Rating: (1-5)

Relevance to objectives: 5  through positive reinforcement, the child will grasp the idea of telling time  and gain a better sense of direction as to where they live in the world, and how the layout of the land all over the world is.  Students can ask questions to places that may have appeared on the maps and don't know why.  The game gives a clear answer to the questions.
Provides practice of relevant skills: 4  The games are very repetitive and persistant children will definitly gain skills for each learning activity that can easily be brought back to the classroom.
Likely to arouse/maintain interest: 4  I was very interested in the games.  It was very educational, but fun to do.  I believe children could really benefit from this type of game.
Likely to be comprehended clearly: 3  If a child does not understand something they can go to the question and answer mode.  However, if the child doesn't really know what to ask or doesn't know what they did wrong, it could be frustrating.
Technical quality (durable, attractive): 4  I felt that the graphics were pretty appealing, especially the Symbol Sandbox.  You can make mountains, water or any type of landscape you want to create using symbols.  This might be a little challenging for some second graders.
Game: Winning dependent on player actions (rather than chance): N/A   There is no winner nor a losser.  This game is designed as a learning tool, not competition.
Simulation: Validity of game model (realistic, accurate depiction):  4  The game is very realistic in the sense that time really exhists and it's important to tell time and to know what the geography of the world is.  It's valid for real world knowledge.
Evidence of effectiveness (e.g. field-test results):  4 The teacher I borrowed this game from stated that her students improved in telling time by about 50%.  Telling time is difficult for students just starting out, but with repetitive practice they have easier comprehension
Clear directions for play: 3 The directions are verty clear because of the Explore and Discover Mode as well as the Question and Answer Mode.   However, students need to be at (at least) a grade 2 reading level.
Effectiveness of debriefing:  5 You are able to go back and forth from where you have been to where you are to where you want to go to help reiterate what was "taught" prior.