Fun with Franklin: Puzzle Book

Alison Mews is co-ordinator of the Centre for Instructional Services at
Memorial University of Newfoundland.

These four activity books based on the Franklin series are a wonderful
addition to any child’s learning library, even if he or she already
had Franklin’s Activity Center CD-ROM, since the activities are quite
different and help children practise pencil dexterity.

The activities in the first three books consist of mazes, matchups,
hidden pictures, and word games. A Learning to Read Book reinforces
comprehension of vowels, consonants, and consonant blends, as well as
simple letter recognition. It also provides activities designed to
increase understanding of sentences (noun search, verb game, sentence
scramble). Puzzle Book and Activity Book contain variations of many of
the same games, but the focus is more recreational than educational.
Trace and Colour Book includes tracing paper and line drawings of
Frank-lin, his friends, and his environment. Children can choose a silly
or serious Franklin face, combine it with one of the bodies, add a
friend, and build a Franklin scene for coloring. Children who lack
confidence to draw freehand can create interesting Franklin pictures
while at the same time practising their fine motor skills.

The covers of all four books are attractively designed and will entice
children to peek inside. Unfortunately, reproduction rights are not
granted to teachers, so these captivating and reasonably priced books
cannot be used in classroom situations. Recommended for home use.