New Review: BrainPOP

Learning List has reviewed BrainPOP’s core content resources (i.e., science, social studies, mathematics, and English language arts) for grades K-8.

Overview of BrainPOP

BrainPOP is a supplemental program that supports instruction in the core content areas, as well as in technology, the arts and music, and health. Resources are available online and include some printable materials (e.g., worksheets). Instruction uses engaging videos and interactive concept maps to deliver content.

BrainPOP organizes instruction in topics that address a range of subject-area concepts (e.g., atoms, citizenship, writing skills). Topics include a short video in which animated characters named Annie (grades K-3) and Tim (grades 4-8), along with their robot friend Moby, explore a question (e.g., How do tornadoes form?). Videos

• provide background information

• explore and illustrate key concepts (e.g., updrafts), and

• introduce and define new vocabulary.

After the video, students can “Make a Map” and/or take a short quiz over the content. Make a Map allows students to create a concept map using a set of pre-made map templates or to create entirely new concept maps. The quiz is a five-question multiple-choice check for understanding.

Other resources include content-related games, an “FYI” feature, and additional activities related to the video. FYI is a set of 5-paragraph, illustrated, informational articles and a related comic that extends students’ learning.

About Learning List

Learning List has completed an editorial review of the program's instructional content, a standard-by-standard review of its alignment to the K-8 Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills for the four content areas, and a technology compatibility review. Contact info@Learninglist.com for information about a low-cost subscription to access Learning List's reviews of Brainpop and thousands of other widely used K-12 instructional materials.

About BrainPOP*

BrainPOP was founded in 1999, when pediatrician Dr. Avraham Kadar set out to make complex concepts easier for kids to understand. Built on Dr. Kada's belief that any child can become a confident learner, the company strives to "empower kids to understand the world around them and within them." BrainPOP supports core and supplemental subjects,

*Information in this section is provided by or adapted from BrainPOP.