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Coolmath
Pros: Quick-reference math facts, a glossary of terms, and explanations with examples.
Cons: Old-school interface, and simple games on ad-filled sister site are only loosely tied to math.
Bottom Line: Coolmath has some decent references and short explanations but is dated and uninspiring.
The Coolmath site is a collection of explanation cards that could be used in class to introduce or describe certain topics. It might be useful for students needing a refresher in various math concepts as a friendlier alternative to a textbook. There are some interactive elements that show concepts, but many of these require Flash, and some don't seem to work.
The site is also linked to a math games site (Coolmath Games) where some of the games could be used to teach strategy or practice concepts. However, many of the games aren't really math-focused -- they're described as "brain-training" -- and may be more useful as a reward or break for students.
Coolmath is part of a collection of websites that includes Coolmath Games and Coolmath4Kids. The main site -- Coolmath -- covers concepts for grades 6–12 including pre-algebra, algebra, and pre-calculus. Coolmath4Kids offers content for students from grades K–5, and the games there come from Arcademics. And Coolmath Games has a variety of "brain-training" games. The Coolmath4Teachers and Coolmath4Parents sites seem to be pages with links to the other sites.
The main site has lessons that cover a variety of concepts with explanations and creative ways to remember things. There's also a glossary and a "survival guide," which is a (long) pep talk in segments for students who dislike or struggle with math.
In terms of positives, the range of topics on Coolmath and Coolmath4Kids is impressive, and the reference tools could be useful. The lessons might also be helpful for kids who avoid using the textbook for explanations but could use an accessible reminder here and there.
However, the main Coolmath site uses a very dated interface: a black screen with white and neon text, which could be difficult for some students to read. The content cards and tools and references sections are quite useful but lack any real interactivity, and most of the interactive elements no longer function properly. Students don't really get a chance to develop their own methods of understanding the materials and are required to follow the steps provided in the materials presented. The games are part of a separate website that requires a subscription to remove the numerous ads. Many of the games also require the students to install and use Flash within their browser. Most importantly, the games often don't reinforce math concepts, and if they do, it's rudimentary practice at best. So, if you're looking to offer students some fun, free math games, you might want to look to more current, learning-focused options.
Learning Rating
Overall Rating
Community Rating
This is a wonderful website which keeps kids engaged and provides lots of kid-friendly, fun games
Although it has suffered slightly as a result of adobe flash player shutting down, there are still lots of great games that can help students, especially elementary and middle-schoolers, to practice applications of math and critical thinking. Frankly, I would rather student play these games than just about any other video game. The only slight issue is the malware in the ads, but I use this as a learning tool to teach students to avoid getting scammed.
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