App Reviews- Merrill Dotson

I have chosen an 8th grade math standard that carries over to all math courses beyond middle school. If students can master this standard they are set up for success!

8-EE7 (Mathematics)  Solve linear equations in one variable.

a. Give examples of linear equations in one variable with one solution, infinitely many solutions, or no solutions. Show which of these possibilities is the case by successively transforming the given equation into simpler forms until an equivalent equation of the form x = a, a = a, or a = b results (where a and b are different numbers). [8-EE7a]

b. Solve linear equations with rational number coefficients, including equations whose solutions require expanding expressions, using the distributive property and collecting like terms. [8-EE7b]

Khan Academy

http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/edtechresearcher/2012/06/dont_use_khan_academy_without_watching_mmt2k_first.html

I realize this app/website is referenced all the time, but there is a reason!  Students will often leave the classroom and still need assistance with math work, and many times parents are unable to assist. Khan Academy is easily accessible and simple to understand. The article above does mention the one dimensional aspect of the site, but the benefits far outweigh the downfalls. Students are guided through videos, practice questions, and quizzes that direct students through a standard. Other subjects are included in the program, but math is its core. The app is free and available on IOS/Android devices. Education Weekly is a well establish resource in the education world. “EPE's mission is to raise awareness and understanding of critical issues facing American schools.” (Reich, 2012)

IXL

https://www.commonsense.org/education/app/ixl-math-and-english

This app provides students with extra practice problems and real time adaptive assessments in Math and Language Arts. As students give incorrect answers, explanations are given in great detail.   The downfall to this app would be the the limitation in the free version. Students can only complete a limited number of questions per day without paying the $19/99/month charge, which includes 2 students. It offers assistance with Math and Language Arts from Pre-K to Calculus and is available in for the IOS and Android platform. I have used Common Sense reviews for many years when researching new tools for my classroom. They have been consistent and reliable. 

The Fun Way to Learn Algebra

https://www.teacherswithapps.com/hands-on-equations-1-the-fun-way-to-learn-algebra/

This app is every hands on learner's dream for Algebra! Students are able to manipulate virtual tools to balance and equation. The lite version is free while the more advanced levels will cost $2.99. This app is directly aimed at students learning to solve equations and is available in the IOS/Android platform. Teachers with Apps works with teachers to find the best apps to guide our students. They are testing and well reviewed!

For my recommendation, I had to think about my intentions. The most well rounded app is not the one I would choose to teach this standard, and cost wasn't a consideration in my decision. (Isn't that the dream?) I would choose The Fun Way to Learn Algebra if my sole intention was to teach students how to solve equations. The visual and manipulative aspect is unbeatable for students.