4Kids.org: April 9, 2000

Bear With It
The wilds of Alaska are home to some of the most beautiful plants and animals in the world, including the awe-inspiring grizzly bear. At Showdown at Grizzly River, you'll enjoy the adventures of a bear cub and his elders living at the majestic McNeil River Falls. Head due north to www.pbs.org/wnet/nature/episodes/showdown-at-grizzly-river/introduction/2069. You will meet Toughie, a cub who must overcome many challenges to make it to adulthood, and Woofie, who spends his summers stealing salmon from his fellow bears. A section called Fish Food features the bears hunting and chowing down on their favorite meal: salmon. Bring your binoculars and prepare to feast your eyes on one of nature's most incredible sights.

Bloomin' Alaska Alaska is known for its snow, but it's also home to one of the most amazing collection of wildflowers in the world. Smell the flowers at http://library.thinkquest.org/6274. It's a great way to learn about how plants grow, how bees gather nectar, and how flowers survive in a frozen tundra. Dig the plant science, but you've got to stop and smell the roses in life, too, right? Why not start with the Alaskan Prickly Rose, also known as the "Itchy Bottom Plant." For all flower-loving folks, put on your virtual parka, button up and head to the Arctic while the bloom is on!

Learning Planet
Like games? Whether you're into crossword puzzles or memory games, you'll love the activities at the Learning Planet. Get ready to put your noodle into high gear at www.learningplanet.com. This site is loaded with interactive goodies for all ages. The games are categorized by age-level so you can play games that are just right for you. Rocket scientists will love Spacey Math, where players have to stop an alien invasion. Put your skills in math to good use, and save the world. Or help the site's resident sleuth, Detective N. A. Shell, find the hidden words at Word Search. Other challenges at the site include Fraction Frenzy and the United States Geography Quiz. Looking for more activities? Check out what other kids think at the Planet Poll. And be sure to treat yourself to a round of Brickball, a "breakout" style game with a baseball twist. Learning Planet's fun, educational games are definitely out of this world. (Disclaimer: This site now contains advertisements.)

When you know the answers to the questions below, enter your answers. If you are correct, you will become a "4Kids Detective of the Week." If a question is not answered it is considered wrong. Good luck.

1. What plants grow in the sub-alpine region?

some shrubs, no trees

wild flowers, shrubs, and trees

trees only

2. What Learning Planet game features Mr. Elephant?

Word Search

Memory Game

Brickball

3. How old are most bear cubs when they leave their mothers?

3 years old

1 year old

2 years old

Dear Amy: Are there any Web sites that can help me with my science fair project? --Jolene, Pomona, Calif.
Dear Jolene: What better place to get help with a science fair project than from a museum that specializes in science? Exploratorium's Learning Studio has info on science fairs at www.exploratorium.edu/lc/pathfinders/scifairs. The site offers resources for students, parents and educators, as well as info about the scientific method. Also, be sure to browse the book list and the supplies and materials link. Good luck on your project.

Dear Amy: I want to learn more about the new gold dollar. --Kerry, Columbus, Ohio
Dear Kerry: The U.S. Mint Web site has the scoop on the new Golden Dollar at www.usmint.gov/goldendollar/default.htm. Learn about the life of Sacagawea as well as about production of this beautiful coin. The Frequently Asked Questions link will help you get started in finding out more about the dollar. About the Golden Dollar offers information on the selection process that led to the production of the Sacagawea dollar, and the Golden Events link offers a cool timeline. (This site is no longer available.)

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