Knowledge Quest–TimeMaps

• TimeMaps The Collection-Maps that move through time!
• Presented by Knowledge Quest
• Suitable for all grade levels
• Available as CD Rom or as an electronic product download
• Each TimeMap is available individually for $9.95
• The Collection (all maps) available for $44.95
• Included maps: Ancient China, Rise of Rome, Fall of Rome, Rise of Islam, Black Death, European Explorers
• TimeMaps features:
  • Over 75 maps included on the CD
  • Embedded information in each map
  • Interactive
  • Animated
  • Teacher Notes
  • Worksheets
  • Blank timelines and maps

Ben (10) and I have been reviewing an amazing collection of maps from Knowledge Quest. Ben was quickly drawn in and spent hours reading the information contained on one map, then clicking to the next era and reading more.

Timelines, historical maps and encyclopedia information merge to create a complete picture of a period of time. Each map is interactive and animated to let students see the changes that are happening and gain a better understanding of how history fits together.

Ben found the embedded encyclopedia information fascinating. He liked that he could click on the information symbol, or various figures on the map itself and read about what was going on in that land during a specific period of time.  Worksheets are also provided to offer in-depth exercises. We looked at the worksheets, but have not used them yet. Since the maps on this program do not match up with the American History we are studying, we have just used this program as a supplement for fun. When Ben would pick a map to study, he would spend an hour or more reading  the information on each map.

While I did not specifically use the Teacher pages with Ben, I looked through them and found them to be full of activities designed to strengthen a students understanding, not only of the geography of the the area being studied, but also the political undertones of the time period. There are a variety of activities from answering questions out loud (answers included) to essay questions designed to make kids ponder. Commentary on each map is  provided as an overview when time is at a premium and going into depth would be too much.  Also included in the teacher pages are blank timelines, and outline maps of the areas studied.

Recommendation

Ben and I would recommend this product to others. He enjoyed using it in his spare time and I can see it being a great addition to an in depth study of one of the time periods covered.

We received a CD-ROM for this review. The program is also available as an e product through a download. I was also able to download the product.  Either option worked well for me. I had no trouble with the download or the CD. The advantage of the CD –ROM for our family is that Ben can use any computer available instead of just the one with the maps downloaded on it.

Something to keep in mind is that the program requires independent reading if a student is using it by themselves. For a student who has trouble reading, a parent may want to sit and read the information out loud.

My Crew Mates also reviewed Knowledge Quest products. Some reviewed TimeMaps and others reviewed MapTrek. Click on the banner below to visit the Crew Blog and read other reviews.

Disclaimer:  As an Independent contractor for The Old Schoolhouse and member of the Schoolhouse Review Crew I received TimeMaps CD-ROM, for free from Knowledge Quest in exchange for my honest review of their product.  All opinions given are mine and/or my children’s.