Math 42
By Ashley Kemper,
Common Sense Media Reviewer
Common Sense Media Reviewers
Incredible step-by-step solving and quizzing tool.
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Math 42
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What’s It About?
Using MATH 42, kids can solve their own math problems or use the built-in assessment tool to practice their math skills. If teens choose to input their own equations, they use the calculator-like platform to create their problem. Then, the app runs a query and lists the different ways to solve that problem. As kids click on the blue hyperlink, step-by-step instructions detail each part of the procedure. Kids can also select topics and use the built-in equations to practice. To solve practice problems, kids click on the graduation cap and select the type of problems they want to solve. After choosing from a multiple-choice list, teens can see each procedure for solving the problem. Users can click on the gear to adjust the level, adjust the topic, and show progress.
Is It Any Good?
Overall, this tool is great to have in the hands of kids learning math. Specifically, the varied approach to solving each problem and the breakdown of each procedure into steps make it especially great for users who forget a part. The built-in assessment feature is also simple to use and records success rates over time so kids can see their progress. Because the text can be dense, it's probably a better fit for young teens, but tweens who are strong readers might also benefit. It also seems like the text is translated from a different language, so the wording can be a bit awkward throughout. Ultimately, however, Math 42 might be a boost for kids who need extra help.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how many ways there are to solve math problems. Using Math 42, insert an equation and see how many approaches the app tool uses to find each solution. As a family, discuss why it's important to look for multiple ways to solve problems, both in math and real life.
Challenge each other on various difficulty levels in the assessment portion of the app. Track growth each week to see how each family member improves over time.
App Details
- Device: Android
- Subjects: Math: algebra, arithmetic, calculus, functions
- Skills: Self-Direction: academic development, self-assessment
- Pricing structure: Free (full features available via in-app purchase)
- Release date: December 4, 2016
- Category: Education
- Topics: STEM, Numbers and Letters
- Publisher: Cogeon GmbH
- Version: 3.1
- Minimum software requirements: 5.1 and up
- Last updated: July 31, 2019
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