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Thursday, May 28, 2020

App Reviews - Amy Franklin


ALCOS Grades 9-12:  Algebra II with Statistics
Standard 16:  Identify the effect on the graph of replacing 𝑓(𝑥) by 𝑓(𝑥) + 𝑘, 𝑘 · 𝑓(𝑥), 𝑓(𝑘 · 𝑥), and 𝑓(𝑥 + 𝑘) for specific values of k (both positive and negative); find the value of k given the graphs. Experiment with cases and illustrate an explanation of the effects on the graph using technology. Extend to polynomial, trigonometric (sine and cosine), logarithmic, reciprocal, radical, and general piecewise functions.

Mathway
Mathway solves a variety of math problems in the areas of algebra, trigonometry, calculus, statistics, etc. Mathway is free. However, in-app purchases include detailed solutions and live tutoring. Subscriptions range from $19.99 monthly for steps (detailed solutions) to $149.99 annually for steps and live tutoring. The intended age group is middle school through college. Mathway is compatible with iOS 9.0 or later, as well as iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. Common Sense is a nonprofit organization that provides educators and parents with reliable information and education regarding technology for K-12 kids. Their website offers credible, up to date, information regarding their mission, how they rate and review, as well as information about their Board of Directors, Board of Advisors, Partners, etc.

Wolfram Alpha
Wolfram Alpha solves a variety of math and science problems. This app also provides lessons on a range of topics, including history, art, linguistics, etc. Wolfram Alpha costs $2.99 with in-app purchase options ranging from $0.99 to $65.99. The intended age group is middle school through college. Wolfram Alpha is compatible with iOS 12.0 or later, as well as iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. Common Sense is a nonprofit organization that provides educators and parents with reliable information and education regarding technology for K-12 kids. Their website offers credible, up to date, information regarding their mission, how they rate and review, as well as information about their Board of Directors, Board of Advisors, Partners, etc.

Photomath
Photomath solves a variety of math problems by simply taking a picture of the problem. Photomath covers math topics such as basic math, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and calculus. This app is free. However, in-app purchase options range from $2.99 to $59.99. The intended age group is elementary school through college. Photomath is compatible with iOS 11.0 or later, as well as iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. Common Sense is a nonprofit organization that provides educators and parents with reliable information and education regarding technology for K-12 kids. Their website offers credible, up to date, information regarding their mission, how they rate and review, as well as information about their Board of Directors, Board of Advisors, Partners, etc.

Of the three apps selected for review, I like Mathway the best. For this standard, the Mathway graphing feature would allow students to explore different functions of the same family on the same coordinate plane. This feature would allow students to explore how the value of k affects the graph of 𝑓(𝑥). Also, when graphing multiple functions on the same coordinate plane, the graphs are displayed in different colors, making them easily distinguishable.

2 comments:

  1. Amy, it's intriguing to see Mathway as an educational app to me because I've always looked at it as a way my students cheat on assignments. I typically only see it when kids are working independently and they don't know how to do the work, so they go and type the problem in to Mathway to get the answer. I'll have to look at it more in depth to see how I can use it as an educational tool as opposed to thinking of it as a problem. I don't think it would have ever occurred to me that it could be used for the power of good, so thank you for the idea!

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    Replies
    1. Hi, Spencer. I completely understand. 99% of the time, this app is my nemesis!

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