Archive for December, 2009

Burt Word Reading Test

The Burt Word Reading Test is designed to determine the reading level of a child in comparison to their age.

It is a list of 110 words organised in groups of 10 and listed on order of reading difficulty. Once the test is completed the correct answers are counted then, using the scale supplied in the instructions the child’s reading age can be estimated.

There are a number of different versions for the test. Currently the most widely used is that based on a sample of 2200 primary school children in Scotland. Generally the test is not recommended for children younger than approximately 6 years.

The test is widely used in New Zealand after being revised for New Zealand conditions. The test is conducted on an individual basis.

Used in alongside other information the test allows teachers to make an evaluation of a child’s reading ability and can help identify wider reading problems.

You can purchase the New Zealand version of the test from here: Burt Word Reading Test NZ revision

Baby Stroller Plates

Baby stroller plates are  gifts which can be with children for many years of their life.

The plates are typically made from the same materials as car number plates but are much smaller.

The outside is often reflective acrylic and can be easily attached to a pram, buggy, crib, cot or door.

They come in a range of colours, with some models displaying a unique number on the plate, as well as the name of the recipient. Read the rest of this entry

The Tallest Freestanding Sculpture

The tallest freestanding sculpture in the world is Chief Crazy Horse in South Dakota, USA

World War 2 Casualties

During World War II, the very first bomb dropped on Berlin by the Allies killed the only elephant in the Berlin Zoo

Indonesian Islands

Indonesia consists only of islands – 13,667 total

Top Priced Monopoly Set

A Monopoly set made by Alfred Dunhill, that included gold and silver houses and hotels, sold for $25,000. This is the top price recorded to date.