MathScore

MathScore was developed by MIT graduates to help raise math scores through adaptive math practice. Their goal was to combine critical thinking and basic computations skills.

STUDENT MENU

Topics: Although MathScore was not created to be a full math curriculum, there are mini-lessons included for each topic. Also included are sample problems and multiple level online worksheets with instant grading. The topics range from addition to algebra 1. A list of sample topics can be found on the right hand side of the home page.

Statistics: The student can view his Activity Summary. He can also see how he is progressing through the topics for his grade level.

Awards: Awards are given as different groups of topics are mastered. There appears to be no purpose to the awards other than they show up on your award page. But even so I found myself pushed to work through the topics required to get each award. Crazy sounding but true.

Assessment: This optional test takes you through the primary skills required for algebra readiness. At the end, it lists the topics the student is proficient in, the topics that need to be studied immediately, and the topics that need to be studied this year. This test does not flow well between topics and you have to click "continue assessment" after every two or three problems.

Student Guide: This guide gives the student information to help him navigate the website better.

Demos: Video demonstrations on how each part of MathScore works.

PARENT MENU

• View Assessments
• Student Activity Summary
• Log in Summary
• Billing
• Topics:Browse, View sample problems, View math tips
• High scores
• Demos
  

WEEKLY ACTIVITY SUMMARY BY EMAIL

Topics covered
Rating for topics
Points earned
Overall accuracy
Number of worksheets completed
Time at computer
Time spent on relevant work
Good worksheet time
Low quality worksheet time

COST

1st student $14.95 per month
2nd student $5.00 per month
Each additional student $3.95 per month

A two-week free trial is also available.

SUMMARY

Originally I was not impressed with this program. I like the overall concept and I like that it moves from the concrete to the abstract. But It has a clunky feel to it that is hard to get past. However, the problems presented really do strain your brain and are worth pushing past the lack of smooth presentation. The worksheets also reinforce mental math techniques that are beneficial in all areas of math. If your child is needing a challenge or just extra practice, MathScore will definitely provide it.

You can read here what other Crew families experienced.

Disclosure:This product was provided to our family for free as members of the 2009-2010 Old Schoolhouse Magazine Homeschool Crew. No further compensation was received. Reviews and opinions expressed in this blog are my own.