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A few weeks ago, Dave Banks reviewed a group of kid-orientated math iPhone apps. This is an ever-expanding category, and among the most recent entries is Addo, an addition-based app from MathSparks. The app has 3 levels: tiny (single digits), small (one or two digits), and big (up to three digits). In each level, an equation is presented; the items to be added are represented visually; and three-possible answers are at the bottom of the screen.
The app has three real strengths: first, the interface is dead simple; second, the child tries 5 problems at a time (not so many that it's interminable); and third, each level visually introduces a different strategy. "Tiny" numbers are represented by pieces of fruit. "Small" numbers (seen here in the screencap) are represented more abstractly, in groups of 5. "Big" numbers are presented directly on the screen, one above the other, and the child has the opportunity to try out adding the numbers before selecting the right answer.
The simplicity of the app is also its weakness: There is no feedback for wrong answers. You're told how many you got right, but if you miss one, you're neither told why nor shown the correct answer.
It's rated for kids 4-6, but I think it's best audience is children who haven't started kindergarten. For those children, it introduces the idea of counting by 5, and also helps you quickly eliminate impossible multiple-choice answers.
Wired: Simple interface; teaches problem-solving techniques that align well with kindergarten and first-grade
Tired: Multiple-guess input; no feedback for wrong answers.
Price: $0.99USD (iTunes link)
- 5 Basic Math Apps for the iPhone and Your Kids (wired.com)
