Gr 3-7-The videos in this series are fast-paced and informative. Each program starts with an attention-grabbing introduction and then proceeds briskly to describe the settlement and growth of the colony. An engaging young host is introduced to the history and life of each colonial settlement by an adult guide. Special attention is given to the lives of children in each colony and to their treatment of Native Americans. In the "It's About Time" feature, each video reviews the historical timeline of the colonization of North America in order to place the colony in context with the others. Each video also has a "History Mystery" feature which sustains viewers' interest by pointing out a little-known historical puzzle in each colony. Close captioning is available in each video. However, it is notably inferior in
William Penn and Pennsylvania where key words and concepts are skipped. Nonetheless, the quality of each production is excellent. The visuals, sound, narration, brisk pacing and sound information both informs young viewers and sustains their attention throughout.
Copyright 1999 School Library Journal. Used with permission.
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