeed? There are several ways to play this learning game, based on a blank puzzle of the South American continent. Puzzle pieces representing South American countries can be dragged onto their proper places on the map, with or without country outlines as hints, and the capitals can be placed into their countries' borders, with or without map hints. You can also play with or without a timer. "Better than a wooden map puzzle," claims the site; "With this game you can't lose Parguay under the couch." Dr. Brain agrees. Designed for kids, but easy enough for adults, too.

Tip: Go to this page and scroll down to find a link to an interactive map of South America.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

South America

A brief overview of the geography, wildlife, history, and people of South America

Golden Tales: Myths, Legends, and Folktales from Latin America

12 traditional Latin American tales bring the history and culture of 13 countries to a vivid new perspective

Site: Central America Map Puzzle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/puzzle_cam.htm

"Geography is spatial – so why not learn it spatially?" Why not, indeed? There are several ways to play this learning game, based on a blank puzzle of Central America. Puzzle pieces representing Central American countries can be dragged onto their proper places on the map, with or without country outlines as hints, and the capitals can be placed into their countries' borders, with or without map hints. You can also play with or without a timer. "Better than a wooden map puzzle," claims the site; "With this game you can't lose Costa Rica under the couch." Dr. Brain agrees. Designed for kids, but easy enough for adults, too.

Tip: Go to this page and scroll down to find a link to an interactive map of Central America.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Senor Cat's Romance: And Other Favorite Stories from Latin America

Six endearing and humorous Latin American tales - includes glossary of Spanish words

Don't Know Much about the 50 States

Learn lots of surprising facts about your home state and others. Guaranteed to impress parents, shock friends, and stump teachers

Site: Family Games: U.S. Geography Tutor

Author: Nick Sullivan

URL: http://familygames.com/free/ugt.html

Nick Sullivan, author of The Seventh Princess, presents the free U.S. Geography Tutor, one of the programs that first inspired Doctor Brain to create the Laboratory. Even if you've always been...ahem..."geographically challenged," this tutorial/game can teach you the name and location of all 50 states in a flash. A map to explore, and two types of quizzes to test your knowledge. Great for adults and kids, too.

California

A history, a timeline, an almanac, and lots more information about California

The United States of America: A State-By-State Guide

Site: United States Map Puzzle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/puzzle_us.htm

"Geography is spatial – so why not learn it spatially?" Why not, indeed? There are several ways to play this learning game, based on a blank puzzle of The United States. Puzzle pieces representing states can be dragged onto their proper places on the map, with or without state outlines as hints, and the capitals can be placed into their states' borders, with or without map hints. You can also play with or without a timer. "Better than a wooden map puzzle," claims the site; "With this game you can't lose Massachusetts under the couch." Dr. Brain agrees. Designed for kids, but easy enough for adults, too.

Tip: Go to this page and scroll down to find a link to an interactive map of The U.S.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

New York City

Explore New York City without ever leaving home

Rio Grande: From the Rocky Mountains to the Gulf of Mexico

The history, geography, archaeology, and ecology of the Rio Grande and its valley

Site: GeoNet

Author: Houghton Mifflin Company

URL: http://www.eduplace.com/geonet/

Don't let the cartoony look of this site fool you, the GeoNet quizzes at the "Hard" level will challenge most adults' geographical knowledge. All quizzes are on the U.S., with four regions and six categories to a region. Can you beat Dr. Brain's score of 4175 in the West?

Tip: At the top right of the window is a link to useful reference maps of the U.S.

This site is a winner of Dr. Brain's Big Brain Award

The Inside-Outside Book of Washington, D.C.

An extraordinary full-color look at our nation's capital and its fascinating sights

Illinois

The history, geography, ecology, people, economy, cities, and sights of Illinois

Site: U.S. Features Puzzle

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/us_features.htm

"Geography is spatial – so why not learn it spatially?" Why not, indeed? There are several ways to play this learning game, based on a blank puzzle of the United States. Puzzle pieces representing geographical features can be dragged onto their proper places on the map. You can play with or without a timer. Designed for kids, but easy enough for adults, too.

Tip: Go to this page and scroll down to find a link to an interactive map of the U.S.

Tip: Requires a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Chicago

A broad but detailed picture of Chicago - maps, a list of famous landmarks, and a "Fast Facts" section

Pyramids!: 50 Hands-On Activities to Experience Ancient Egypt

Experience the wonders of ancient Egypt with games, food, clothing and creative ways to explore life in a ancient society

Site: Ancient Egypt Discovery Case

Author: Royal Ontario Museum

URL: http://www.rom.on.ca/egypt/case/

The "Discovery Case" of this site's title is an interactive treasure chest loaded with beautifully-presented information on dozens of subjects relating to Ancient Egypt. Aimed at older students and adults, with a teacher's area and links to resources. Dr. Brains says, "This one's a keeper!"

Tip: During the school year, you can click the question mark icon at the bottom of the menu to "Ask an Egyptologist."

The World of the Pharaoh

Religion, agriculture, the arts, mummification, the pyramids, temple ceremonies, magic, medicine - all aspects of life in ancient Egypt

Ancient Rome

Explore the customs and daily life of the Romans - layered transparendcies reveal the outside and inside of a Roman town house, a theater, an army fort, and the Roman baths - full-color photos

Site: The Romans

Author: BBC

URL: http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/romans/

This is the place to learn about Rome, whether you're a middle-grade student or an adult with an active sense of adventure. Lots and lots of content everywhere, with a timeline, fun facts, pop-up glossary definitions, printable activities galore, and a teachers and parents' area. Dr. Brain is impressed.

Tip: At the bottom of each subject page are links to "More to Explore," with even more interesting stuff, and a quiz about the page's contents.

The Romans

Examines the everyday lives of ancient Romans -- filled with colorful pictures, maps and diagrams

Tutankhamen's Gift

The story of the Egyptian boy who became king when he was only ten years old

Site: Ancient Egypt

Author: The British Museum

URL: http://www.ancientegypt.co.uk/

A lovely introduction to Ancient Egypt for children or curious adults, with lots of illustration and pop-up definitions. Subject areas: Egyptian Life, Geography, Gods & Goddesses, Mummification, Pharaoh, Pyramids, Temples, Time, Trades, and Writing.

Tip: "Staff Room" link at bottom of main page menu leads to a page for teachers and group leaders.

Sightseers: Ancient Egypt

Take a boat trip down the crocodile-infested Nile, travel by donkey to the pyramids at Giza, and hire a palanquin to complete the tour in style - this book makes you a sightseer in ancient Egypt

The Usborne History of the Ancient World

Densely packed with colorful pictures, maps and diagrams, and includes summaries of dates for quick and easy reference

Site: Collapse: Why do Civilizations Fall?

Author: Annenberg/CPB

URL: http://www.learner.org/exhibits/collapse/mayans.html

This great site discusses the fall of four once-great civilizations now known to us only through ruins: the Maya, Mesopotamia, Chaco Canyon, and Mali & Songhai. Interactive hands-on explorations in two of the units, and lots of archaeological web resources for further study.

Spend the Day in Ancient Greece: Projects and Activities That Bring the Past to Life

Write a letter using the Greek alphabet, make a snake bracelet, create masks to wear in your own play, build a chariot you can race

A Medieval Feast

Describes the preparation and celebration of a medieval feast held at an English manor house entertaining royal guests

Site: Middle Ages

Author: Annenberg/CPB/Learner.org

URL: http://www.learner.org/exhibits/middleages/

7 beautifully-illustrated learning areas. Each page gives a brief overview, then offers a more detailed article from a link at the bottom. Here and there are mini-pictures leading to even more details. Medieval life at home, in towns, in the church, and much more.

Tip: Don't ignore the link at bottom if you want more details than are offered on the first page of each learning area.

Medieval Life

The story of life in the Middle Ages, beautifully illustrated throughout

A Medieval Castle

What was life like inside a medieval castle? How were they built, and who lived in them? Color illustrations throughout.

Site: The Middle Ages

Author: Scott Rees

URL: http://radiantworks.com/middleages/

This is a very brief overview of the Medieval period, its social and political systems, and everyday life. It's a good place to start if you're curious, and very well designed and illustrated with photographs and paintings. If it presented more material it would quickly earn a fourth brain in our ratings.

Tip: The author is updating the site, so bookmark and come back from time to time.

Medieval Britain

Britain during the Middle Ages: the Magna Carta, the beginning of Parliament, peasant revolts, wars, work, everyday life, ideas and beliefs, law, medicine, castles and cathedrals, the Black Death

Black Stars in Orbit: NASA's African-American Astronauts

The inspiring story of the first African Americans to journey into space and black scientists who have been working at NASA since the 1950s

Shipwreck at the Bottom of the World

The incredible story of the ill-fated Antarctic expedition of Ernest Shackleton and the "Endurance" - an enthralling adventure

Site: Modern World History

Author: BBC

URL: http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/modern/

An interactive overview of the years between World Wars I and II, and how historical and cultural events of those years helped shape the world we live in today. This site was designed for British secondary school students, but learners of any age from any country will find it a wonderful way to familiarize themselves with the period, the personalities, and the history-making events. Viewing the site at its best requires the Macromedia Shockwave Plug-in, which is free. There's also a non-Shockwave version, if you really insist, but do yourself a favor and view this site as it was meant to be seen if at all possible.

On Board the Titanic: What It Was Like When the Great Liner Sank

The 1912 sinking of the Titanic, told from the viewpoints of two young people on board

African American Women Scientists and Inventors

30 lively profiles of unsung and legendary heroines spanning three centuries of American history

The Renaissance

Discover the Renaissance - peel back see-through pages to look inside a Florentine town house, Columbus's ship (the Santa Maria), St. Peter's in Rome and a printer's workshop

Site: Renaissance

Author: Annenberg/CPB/Learner.org

URL: http://www.learner.org/exhibits/renaissance/

5 beautifully-illustrated learning areas. Each page gives a brief overview, then offers a more detailed article from a link at the bottom. Here and there are mini-pictures leading to even more details. How the Renaissance affected exploration, trade, the arts, and much more.

Tip: Don't ignore the link at bottom if you want more details than are offered on the first page of each learning area.

Outrageous Women of the Renaissance

They were the exciting, inspiring, and totally Outrageous Women of the Renaissance - these remarkable women forged their own paths, made their own rules—and rocked the world!

Behind the Blue and the Gray: The Solider's Life in the Civil War

Black Stars of Civil War Times

Site: America's Civil War: Teaching the Civil War

URL: http://www.fredericksburg.com/CivilWar/Teaching/index_html

This site for teaching the U.S. Civil War to 4th and 5th graders features a teacher's guide and glossary, as well as 5 learning units with numerous sub-units, and 7 interactive learning activities.

A Separate Battle: Women and the Civil War

Women who had roles to play in the Civil War, and how they affected U.S. History

The Amazing Life of Benjamin Franklin

Read about one of the most brilliant and important men in American history

Benjamin Franklin

What was Benjamin Franklin really like? Find out in this biography for young students

Site: The Electric Franklin

Author: Independence Hall Association

URL: http://www.ushistory.org/franklin/index.htm

A little bit of everything about Benjamin Franklin, from a full text of his autobiography (and a shorter, 'good parts' version to mine for student reports) and indexed Franklin quotes, through a reprint of the first issue of the New-England Courant, the first newspaper Franklin worked on, through games and activities for students, two 360-degree VR presentations, and a streaming media video about the Electric Franklin project. A great site for learning about early American history

Tip: Click everywhere; lots of info to be had here.

Black Stars of Colonial Times

Inspiring biographical profiles that bring notable African Americans of colonial times to life

Black Frontiers

A History of African American Heroes in the Old West

20th Century America

Biographies of 100 people who influenced life in 20th century America

Author: Peggy Whitley, et al

URL: http://www.nhmccd.edu/contracts/lrc/kc/decades.html

Each decade of the 20th century is deeply explored in learning areas covering arts, technology, personalities and much more. Each area has many links to related information and related websites, and is illustrated with lots of period photographs.

Tip: The links do not open into a new page, so be careful of getting away from the site.

Children's History of the 20th Century

An unparalleled overview of the 20th century from flappers to funk, sports to space exploration

The Vicious Vikings

The author of The Measly Middle Ages gives you the hilarious but true lowdown on the Vikings

Site: The Vikings

Author: BBC

URL: http://www.bbc.co.uk/education/vikings/navas/vactivities.shtml

A great introduction to Viking life and culture for 2nd-4th-graders, aimed at British students, but great for anyone. Four printable activities and one interactive game. Timeline, pop-up glossary and a teachers/parents area.

Tip: At the bottom of the last page of each unit is a link to a quiz. Missing mouseovers from some subject areas.

The Vikings: With Treasure Chest

Step back in time to learn about Viking life and lore - the rulers and government, religious beliefs, how communities worked, crafts and trades, plus wars and territorial expansion

The Book of Pirates

Long John Silver, Captain Hook - even Captain Kidd himself - in tales from the time when pirates ruled the seas. Illustrated by Michael Hague

Site: Pirates

Author: NationalGeographic.com

URL: http://www.nationalgeographic.com/features/97/pirates/maina.html

Kids begin this learning game by choosing their own pirate name and naming their pirate ship. From there, they click on an old document, and begin an adventure, attempting to discover the identity of the pirate in the story. Three adventures in all, with great Don Maitz illustrations.

Tip: Kids may find the navigation just a bit confusing on this one, but if they're interested in pirates, they'll love it anyway.

Pirates

Who they were, how they lived, what they did

Basic English Dictionary: For Elementary and Pre-Intermediate Students

Over 5,000 terms - each entry features a pronunciation guide, a simple definition, and an example sentence that shows how the word is used

Site: Wacky Web Tales

Author: Houghton Mifflin Company

URL: http://www.eduplace.com/tales/index.html

Kids in grades 3 and up fill in blanks with particular types of words to create these funny stories, sorta like MadLibs. Choose from 10 different stories and learn about parts of speech at the same time.

Tip: "Parts of Speech Help" button at the bottom of every story creation page.

Arabic-English Bilingual Visual Dictionary

Chinese-English Bilingual Visual Dictionary

Vietnamese-English Bilingual Visual Dictionary

Sign-Me-Fine: Experiencing American Sign Language

Disscovering Sign Language

English/ESL: A Musical Journey Through the Day - Tape with Book

English/ESL: A Musical Journey Through the Year - Tape with Book

First Thousand Words in French

A wealth of vocabulary-building opportunities for young learners of French, or anyone who likes to learn with pictures

Site: Learn.co.uk - French - Key Stage 3 - year 7

Author: Learn.co.uk

URL: http://www.Learn.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=Topic&WCU=8684

This delightful beginning French tutorial in 30 lessons was designed for elementary school children, but it's easy enough for adults, too. Lesson Objectives, Vocabulary, Listening practgive (every phrase has an audio component to practice proper pronunciation), speaking exercises have answers in pop-up windows. Writing exercises can be printed out. Tests gauge your progress. Doctor Brain loves this one!

Tip: Click the audio button beside each speech balloon to hear the conversation in the listening exercises ("Ecoutez").

Tip: Learn.co.uk tutorials were designed to prepare students for the U.K.'s National Curriculum tests, but are super learning tools for anyone, anywhere.

Baby's First Steps in French: CD with Book and Worksheet

Emphasizes the sounds and rhythms that babies are most sensitive to at a particular stage of language development: newborn to 6 months, 6 to 12 months, 12 to 18 months, and 18 to 24 months

Everyday Words in French

Hours of fun-filled practice for beginning readers, spotting and naming each familiar object - a useful vocabulary builder and spelling guide that includes over 500 words

Site: Learn.co.uk - French - Key Stage 3 - year 8

Author: Learn.co.uk

URL: http://www.Learn.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=Topic&WCU=8685

24 lessons to add to what you learned in Key Stage 3 - year 7, above. Easy, fun, and you can listen to each phrase being spoken.

Tip: Learn.co.uk tutorials were designed to prepare students for the U.K.'s National Curriculum tests, but are super learning tools for anyone, anywhere.

Bonsoir Lune (Goodnight Moon)

The children's classic, in French

Action French! Tapes and Book

Aventures d'Alice Au Pays Des Merveilles (Alice in Wonderland)

Babar En Amérique (Babar in America)

Charlie Et La Grand Ascenseur (Charlie and the Great Glass Elevator

Baiser Pour Petit Ours (A Kiss for Little Bear)

Baiser Pour Petit Ours (A Kiss for Little Bear)

Site: Learn.co.uk - French - Key Stage 3 - year 9

Author: Learn.co.uk

URL: http://www.Learn.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=Topic&WCU=7037

31 lessons building on the French you learned in Key Stage 3 Year 8, above. A delightful way to learn a new language.

Tip: Learn.co.uk tutorials were designed to prepare students for the U.K.'s National Curriculum tests, but are super learning tools for anyone, anywhere.

Essential French

the ideal phrasebook for anyone wanting to survive and socialize in France - packed with real, everyday French to help you cope with every situation, asking for the local campsite, discussing green politics, or getting your bike fixed

First French

Follow the exploits of the quirky Noisette family as you learn vocabulary, puzzles, games, jokes and songs in French

First French on Holiday

First French at Home

First French at School

Site: Learn.co.uk - French - Key Stage 4

Author: Learn.co.uk

URL: http://www.Learn.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=Topic&WCU=3960

62 lessons to add to Key Stages 2 and 3, above, for a genuine proficiency in conversational French. Doctor Brain thinks these tutorials are some of the best interactive learning around.

Tip: Following the 56 main lessons are grammar lessons on Verb, Articles, Nouns, Adjectives, and Pronouns, and a Useful Expressions list.

Tip: Learn.co.uk tutorials were designed to prepare students for the U.K.'s National Curriculum tests, but are super learning tools for anyone, anywhere.

Way Cool French Phrase Book: The French That Kids Really Speak

Useful expressions loaded with street-cred - young students or travelers will enjoy learning how to gossip, order their favorite junk food, or compliment a friend on her choice of shoes

Fabulous Fractions

Don’t Just Learn Fractions ...Master Them!

Site: CoolMath: Fractions

URL: http://www.coolmath.com/lessons/index.html

17 colorful and easy-to-understand lessons covering every aspect of fractions. These people believe math should be fun, and they've created a great site to prove it.

Tip: In the left-hand frame of each lesson are two important links: "Lesson" and "Try It." After reading the lesson, click the "Try It" link to try an interactive demonstration of that lesson's principles. Click "Lesson" to return to the lesson.

Math Magic: The Human Calculator Shows How to Master Everyday Math Problems in Seconds

There are no "mathematical illiterates," just people who have not learned how to make math work for them - now you can put math-o-phobia to rest forever

Math Trek 2: A Mathematical Space Odyssey

Explore the fourth dimension! Play baseball on an asteroid! Ride an alien bike with square wheels! Let Math Trek 2 take you on an intergalactic excursion as you master dizzying mathematical concepts on your home planet of Earth!

Site: CoolMath4Kids

URL: http://www.coolmath4kids.com/

There are so many wonderful math learning games and activities on this site, there's no way for Dr. Brain to do them justice. Just go to the site and start clicking. These people believe math should be fun, and they've created a great site to prove it.

Pigs on the Ball: Fun with Math and Sports

Pigs and golf add up to hilarious fun in this math-concept picture book exploring simple geometry

Pigs in the Pantry: Fun with Math and Cooking

Pigs on a Blanket: Fun with Math and Time

Pigs in the Corner: Fun with Math and Dance

Amanda Bean's Amazing Dream: A Mathematical Story

Amanda loves to count everything, but remains unconvinced about the advantages of multiplication - until she has an amazing dream

Site: Learn.co.uk: Maths - Key Stage 2

Author: The Manchester Guardian

URL: http://www.Learn.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=Topic&WCU=6966

34 easy, interactive lessons take you through the basics of mathematics from numbers, through shapes and measurements, to probability. So easy, even adults can get it.

Tip: Learn.co.uk tutorials were designed to prepare students for the U.K.'s National Curriculum tests, but are super learning tools for anyone, anywhere.

Every Buddy Counts: Level 1: Counting

A Fair Bear Share: Level 2: Regrouping

Give Me Half!: Level 2: Understanding Halves

The M&M's Brand Chocolate Candies Counting Book

More M&M's Brand Chocolate Candies Math

Seaweed Soup: Matching Sets

Math Power: How to Help Your Child Love Math, Even If You Don't

Help your child develop math ability by understanding and teaching math concepts, explaining what math is and how it works

Site: Learn.co.uk: Maths - Key Stage 3

Author: Learn.co.uk

URL: http://www.Learn.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=Topic&WCU=3961

37 interactive lessons, slightly more advanced than Key Stage 2, above. Goes over Fractions and Decimals, introduces Algebra and Geometry. Lots of interactive tests let you see how you're doing.

Tip: Learn.co.uk tutorials were designed to prepare students for the U.K.'s National Curriculum tests, but are super learning tools for anyone, anywhere.

Painless Fractions

A light-hearted approach to teaching fractions, defining all the terms, then demonstrating the correct ways to add, subtract, multiply, and divide them, plus conversion to decimals

How to Calculate Quickly

Addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, checks, etc. More than 8000 problems, solutions

Site: Learn.co.uk: Maths - Key Stage 4 (Foundation)

Author: Learn.co.uk

URL: http://www.learn.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=Topic&WCU=23389

30 Interactive lessons and tests to put basic maths knowledge gained in the tutorials above to practical use. Areas include Number and algebra, Shape, space and measurement, and Handling Data.

Tip: Learn.co.uk tutorials were designed to prepare students for the U.K.'s National Curriculum tests, but are super learning tools for anyone, anywhere.

More Rapid Math Tricks and Tips: 30 Days to Number Mastery

Math skills you can count on - master difficult problems in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division quickly, easily, and without a calculator, and have fun doing it!

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"The Internet Search Engine Just for Kids", with listings for Arts, Computers, Entertainment, Games, Sports & Hobbies, and more.

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Music Reading for Guitar

Like a complete two-year guitar course in book form - includes over 450 songs and examples

Classical & Fingerstyle Guitar Techniques with CD (Audio)

Site: FamilyGames.com

Author: Nick Sullivan

URL: http://familygames.com/

Nick Sullivan, author of The Seventh Princess, presents the free NoteCard music reading tutorial. 12 levels of difficulty progressing until the entire musical staff has been mastered. Other great tutors and games available as well.

How to Play Popular Guitar in 10 Easy Lessons

A beginner-friendly introduction to guitar

The Guitar Handbook

Instant Piano Fun Book One

Abracadabra Piano Book 2: Graded Pieces for the Young Pianist

First Book of the Piano

Piano Course: Book One

Piano Course: Book Two

Site: The Piano Education Page: Just for Kids

Author: John M. Zeigler

URL: http://www.piano.avijon.com/pnokids.html

A great page of musical education, fun, activities and tips for kids learning piano. "Meet the Composer" takes kids back in time in a noisy TARDIS to read 'interviews' with such lights of classical music as C.P.E. Bach, Mozart, Schubert, and many others.

Tip: Turn your sound up to hear the piano selection of the day on the site, and another in each composer's area.

Tip: Listen to hundreds of famous piano compositions, skillfully MIDI-sequenced, on this page: http://www.piano.avijon.com/pnomusic.html

Learn to Play Easy Piano Classics

More Easy Piano Tunes

Piano Pieces for Children

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Site: SFSKids Fun With Music - Instruments of the Orchestra

Author: SFSKids.org

URL: http://www.sfskids.org/templates/instorchframe.asp?pageid=3

Musical instruments and how they are played. Photos of each instrument with closeups, click a button to hear the instrument play, and a text window gives lots of interesting facts.

Tip: Be sure to use the up and down arrows to the right of the text to see more about each instrument, and click the Sound On button if you want to hear the instrument play.

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Site: SFSKids Fun With Music - The Music Lab

Author: SFSKids.org

URL: http://www.sfskids.org/templates/musiclab.asp?pageid=4

A great place to learn or review the basics of music. Covers staff, signatures, notes, tempo, pitch, rhythm, harmony, symbols, and instrumentation. Try the Performalator and the Composerizer for extra fun.

Tip: Don't overlook the Radio link at the top of the page. Six channels of SFSKids Radio offer even more musical learning and fun. More selections become available as you listen to each channel. While it's loading, watch the animation that illustrates the duration of each type of musical note.

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Little Bear

Little Bear's Friend

Father Bear Comes Home

A Kiss for Little Bear

Little Bear's Visit

Site: Learn Letters

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/learnletters.htm

"Fun, educational hands-on learning," say the site's authors, and Dr. Brain agrees. This interactive learning game teaches young children the basics of letter shapes and letter recognition.

Tip: Requires a Sound Card, and a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Frog and Toad Together

Frog and Toad are Friends

Days with Frog and Toad

Frog and Toad All Year

Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me

Monica's father will do anything to keep her happy. Will he be able to get the moon? Color illustrations - pages unfold and extend upwards

Site: Letter Sounds

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/lettersounds.htm

"Fun, educational hands-on learning," say the site's authors, and Dr. Brain agrees. This interactive learning game helps young children associate each letter with the sounds it represent, and reinforce the connection between the word and the first sound in the word.

Tip: Requires a Sound Card, and a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

The Runaway Bunny

No matter where a baby bunny thinks of hiding from his mother, she will always come and find him. Why? Because she loves him.

The Adventures of Captain Underpants

Principal Kruppis now crime-fighting, wedgie-dodging superhero Captain Underpants. New illustration technique allows the reader to animate the action

Captain Underpants and the Wrath of the Wicked Wedgie Woman

Captain Underpants and the Attack of the Talking Toilets

Captain Underpants and Invasion of the Incredibly Naughty Cafeteria Ladies from Outer Space

Captain Underpants and the Perilous Plot of Professor Poopypants

Site: Letter Sounds 2: Blends

Author: Owl & Mouse Educational Software

URL: http://www.yourchildlearns.com/blends.htm

"Fun, educational hands-on learning," say the site's authors, and Dr. Brain agrees. This interactive learning game helps young children learn the sounds made by two-letter blends, and associate the sounds with the letters.

Tip: Requires a Sound Card and a PC running Windows. If you're running Windows XP, program must be ended via Windows Task Manager.

Junie B. Jones Smells Something Fishy

It's Pet Day at school, but the rule is No Dogs! The world's funniest kindergartner finds a way to cope.

Junie B. Jones is a Party Animal

Junie B. Jones and the Stupid Smelly Bus

Junie B. Jones and the Yucky Blucky Fruitcake

Junie B. Jones and that Meanie Jim's Birthday

Junie B. Jones and a Little Monkey Business

Junie B. Jones and her Big Fat Mouth

Time and Space

From flat Earth to black holes, novas to dark stars, Astronomer Gribbin brings young readers into the fascinating twilight zone of timeand space. Full-color illustrations

Site: SciSquad

Author: Discovery.com

URL: http://kids.discovery.com/KIDS/scisquad/

Science learning activities for middle graders were never so much fun. Kids become SciSquad agents, and advance in rank by solving scientific mysteries. A companion activity to the Discovery Channel series. Be sure to sign up to get the full benefits of the site, including seeing your current SciSquad ranking appear at the top of the page whenever you log on. Click the link at the bottom of the page linked above, and off you go.

The Way Science Works: Discover the Secrets of Science

The perfect introduction to how science explains the world around us! Eye-opening experiments and exceptional photography bring science to life

Brain

Your grey matter from the inside out. Factual, fascinating, and beautifully illustrated

Site: Science Monster

Author: Karen and Dave the Mad Scientest

URL: http://www.sciencemonster.com/

7 terrific science lessons and learning games for kids. Dr. Brain particularly liked Virtual Mars, but the Gravity and Inertia game (anyone else old enough to remember Lunar Lander?) was cool, too.

What If: Mind-Boggling Science Questions for Kids

Bizarre brainteasers and ingenious inquiries set the stage for a fantastic foray into the wacky world of real science

The Big Bang: The Birth of Our Universe

The history of scientific discovery about the birth of the universe - companion volume to the BBC TV series

Site: Amazing Space

Author: The Space Telescope Science Institute

URL: http://amazing-space.stsci.edu/

Lots and lots of space science activities for middle-graders on the Amazing Space site, "...a set of web-based activities primarily designed for classroom use, but made available for all to enjoy. 10 terrific interactive learning activities as of this review, and you can join First Contact to be notified of future additions.

Tip: Requires Macromedia Shockwave plug-in. The site will automatically scan for this, and connect you to the free download if yo need it.

Moon Landing

From our first observations and attempts to the first landing and later expeditions, this illustrated account of humanity's exploration of the moon is a gripping account of this epoch-making journey

The World of the Microscope

Activities, experiments and projects - introductions to current scientific issues - instructions help put theories into practice

Site: The Scanning Electron Microscope

Author: The Museum of Science, Boston

URL: http://www.mos.org/sln/SEM/

An interactive site about how the scanning electron microscope works, how specimens are prepared and scanned. An image gallery of great SEM pictures (you get to guess what they are), and a special Resources section for teachers.

Tip: Click the link "How it Works" in the center area of the page linked above. If you have a fast connection you might want to see the Quicktime movie. Otherwise, choose the self-paced tour. Be sure to visit the Gallery.

Hidden Worlds: Looking Through a Scientist's Microscope

Examine objects most people have never thought about: a mosquito's foot, a crystal of sugar, a grain of pollen, the delicate hairs on a blade of grass

The Usborne Book of Inventors: From Da Vinci to Biro

The men and women whose ideas and creations have changed our lives, from the earliest people who made weapons out of sticks and stones, to the masterminds of the computer age

Site: Learn.co.uk: Science - Key Stage 2

Author: Learn.co.uk

URL: http://www.Learn.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=Topic&WCU=7199

18 interactive lessons cover some basic concepts of physical and biological sciences for middle-grade children.

Tip: Click a linked word to get a pop-up definition

Tip: Learn.co.uk tutorials were designed to prepare students for the U.K.'s National Curriculum tests, but are super learning tools for anyone, anywhere.

Amazing Scientists: A Book of Answers for Kids

From Archimedes' water pump to Edward Jenner's smallpox vaccination, from Maria Mitchell's comet to Wilhelm Roentgen's x-ray, the amazing discoveries of individuals whose dedication to science changed the course of history

Nibbling on Einstein's Brain

The Good, the Bad and the Bogus in Science

Site: Learn.co.uk: Science - Key Stage 3

Author: Learn.co.uk

URL: http://www.Learn.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=Topic&WCU=3964

17 interactive lessons on life sciences, complete with short self-tests, and 13 on physical sciences. Lots and lots of interactivity.

Tip: Learn.co.uk tutorials were designed to prepare students for the U.K.'s National Curriculum tests, but are super learning tools for anyone, anywhere.

This site is a winner of Dr. Brain's Big Brain Award

Technology

Clear, expertly written text and hundreds of color illustrations lead young readers into a better understanding of technology through the ages

Medicine

Examine the human from inside out and explore the latest technologies coming to play in medicine in this colorful, fact-filled guide to the modern science.

Site: Learn.co.uk: Science - Key Stage 4 (Foundation)

Author: Learn.co.uk

URL: http://www.Learn.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=Topic&WCU=3964

26 interactive lessons on pysical, materials, and biological science. Written for middle-grade children, they're also a wonderful way to introduce yourself to science, or just brush up on all you've forgotten since school.

Tip: Learn.co.uk tutorials were designed to prepare students for the U.K.'s National Curriculum tests, but are super learning tools for anyone, anywhere.

Energy

Clear, well-written text and hundreds of beautiful illustrations combine to reveal the secrets of energy

Electricity and Magnetism

The principles behind electricity and magnetism, the most amazing (and sometimes accidental) historical breakthroughs, and dramatic developments that will radically affect our lives in the 21st century

Site: Learn.co.uk: Science - Key Stage 4 (Higher)

Author: Learn.co.uk

URL: http://www.learn.co.uk/default.asp?WCI=Topic&WCU=34209

27 lessons and tests applying knowledge gained in the tutorials above.

Tip: Learn.co.uk tutorials were designed to prepare students for the U.K.'s National Curriculum tests, but are super learning tools for anyone, anywhere.

Robots Among Us

The Challenges and Promises of Robots

1001 Facts about the Human Body

A world of knowledge about the human body at your fingertips! Absolutely bursting with thousands of fascinating facts

Site: How Artificial Hearts Work

Author: Marshall Brain

URL: http://www.howstuffworks.com/artificial-heart.htm

Marshall Brain (no relation) explains all about how artificial hearts are used, and how they work inside the body. Great color illustrations and good, clear text. The stuff that school report dreams are made of.

Tip: Each lesson has a printable version if you'd rather study offline.

Secret World of the Body

Bones, Muscle, Blood and Other Body Bits

The Brain: Our Nervous System

Full-color photographs, computer simulations, drawings, and three-dimensional models are used to grand effect to clarify, explain, and celebrate the remarkably complex system of brain and nerves

Site: How Cells Work

Author: Marshall Brain

URL: http://www.howstuffworks.com/cell1.htm

Marshall Brain (if that's really his name...) has created a fabulous learning experience here. All the basics about what cells are and how they work, including reproduction, poisons, viruses, and so much more. Great color illustrations and good, clear text. The stuff that school report dreams are made of.

Tip: Each lesson has a printable version if you'd rather study offline.

Guide to the Human Body: A Photographic Journey Through the Human Body

A collection of facts about the human body illustrated with computer-enhanced, close-up color photographs

Everything You Need to Know about English Homework

Can't seem to find that dangling participle? Unsure whether to use which or that? Keep this guide nearby to answer every English question with facts, skills, diagrams, and helpful hints

Site: Learn.co.uk - Homework Guide

Author: Learn.co.uk

URL: http://www.Learn.co.uk/homework/

"What is the point of homework?" begins this easy-to-follow guide for students of all ages, and who hasn't wondered that?. Covers numerous subjects relating to study habits, furniture, computers, spreadsheets, and calculators, using the internet, reference materials, and much, much more.

Everything You Need to Know about Math Homework

What does "rounding" mean? How can a number be changed from base 2 to base 10? These and many more math questions are easy as pie with this handy reference