Internet Coach Puzzle Builder

Reviewed by Ange Kenos
Published by Apte, Inc.

Age Group: Age 4 to 8, Age 8 and Up
Type: Language Arts, Puzzles/Memory, Foreign Language, Teaching Tools
Price: $42.95

PC version requires:
486, Windows 3.1/95/98/NT, 16 MB RAM , 4X CD-ROM drive, 256 colors

Mac version requires:
68040 Processor or Power PC, System 7.1, 12 MB RAM (16 MB preferred), 4X CD-ROM drive

Description:

Apte describes theirInternet Coach Puzzle Builder as "the ultimate educational tool to improve vocabulary and spelling." This is based on the great array of different types of thinking activities that can be utilized.

However, the fun factor cannot be underrated.

Activities range from crosswords to a scrabble type game, word paint, word search, anagrams, secret codes and much more.

Features:

  • Design-your-own word puzzles
  • Clip art and clip sound
  • Teacher's reference guide
  • Online link to the company web site
  • Built-in help mechanism
  • Fun and very educational, particularly at lower primary level

Technical Aspects:

Installation and operation was simplicity itself. Moreover, the CD includes its own sound and graphics plus even more via its online link. However, these are more for the kids than adults.

It is designed more for the visual effect and thus a hearing impaired person will also benefit from the many learning/ fun activities.

Report and Conclusions:

To be totally honest, at first we did not like it due to our own perceptions of puzzle design etc. But once we accepted the guiding of the help mechanism, it all fell into place easily and every member of our family had a go.

Within a few limitations, YOU can design any word pattern that appeals to you (in a crossword, anagram etc). These limitations are quite acceptable, such as inappropriate language can be filtered out.

I have decided to recommend it to my wife's elementary school colleagues, with her support.




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