Blog Post 3.5

Carlos Torres
Prof. Little
Applied Calc 1
April 5, 2015

Blog 3.5

1) Algebra Touch is an IOS application available on the App Store for $2.99 available for iPhone, iPad and iPod Touch. This tool serves as a way for many high school students who struggle with grasping basic Algebra to overcome their struggles in a fun an innovative way. This tool requires the user to be acquainted with the basic mathematical concepts leading up to Algebra, such as common arithmetic problems. Algebra Touch covers a wide range of mathematical concepts, such as "simplification, like terms, commutativity, order of operations, factorization..." and many others.  The app is very user-friendly, it allows for users to create their own algebraic equations and solve them, these are afterwards stored in the iCloud, the app also randomly generates practice problems, constantly challenging the users in a fun and interactive way. This resource would be appropriate for the setting I have chosen because it helps middle school and high school students that struggle with basic Algebra to be able to see basic algebraic problems in new light. I recommend this application under the condition that one be properly acquainted with the necessary concepts needed to be understood before taking Algebra I and II.













2) Khan Academy is a great tool for anybody. The website focuses on shedding light on mathematical concepts that might seem obscure to many students. The way it achieves this is by posting free virtual videos explaining such mathematical concepts and by providing users with interactive exercises that cover a wide variety of topics. Khan Academy has summarised its purpose as "changing education for the better by providing a free world-class education to anyone anywhere." There is not a precise math skill which is needed in order to use this valuable tool because it covers all of the basic mathematical concepts in order to help people of all ages and educational categories. I recommend this resource to anybody seeking tutor-like guidance in order to understand mathematical concepts.

3) MathWay is a powerful tool that allows people to plug in  mathematical formulas, after these are plugged in, the application numbers all of the necessary steps in order to achieve a mathematical solution. This application covers a wide range of mathematical topics, such as: Basic math, pre-algebra, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, precalculus, calculus, statistics, finite math and other topics.  This tool would help a broad amount of people struggling with basic mathematical concepts, such as the group I selected. I recommend the use of this resource under the conditions that students use this tool responsibly in such a way that will enable them to actually understand mathematical concepts and not just go through them in order to plainly get the answers.

4) Bike Racing Math Algebra is an internet game in which the user is rewarded with extra speed on his motorcycle after a number of correct answers. A series of correct answers will lead to the victory of the user. The student must have basic algebraic understanding in order to be effective at the game. It would be age appropriate and stimulating for the user group. I do suggest that the users manage their time responsibly, because it can be a very fun and competitive game to play.