Mathematics Software Programs
are
excellent adjuncts to classroom instruction. They offer appealing
interfaces, zany characters and good reviews of basic mathematics.
Another advantage of mathematics software is the opportunity for
students to work independently and make discoveries about mathematics on
their own. The interactive nature of computer software allows students
to test their ideas and transfer information from an example to a
general premise.
The following software programs are recommended for students because
they cover several of the mathematics strands outlined in the MDE
(Michigan Department of Education) Mathematics Content Standards and
they are considered to be challenging and fun programs.
Each software program includes a summary of the program, comments by
a reviewer, a description of the MDE mathematics strands covered, the
manufacturers name and information to purchase the program.
These programs were review for the 1997/98 school year. Software
manufactures are continually introducing new software. To get
information about the latest educational software parents and teachers
can check their local library for a subscription of Children’s
Software Revue. Children’s Software Revue also has a Web
page at the following address: www.childrenssoftware.com.
Mathematics Software: Math Workshop by Broderbund (Grades 1-5)
Broderbunds Math Workshop allows students to choose from a number of
games and activities. While playing these games the students learn math
skills such as, problem solving, estimation, basic operations,
computation, fractions, pattern recognition, spatial thinking and
logical reasoning.
The student begins in a control room, where the main character named
Polly Gonzales explains each of the seven games. The student chooses one
of the following seven games: Bowling for Numbers, Hidden Picture
Puzzles, Puzzle Patterns, Super Sticklers, Rhythm Shop, Rockets or
Pattern Windows. Each game is intended to develop specific math skills.
The Users’ Guide contains a special section for parents outlining the
educational benefits of each game.
Comments:
One of the nice features of this program is that every game can be
played at multiple levels allowing the student to work at his/her own
pace. The program is easy to use and information is readily available.
A few of the game highlights are:
- Bowling for Numbers. The students answer math questions in order
to allow a gorilla to bowl for strikes. This game is a fun and
challenging way for students to practice drilling math facts in
addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. This game also
contains questions that require mental math and estimation.
- Rockets. This game uses a number pad to launch rockets. The object
of the game is to be the player that launches the last rocket. This
game encourages students to use problem-solving approaches to
investigate, develop and apply strategies.
MDE Content Standard Strands
- Patterns, Relationships and Functions
- Geometry and Measurement
- Number Sense and Numeration
- Numerical and Algebraic Operations and Analytical Thinking
Manufacturer: Broderbund(Ages 6-10,Grades 1-5)
Approximate Cost: $40
Contact Information: 1-415-382-4700 www.broderbund.com
Mathematics Software: Mighty Math
Calculating Crew by Edmark (Grades
3-6)
Edmark’s Calculating Crew is a problem-solving and math
computational software program that uses super heroes to present math
concepts.
The student chooses a game and an ability level, they can switch
games and ability levels as often as they wish. The ability levels
include a wide range, making this program suitable for many levels of
math students.
Comments:
The superhero theme is appealing to 4th graders. The
program is loaded with games and activities that can be played at
multiple ability levels.
Some of the software’s highlights include estimation and rounding,
a section on money and a three-dimensional geometry section.
The three-dimensional section asks the students to visualize
three-dimensional solids illustrated two-dimensionally. The shapes are
illustrated as patterns that need to be folded in order to create the
three-dimensional shape. This section is very challenging and builds
understanding of three-dimensional solids.
MDE Content Standard Strands
- Patterns, Relationships and Functions
- Geometry and Measurement
- Number Sense and Numeration
- Numerical and Algebraic Operations and Analytical Thinking
Manufacturer: Edmark (Ages 8-11,Grades 3-6)
Approximate Cost: $40
Contact Information: 1-800-426-0856 www.edmark.com
|
