I’ve seen surveys claiming that students only enjoy math 30% to 60%, compared to their other subjects. That’s a sad thought when math is your daily grind, but I’m hopeful that the actual number probably lies somewhere in between.
We don’t have to look far to find adults that will say that math isn’t their strong suit either. Have no fear, math tutor apps are available whether you think math is your weakness or you enjoy math, and just want to get ahead with some enrichment activities.
During this time where many students are participating in a variety of hybrid or full-online learning, it is easy to understand that a weakness in math previously could become much more of a weakness without consistent and deliberate practice. Let’s see what math tutor app is available for your math learner.
Math tutor applications, or math tutor apps, that parents have been familiar with involve flash cards and color-coded manipulatives in various shapes. But now there are so many free and easy to use options online. We’ll review a few for you!
The first step is considering what your student needs from their math tutor app
- It is important to know if an interactive application utilized in a small group is sufficient or if one-on-one tutoring would be more beneficial for your learner.
- Identify whether basic skills are the focus or the desire is to supplement skills already gained, and perhaps add some enrichment opportunities.
- Does the app provide timely and valuable feedback and follow up after a lesson or session?
- Is cost a factor? Many free math tutor apps are available, with the possibility of purchasing additional features if needed.
- Will the best math tutor for your child need to address specific IEP and 504 accommodations?
- A referral from another parent, student or teacher may be beneficial as well, however students vary as much as their learning styles. One math tutor app may not work well for one student but make a big difference for the next student.
Photo Math:
This app can be downloaded free of charge. Students snap a picture of the math problem with their phone, or other electronic device. The application solves the problem, often showing basic steps in solving. Mathway is a similar app. These apps are best utilized for ages 11 and up. The verbal explanation is missing from this app, in the event that the student is challenged by the solution and needing a verbal explanation. Copying without understanding the answer is a concern.
desmos:
An interactive website that encourages learning math and enjoying it too! Accessible on computer or phone, the site offers practice on graphing as well as four function, and scientific calculator examples. Desmos offers the ability to create an account to track progress for timely feedback, and is also free. The site is rich with teacher created classroom activities and lessons. This tool includes test practice and a fun geometry tool.
Khan Academy:
A popular site among educators, and students from age 5 and up. The multitude of videos and demonstrations solving math problems for all ages, makes it a handy tool. The website does suggest supervising student use to ensure learning rather than copying of solutions. A great suggestion! Although the site is free and you are welcome to create a free account, they do suggest a donation due to the increase in demand for their resource with many students now engaged in online learning.
Find One-On-One Math Tutor Help at TakeLessons
Online math tutor apps are useful for students who need a little help. Many exist, and this is only a snapshot of available and popular options. A student that needs to build skills or close a gap in learning may benefit more from one-on-one tutoring. TakeLessons.com teachers offer a variety of price ranges for one-on-one math tutor sessions. Qualified teachers can tailor tutoring sessions to the student’s needs, offer feedback and follow up with the student and parents.
A great measure of whether the math tutor app you choose is working, aside from a boost in grades, is identifying that the student is building skills and confidence in their math knowledge. Is their understanding of learned skills evident and explanations clear? Are they understanding and able to explain their mistakes? Is your learner enjoying using the math tutor you have chosen? Kids will often let you know!
Barbara Ashman