Best New Software

Volume 31, Number 5, June 2004

Joanne Troutner

KIDSPIRATION 2.
Inspiration Software, Inc. Grades K-5. The upgrade of this superb software includes a number of enhanced tools and the ability to transfer to a word processor with a single click. Among the enhanced tools is a Symbol Maker drawing tool, allowing students to create their own pictures and use them as symbols in their webs. Another literacy building option is the pair words and symbols seen in the Writing View.

STUDY HELPERS—SPELLING BEE AND MATH BOOSTER.
Knowledge Adventure. Grades 1-5. These new additions to the Jump Start series provide three games for students to use for sharpening spelling and math skills. Using six levels of difficulty, students can practice spelling on already developed lists or improve their math skills in addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals and percentages. In addition, students or teachers can add their own words or math problems to be used in the games. Report features provide a list of students, their progress and success rate.

MORTON SUBOTNICK’S MAKING MUSIC.
Viva Media. Grades 1-6. The update to this classic software makes use of features available in newer computers and operating systems. Youngsters will still find the same open-ended composition options as well as a number of activities to help with aural skills. The game and building block options are especially well-crafted to help users gain basic music theory knowledge.

Joanne Troutner is director of Media/Technology for the Tippecanoe School Corporation and owner of Creative Computer Enterprises in Lafayette, Indiana. She can be contacted at troutner@mindspring.com.