Information Technology

May 19, 2008

Scholastic Offers Web 2.0 Homework Help

Looking for homework help that stops short of a tutor for your elementary school student? Maybe one who needs some extra help with science and math?

Scholastic has launched a new subscription web site called StudyJams!, designed to engage kids in grades 3 through 6. Mixing videos, music, and gaming, the site guides kids through math concepts and scientific theory with clear and animated explanations.

My fifth grader spent some time on it, and what struck me most is that she did spend time on it. She didn't get bored quickly, and seemed naturally engaged in a video on how the eye works. She also took some of the math tests, and read through some of the math explanations.

The videos are narrated by four animated teen-age characters that serve as guides on the site. Created with the help of teachers, the site is also a resource for parents looking for trusted information to help answer their kids' questions during the busy homework hours.

It's password-protected, and it'll cost you a subscription to use it: $9.95 a month or $99 for a year. You can check it out for a 14-day free trial to see if it's something your kids will use. Compare it with some of the references in the link below and let us know what you think.

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