Title: Math Missions: The Race to Spectacle City
Arcade K-2
Overall Rating: B+
Source: http://www.scholastic.com/kids/downloads2go/productDetail.asp?productid=23&speed=broad
Playing Time: 15-30 minutes depending on number of
activities
Software Release Date: 1998
Cost: $13.95 at Amazon
.com
Operating System: PC
or Mac
Number of Players: 1
Special Equipment/Facilities Needed:speakers
Subject Area: Mathematics for grades K-2
Objectives: To teach math skills like sorting, measuring,
weighing, and addition and subtraction.
Brief Description: Player clicks on storefronts until
activities and puzzled store clerks are found. Activities range from sorting animals
by their physical characteristics (spots, legs, colors), to measuring the length
of fruits, to weighing combinations of seafood.
Entry Capabilities Required: basic math concepts,
use of a computer, mouse, and keyboard. Non-readers should have adult guidance.
Rating: (1-5)
Relevance to objectives: 5- It satisfied its objectives
fully teaching a range of key math concepts. Concepts include counting, number
association, addition and subtraction, and time and measurement.
Provides practice of relevant skills: 5- I found
the skills fun and relevant for early learners.
Likely to arouse/maintain interest: 4-The graphics
are fun and colorful which is likely to interest kids and keep them interested.
Likely to be comprehended clearly: 3- Younger students
could lose interest early without the help of a reader to assist them.
Technical quality (durable, attractive): 4- Colors
are bright and graphics are fun. It is definitely attractive to this age group.
Game: Winning dependent on player actions (rather than
chance):5- Student will not be able to continue
if they cannot answer the math problems.
Simulation: Validity of game model (realistic, accurate
depiction): Problems were realistic and related
to real problems in life, and problems they will have to do in the classroom
as well.
Evidence of effectiveness (e.g. field-test results):
3- I didn't find any evidence, but from my experience I found it to be effective.
It makes students think and learn while having fun.
Clear directions for play:5- Directions were easy
to follow for all ages, but again nonreaders may need help.
Effectiveness of debriefing:
1-There is no debriefing.
Strong Points: This
game focused on real life situations that students could use for example in a
store, or in other situations in real life. I liked that this game taught a wide
variety of different math concepts for this age level, it really makes it fun
to learn concepts that could otherwise be difficult to learn.
Weak Points: The only
thing that I would consider a weak point is the fact that this could be played
by non-readers yet they will need assistance. The other thing is the fact there
was not any debriefing, this sort of leaves the students hanging.
Reviewer: Angela carney
Position: Grad Student
Date Reviewed: 6-4-04
Computer System Reviewed on: Windows XP