Software Evaluation #1

Title of Software: Math & Science Excelerator

Producer: Topics Entertainment

Target students (e.g., age or grade-level of students): 4th – 5th

Proficiency level (e.g., beginning, intermediate, advanced): Advanced

Description:
This program uses mathematical skills that are interactive with four different characters. The characters are categorized by different mathematical concepts at various levels.

One character uses (x) and (÷). The student needs to be familiar with a calculator for multiplication and the division was easy to follow because of the use of equal groups.

Another character uses 3-D shapes (geometry) in two different formats. One format is identifying the shape with the vocabulary words (very effective for ELLs) and the other was examining the number of faces the shape has and matching the fact with the 3-D shape.

The third character used problem solving through (+), (-), and counting change and dollar bills.

The final character used a number line to count with. I wasn’t quite sure how to figure this character out so, this was not the best character for an ELL student.

What I enjoyed most with the program is the graphics. The students would really enjoy how creative the producers were with the characters. I also found that the level of difficulty can be adjusted easily by simply using the letters of the alphabet A being the easiest and Z being the most difficult.

Language skills targeted: Mathematics and, basic vocabulary

Evaluation:
The programs strengths include animation, colorful graphics, easy to follow directions and basic mathematical concepts. The weaknesses include unfamiliar vocabulary for an ELL that is not mathematically related. I feel that this program would benefit an ELL who is already familiar with their L2 and has had previous experiences (in other subjects) with their L2. It would not be beneficial for a newcomer because of the difficult vocabulary and unfamiliar concepts in the L2. Despite these minor flaws, I would use this program as reinforcement of previous skills taught and also for a “time filler” for those students who complete assignments more quickly.

The method of approach that this program uses to teach language is very minima but has some strong vocabulary lessons. In the geometry lessons, (x), and (÷) there is a lot of vocabulary being reinforced (divided by, multiplying, faces, figures, etc.) which is very useful for an ELL and any student who is struggling with simple mathematical terms.