JumpStart World of Learning 2nd Grade

Gr 2—This program engages students in an exciting 3D world of adventure and learning. Each of the 12 units has a variety of learning games that focus on over 50 math, reading, and critical thinking skills. Players are rewarded for learning about clocks, tally charts, patterns, and calendars; they practice spelling, parts of speech, word building and classification; they alphabetize, count money, add, subtract, work with fractions, solve word problems, and answer comprehension questions. Each activity resembles an arcade game and requires some dexterity with the mouse or keyboard. Instructions are both written and read aloud. Students are motivated to keep learning and earning gems with which they can buy things. They will love personalizing the game by decorating their cabin, adding pictures to billboards and walls, and choosing music and pets to accompany them on their adventure. JumpStart 3D Virtual World uses adaptive learning technology, which varies the number of rounds necessary to complete a level and master a lesson, depending on a students' responses; it also grows as the student succeeds, adding characters, new areas to explore, and levels of difficulty. More capable students can't jump ahead and skip easier levels. A classroom management system allows teachers to view the progress of the class and of individual students; progress reports can be exported. Creative use of technology, engaging graphics, and attention to educational standards make this a learning game that will keep kids' attention and help them grow academically.—MaryAnn Karre, Horace Mann Elementary School, Binghamton, NY