November 14, 2014
Below is a set of good iPad apps that you can use with your kids and students to enhance their mathematical thinking. These apps are meant for young learners and are specifically useful when introducing kids to those rudimentary notions of mathematical computations. The purpose of teaching kids to think mathematically, as detailed in Kaye Stacey's paper, is three folds: First, it will allow kids to conduct mathematical investigations by themselves. Second, it will help them acquire other thinking skills particularly problem-solving and as mathematician Paul Halmos (1980) stated, 'problem solving is the heart of mathematics'. Third, it helps kids get a deeper appreciation of mathematics and use it in their daily and working lives.
1- Hands-on Math Hundreds Charts
Hands-On Math: Interactive Hundreds Chart creates a virtual math playground where students explore, investigate and discover mathematical concepts. Students use colored markers on the Interactive Hundreds Chart to represent patterns and number sequences.
2- Sushi MonsterStrengthen reasoning strategies for whole number addition and multiplication by helping monsters make a target sum or product. Earn points with each correct answer… but watch out for distractions! To be successful, plan ahead and strategically select numbers from the sushi counter.
3- Math Flash CardsDesigned for people of all ages, Math Flash Cards Multiplication is an app that allows the user to practice simple basic multiplication facts or extend the users ability to work out complex multiplication problems up to three digit numbers. Users can control the number of digits used to generate the problems. From one digit to three digits can be seclected by the user. Users also can control the number of questions given during one session.
4- Meerkat MathDesigned and programmed by two former high school teachers, Meerkat Math is more than just a runner game. Every level is packed full of questions that entertain and enlighten. Complete missions by running through eight mini-games on an island packed full of challenges. Play and level up to unlock all 8 modes.
5- Think 3D FreeExplore and interact with 3D shapes on a screen like you never have before. Some of the features it provides for users include:
- Choose from of a variety of 3D shapes
- Create unlimited combinations with colorful solids
- Add or remove solids with a single tap
- Drag one finger to rotate 3D images in any direction
- Zoom in and out for a better view
- Swipe to spin in any direction
- 3D creations saved in documents
6- Number Pieces BasicNumber Pieces Basic helps students develop a deeper understanding of place value while building their computation skills with multi-digit numbers. Students can use the number pieces to represent multi-digit numbers, count, regroup, add, and subtract. The drawing tools allow students to label representations and show their understanding.
