Cartoon History of the Universe
This activity card accompanies the CD-ROM: Larry Gonick (1996) Cartoon History of the Universe (Macintosh, 2 CDs) Warning: teachers be sure to click on the restricted button to limit children to children’s version Are you ready to embark on a journey through history in a fun and exciting way? Let the interactive professor guide you to ancient times and places. And remember, have fun and let your imagination roam! Beginner:
• • • • Type in your name. Click on the professor and he will take you to his private study. Work your way around the study with the computer mouse. Notice how the objects light up when you touch them? Have fun with this! Click on the objects and see where they take you; then try to get back to the professor’s study. • Make sure to check out the time machine!
Good:
Now that you’ve mastered your navigational skills, let’s try a game. • From the study, click on the mythical Greek Minotaur (he has the face of a bull). Now try to find your way through the Minotaur’s tricky maze. The box in the lower left corner will help you find your way. • You will also find magic vases that will help you on your mission. • But, beware of the evil Minotaur! He will try and detour you from your destination. • Click on him with your sword to scare him away. • Once you’ve completed level 1, write up a tip that you think will help others get to the end of the maze. Be sure to put the tip in the activity folder.
Expert:
Remember the time machine? We are going to have some real fun with it now! • From the study, click on the time machine. • Select Volume 7: Early Athens (546 BC), and then click Go. • Now be ready to learn all about Greek history! Watch the history cartoon until you have reached page 49. • Now that you’re an expert, write a letter to Supernova describing what you’ve learned. • If you lived in ancient Greece what would you want to be? A philosopher or a warrior? A politician or a scientist? Make sure you tell Supernova what you picked and why.