The Science of Fun Sure, sociology, biology and astrology can all be interesting, but for sheer enjoyment, you can't beat Funology. At the Funology Web site, you'll get the inside track on the science of having fun! Laughs and learning go hand-in-hand at www.funology.com. With amazing graphics and nonstop amusement, this site is a can't-miss for all kids. Check out That's Odd, where you'll learn amazing facts, including the measurements of the sun and the speed of a lightning bolt. For some mind-melters, swing by Brain Drains, featuring the Secret Code and Geography Quiz. Into magic? Then get ready to learn some super tricks, such as the Mummy Finger, Invisible Ink and the Amazing Floating Egg. You'll even lift an ice cube with a piece of string. And visit Tummy Ticklers for wacky riddles and jokes. Funology is the Web site that chases boredom away. (Disclaimer: This site now contains advertisements.)
Just Dewey It Finding your way around the library isn't always as easy as it looks. Some libraries use the Library of Congress system to categorize books. Other libraries use the Dewey Decimal system. You'll find Dewey alive and well at the "Do We" Really Know Dewey Web site. Hit the books at http://library.thinkquest.org/5002 and prepare to meet Melvil Dewey, the mastermind behind this book classification system that organizes books into 10 categories. You'll also learn about Dewey's other accomplishments, including the founding of the American Library Association and the opening of the first library school at Columbia University. Tracking down books has never been this much fun or educational. Do the Dewey! Patent Pending Eureka! It's a site about inventors and patents just for kids. If you've got the inventing bug, check out what happens at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office Kids Pages. Hurry over to www.uspto.gov/go/kids/index.html. Almost everything we love was invented by somebody, and every inventor gets a patent or a trademark to let the world proudly know "that's my invention." Learn how to come up with a great invention, solve brain-twizzling puzzles or play inventive games. Feeling extra creative? Then paint an eye-catching poster, write an inspiring poem, or design your own virtual museum exhibit. Who knows? Your brain might invent you a cool contest prize.
1. What are nonfiction books about?
Dear Amy: What is a computer chip? --Sean, Kingston, Jamaica Dear Sean: Computer chips are the microprocessors in your computer. They process messages and perform operations to make your computer work. The first microprocessor computer chip was developed in 1971 by Intel. To learn more about the fascinating world of computer chips, check out How Microprocessors Work at www97.intel.com/education/index.asp. (This page is no longer available.)