The Fun Way to Learn Algebra- FREE- Hands-On Equations 1 Lite

Hands-on Equations Lite teaches important skills for solving algebra equations using a hands-on method most kids will find entertaining and helpful.

Designed for third graders and above, the app is easy to use and contains content appropriate for that skill level.

Features include:

• Video demonstrations
• Hands-on activities

 

The educational content is exceptional, but the overall design makes this app seem like a lower quality app – which it isn’t. This is why we are giving the app 4 stars out of 5 for quality.

The overall design of the app is very basic and uncluttered, with notebook paper theme. The simple design of the app makes it easy to use by all within the targeted audience. Kids as young as third grade could use the app. Considering that the app contains very little text for users to read and depends mostly on video demonstrations and algebra equations users do not need to be extremely proficient readers.

The app does have enjoyable background music that adds an entertaining element; it can be muted for those that might find it distracting, videos and lesson activities are of good quality and nicely done.

Some may say that an educational app such as this one should be kept basic and I agree to a certain point, but I also think that it needs a little something more so kids will want to use the app. To have staying power this app needs some simple design enhancements such as higher quality looking pop-ups.

Hands-on Equations 1 Lite is a fantastic way for kids to improve their algebra skills. By using hands-on exercises combined with video demonstrations working through the equations will be easy and stress-free. The app provides a positive educational experience for all users no matter their abilities.

The learning method is for kids to watch the short video demonstration, complete two practice equations and then move on to complete 10 exercises. Dr. Borenson’s approach is to use a blue pawn to represent X in the equation, number cubes and a balance scale so kids can physically build a visual representation of the equation. An auto check feature is built into the practices and exercises.

More educational than entertaining, this Hands-on Equations app does still provide a level of entertainment through the hands-on activities. The videos can be a bit dry and the app design could use a few simple enhancements, but the hands-on activities make up for those items. Once I got started on the hands-on activities of the lessons I didn’t want to stop.

This free app provides plenty of content to give you an idea of what could be expected with the paid apps in the series. The free download contains three lessons; each lesson is made up of a video, two practices and 10 exercises.

The full Level 1 version is available for purchase in iTunes, as are additional levels.

Hands-on Equations 1 Lite is easy to use for kids 8+ and contains lessons and exercises appropriate for those just starting with algebra or those who may be struggling.

This app needs some minor changes before it can be considered completely kid-safe. The ratings pop-up that appears between lessons needs to be removed. It is inappropriate for a pop-up such as this to interrupt kids during an educational app. A button could be added in the About Us menu which already contains other links for adults. The buttons for additional apps should also be moved to the About Us menu. The About Us menu does contain social media buttons and external links. Grouping all such links and buttons in a menu for parents would increase the child-friendly rating for this app.

APP DETAILS

The Fun Way to Learn Algebra - FREE - Hands-On Equations 1 Lite by Hands On Equations

Price: $ free | DOWNLOAD
Content Rating: 4+
User Rating: (309 store ratings)
App Categories: Education, Utilities
Works on: iPad WiFi, iPadFourthGen, iPad 3G, iPadFourthGen4G, iPadThirdGen4G, iPad 2 WiFI, iPadThirdGen, iPad 2 3G, iPadMini, iPadMini4G

App Store Description:
Teach your children the joys of learning algebra with Hands-On Equations 1 Lite – the fun, FREE algebra app for the iPad for children as young as eight! "This is an excellent app for teaching the fundamentals of algebra, especially for visual learners."- bestappsforkids.com. Algebra can be a tricky subject to master but with the help of Hands-On Equations 1 Lite, equations like 4x+2=3x+9 become child’s play! The app takes advantage of the iPad’s visual and touch features to demystify complex algebraic concepts. The original Hands-On Equations program, using physical game pieces, has already helped more than a million students gain confidence with algebra. Now that same, proven method is available virtually in the palm of your hand__ for FREE!< ... [read more on the App Store]

Languages: English, French, German, Italian, JA, KO, Polish, Russian, Spanish
File Size: 54.46 MB
Current Version: 1.5