Benefits
Algebra Champ is a free, one-player game that allows students to practice solving one-step, two-step and multi-step one-variable equations. Students may self-select their level of difficulty and personalize the learning experience by choosing from a variety of avatars and creating their own fighter name. This would appeal to reluctant learners who otherwise might be disengaged in textbook-based learning environments. In addition, as this is a timed game, it would allow students to improve their speed in solving equations.
Constraints
Algebra Champ has several limitations that prevent it from being an effective tool in the regular classroom setting. First, it has no instructional context to guide students towards solving equations--it is only a game. As a result, this will frustrate learners who are struggling with the concepts associated with this app. Second, the game provides no feedback when students answer incorrectly. The wrong answer flashes off the screen and students are left to figure out why they were mistaken. Third, this is a multiple-choice/process of elimination game, which will lead to random guessing by disengaged students.
Ideas for use
This app would be appropriate as a remediation tool in an individual or small group setting that allows the teacher or tutor to monitor student performance. Additionally, this app could be used as an enrichment activity while the teacher is reinforcing learning concepts with students who did not achieve mastery. This app would align to CCSS.Math.Content.8.EE.C.7b "Solve linear equations with rational number coefficients, including equations whose solutions require expanding expressions using the distributive property and collecting like terms."
Algebra Champ is a free, one-player game that allows students to practice solving one-step, two-step and multi-step one-variable equations. Students may self-select their level of difficulty and personalize the learning experience by choosing from a variety of avatars and creating their own fighter name. This would appeal to reluctant learners who otherwise might be disengaged in textbook-based learning environments. In addition, as this is a timed game, it would allow students to improve their speed in solving equations.
Constraints
Algebra Champ has several limitations that prevent it from being an effective tool in the regular classroom setting. First, it has no instructional context to guide students towards solving equations--it is only a game. As a result, this will frustrate learners who are struggling with the concepts associated with this app. Second, the game provides no feedback when students answer incorrectly. The wrong answer flashes off the screen and students are left to figure out why they were mistaken. Third, this is a multiple-choice/process of elimination game, which will lead to random guessing by disengaged students.
Ideas for use
This app would be appropriate as a remediation tool in an individual or small group setting that allows the teacher or tutor to monitor student performance. Additionally, this app could be used as an enrichment activity while the teacher is reinforcing learning concepts with students who did not achieve mastery. This app would align to CCSS.Math.Content.8.EE.C.7b "Solve linear equations with rational number coefficients, including equations whose solutions require expanding expressions using the distributive property and collecting like terms."
How to Use
Step 1: Pick Your Avatar!
Students access the app through their mobile device and select an avatar for the game.
Step 1: Pick Your Avatar!
Students access the app through their mobile device and select an avatar for the game.
Step 2: Level of Difficulty
Students select a level of difficulty, ranging from 1 (Easy) to 4 (Difficult). They see a practice problem to help them determine if they are on appropriate level in which to practice.
Students select a level of difficulty, ranging from 1 (Easy) to 4 (Difficult). They see a practice problem to help them determine if they are on appropriate level in which to practice.
Step 3: Begin the game
Students work to complete five problems. They select an answer from one of three choices. If they miss the wrong answer is eliminated as a choice and students receive a second chance to find the correct answer. A student must select the correct answer before they are allowed to move to the next problem.
Students work to complete five problems. They select an answer from one of three choices. If they miss the wrong answer is eliminated as a choice and students receive a second chance to find the correct answer. A student must select the correct answer before they are allowed to move to the next problem.
Step 4: Final Statistics
Once a student has complete five problems, the game ends and their final statistics are calculated. Final statistics include the percentage of questions answered correctly on the first try as well as the amount of time it took to complete the game.
Once a student has complete five problems, the game ends and their final statistics are calculated. Final statistics include the percentage of questions answered correctly on the first try as well as the amount of time it took to complete the game.