Crosscountry USA Photo Safari is an interactive science and geography program designed to teach and strengthen many different skills. Students become wildlife photographers and are assigned to take pictures of endangered animals on their journey. The program encourages students to have fun while they learn:
- facts about the United States (weather, terrain, cities, population, and more)
- basic map-reading and map-interpretation skills
- how to budget (time, distance, and expenses)
- problem-solving skills
- an understanding of animal habitats
- what animals need to survive
- the appearance and behavior of animals
- human impact on animals
The program may be played on different levels.
Younger children tend to use the program at an introductory level. They learn basic facts about map reading and the differences in terrain across the country. Crosscountry USA Photo Safari also teaches students where cities and states are located, as well as where endangered animals live.
Older children tend to use the program on a more complex level. They learn the facts, but they also learn methods for determining the fastest, most cost-effective route to their destination. In addition, older children learn about animals' life cycles, human impact on animals, and ecosystems.
The game is an excellent tool to promote geographical literacy. It also helps broaden children's knowledge about the US while developing higher-level thinking skills.
*Please note: An animal's status (e.g. endangered or threatened) may change depending on a variety of factors. Also, animals may be listed differently at the state and federal levels.
