Little Pim Fun with Languages

PreS-K—Little Pim, an engaging animated panda, is a familiar face in the world of foreign language instructional DVDs. Using a combination of clearly executed animated clips and footage of actual children engaged in the activities under examination, these short lessons are perfectly geared to the intended age group. Each DVD contains seven five-minute segments covering various aspects of the skill or language area being considered—items found in the home, feelings, or counting. For example, I Can Count covers "Counting in the Garden," "Counting Parts of the Body," "Counting Dogs and Cats," "Counting Shapes," "Counting with Babies," "Counting Treats," and "Count and Play." There is a nice progression from the simple repetition of the specific words appropriate to the lesson to the introduction of related concepts, words, and phrases. The engaging animation, with eye-catching shapes and bright colors, will hold the interest of young children. The opening screen allows for a choice of viewing by episode or the entire presentation, using the optional English subtitles, or watching an interview with the founder of Little Pim. The use of the control panel at the bottom of the screen is intuitive and easy to understand. The brief segments are perfect for classroom use. A welcome extension of a well-received and well-designed series.—Ann Welton, Helen B. Stafford Elementary, Tacoma, WA