Zoombinis Mountain Rescue CD-Rom

Zoombinis are lively blue creatures with hair, eyes, noses and feet that can be varied by the user of the CD-Rom on which they appear. Their adventures on Zoombinis Mountain Rescue involve key stage 2 learners in decisions such as organising information, testing hypotheses or formulating strategies to bring them to safety. The graphics are good and the problems are intriguing, promoting mathematical thought without number-crunching. A 45-page, on-screen user guide provides a key. Made by The Learning Company (tel: 01664 481563), the CD-Rom has a recommended price of pound;19.99, from Dixons, WH Smith and other stores. Website: www.mindscape.com Zoombini fans wanting to take part in a real adventure could win a place on an action day at Cheddar caves and gorge. Children aged seven to 12 should write in explaining in no more than 100 words why they think they should become a Zoombini private investigator. Send entries to Zoombinis HQ, Band amp; Brown Communications, 57 Jamestown Road, London NW1 7DB. Closing date is January 25.