SoftTeach’s Skeleton software is not new by any means - I worked with the BBC Model B version - but I suspect there’s many a teacher unaware of this little gem of a program that just keeps getting better.
Aimed at key stage 2 classes, Skeleton neatly combines data handling and construction in science in one package. It makes any Human Body aspect of the curriculum come to life! Pupils measure the major parts of their body ñ the computer prints out their skeleton parts to scale and they cut and paste their own made-to-measure skeleton. It could be an ideal homework project. You can print out groups of bones or the whole skeleton. Using Skeleton a teacher can make a life-size class display model, or children can work in groups to produce different size skeletons. One tip here though: from experience, it is wise to have a wire coat hanger from which to hang those large-scale skeletons. You can use brass ‘butterfly’ clips for the flexible joints.
Detailed instruction sheets are included: one visually describes how to use the software and also offers a skeleton reference. The second sheet presents a list of skeleton parts and a very helpful ‘Tricky Assembly Details’ guide to constructing the awkward bits. To construct a skeleton only requires printer paper, pencil, scissors, and glue. Entering the data is very simple: personal measurements are entered via a table and only the length measurement is entered in each case.
In terms of functionality the software has improved considerably. It now not only creates a much more realistic skeleton, but creates better fitting paper bones. Simple but effective, Skeleton 2.1 is an absolute must for every primary school.
Soft Teach Educational,
Sturgess Farmhouse,
Longbridge Deverill,
Warminster,
Wilts.
BA12 7EA
+44 (0)1985 840 329
+44 (0)1985 840 331
sales@soft-teach.co.uk
www.soft-teach.co.uk
Prices: 1 to 5 user licence £35
Site Licence £105
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