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Funday Times In Search of the Lost Words
 
Title Screen   Example Screens
Hardware Platform(s): PC
Publisher (where known): News Multimedia Ltd
Curriculum Area(s): Literacy
 
Country of Origin: UK
Date of Publication: 1995
Phase(s): KS2

Evaluators' comments

This is an adventure game which involves searching for the `Lost Words' and fitting them into a narrative to reveal the story. Users make their way through a series of levels, collecting words to complete a page of the story at each level. Word games are included within each level, such as matching words and images, filling in missing letters from words, or finding words hidden in grids of letters.

Not applicable for support for the National Curriculum, but useful for additional word recognition practice at home.

The reading age is low and appropriate for the intended audience, although some of the words required for selection are of a higher level.

The disc is self-loading and has a very simple interface similar to some dungeon-style adventure games. Navigation is by means of cursor-initiated hot spots. The disc uses animation throughout. There is a long introductory sequence which sets the scene, and background sound is provided throughout the rest of the disc. There is an on-off button on each page for the sound, however background music cannot be switched off without also switching off the narration and occasional voiced instructions.

A short overview of the disc is provided. However, this does not include guidance on how to play, the objectives of the game, or how many levels must be completed.

A mixture of adventure game and word recognition exercise for home use. The storyline and style of animation might indicate that it would be appropriate for younger children. However, the language level and complexity of some of the games, and the length of time required to complete each level are more appropriate for children aged eight and above.

Evaluation Date: 1998

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