Product Tips

Math Software

Volume 1 / Issue 3 / Spring 2001

In this issue I evaluate three mathematics software programs that cover a rigorous curriculum from prealgebra to advanced calculus: Math Advantage 2001, by Encore Education; Excel@Mathematics, by Knowledge Adventure; and StudyWorks! Mathematics Deluxe, by Math Soft. These programs use different approaches for engaging the user’s interest and teaching the material. To make your selection easier, I have described each program’s methods so you can match them to your child’s specific needs.

The teachers’ choice is Math Advantage 2001, a seven-CD set designed for students ages 11 and up. It provides comprehensive, detailed instruction in eight subjects: prealgebra, algebra I, algebra II, geometry, trigonometry, precalculus, calculus, and statistics. Each disk has a tutorial section that clearly explains and illustrates terms, rules, formulas, and principles. Oral narration corresponding to the print material on the screen reinforces the content for auditory learners. Each lesson contains hyperlinks to a reference library of terms, symbols, and formulas. Historical facts on the origins of mathematical concepts and famous mathematicians offer enrichment for the curious learner.

Math Advantage 2001 contains timed tests, games, progress reports, and hundreds of practice problems, with hints for solving and detailed explanations of the solutions. A pop-up calculator is always accessible. The Genius Corner challenges advanced students with higher-level critical thinking activities, and the Parent-Teacher Corner incorporates mathematical concepts into practical applications suitable for projects. The graphics are excellent, providing hundreds of interactive examples and simulations, and the program is easy to use.

Math Advantage 2001 is adaptable for grade-level and advanced students. The prealgebra CD reinforces concepts appropriate for fifth- and sixth-graders as well as for students in prealgebra classes. Its uses include instruction, review, and enrichment. However, the interactive sections are not as engaging as they could be, and Math Advantage 2001 is not for students who need games to pique their interest.

Excel@Mathematics contains the same basic curriculum as Math Advantage 2001, although the prealgebra course must be downloaded from an Internet site. Set up like an Internet page, Excel@Mathematics is simple to use, and the graphics are good. The auditory component gives instructions for using the program; however, it does not consistently provide explanations of mathematical operations, so the program is more suitable for visual learners.

Excel@Mathematics is conceptually sound, but it is more useful for reviewing than for initial teaching. Based on the FOCUS study system (an educational method to improve study skills), it guides independent students through a well-organized series of steps that helps them focus on a particular topic; plan a strategy; choose the appropriate pretest, study, practice, and posttest options; and use test results to assess and track their progress.

The games included in Excel@Mathematics are a plus. Math Blaster Pre-Algebra, Math Blaster Geometry, and The Cruncher are highly interactive and fun, requiring students to solve problems in order to keep playing. Unlike the Math Advantage 2001 simulations, which are not subject-oriented, these games provide the interactive play that some children need to sustain their interest.

StudyWorks! Mathematics Deluxe presents the same curriculum, along with business math and SAT II practice. The specified grade range is 7–12, although the program is more suited to advanced, highly independent students. It does not teach step-by-step problem solving; instead, it challenges knowledgeable, motivated students to seek outside resources and to collaborate with others in solving problems.

StudyWorks! Mathematics Deluxe is not as user-friendly as the other two programs, and learning to navigate it takes time. What looks like a great deal of white space on the screen is actually work space where students may copy equations from the Resource Center library and solve them. The program also allows students to create graphs and reports. The pop-up Math Palette is always accessible for simple to highly complex functions.

One of StudyWorks! Mathematics Deluxe’s main features is its on-line component. Links connect the student to Internet resources and technical support, and the Collaboratory allows e-mail connections for group work or for help from a program administrator. Other useful features are the animated graphs and the games and puzzles. Advanced students will be intrigued by the high-level critical thinking and logic puzzles.

For the mathematically gifted child, StudyWorks! Mathematics Deluxe is probably the most challenging of the three programs. Math Advantage 2001 is an excellent choice for children with a broad range of mathematical abilities. However, if games are what keep your child engaged, purchase Excel@Mathematics. Above all, involve your child in making the selection—you’re sure to pick a winner.
—Sarah Boone

Sarah Boone has an M.A. in teaching and certification in gifted education. She teaches at Meredith College.