Gettin' Techy with Facts!

Hi Friends! Is your February zooming by like mine? Oh my word - where is 2014 going already?! 

Today I'm here to share something fun I've incorporated in my classroom, with an at home extension! 

My district's adopted Math program lacks basic math fact skills - big time! So, last summer I set out to create a program to use.  

This sequential program takes the students through 30-problem basic math fact tests, one fact family at time.  By the end of the program, they will master their facts! 

 

I keep track of my students' progress with this yummy display! Since we're now in the middle of the year, the kids have filled up those cookie jars quite a bit! 

                               

All materials can be easily organized in a plastic file box. 

                                                

I've included labels that will make finding levels easy for the kids.  

                                           

You can keep track of students' levels with the progress chart.

                            

But, wait! I haven't shared the best part! 

To help kids learn these facts at home, I created an app for the iPhone/iPad. 

When I was creating the paper & pencil program last summer, I kept hearing parents' voices in my head saying, "How can I help my child practice these facts at home?" As teachers we usually suggest games, flashcards and even educational apps we've come across that work well. 

  

So, I had a grand idea to create an app that mirrors the program! 

There are two modes of play: Timed & Practice Play.

If a child is working on passing Level 3 in the classroom, then they can simply practice Level 3 on the app! The exact same math problems are in the classroom version, as the app version! 

Once a child chooses a level to play, there's a quick countdown screen.  

Below is a screenshot of Level 1. It clearly shows the child which level & problem they are on.  The cloud in the corner counts down from 2:30.  In practice play, the screen looks the same, but there's simply no timer! 

If a child can successfully complete 30 correct problems in 2:30 minutes or less, they earn a "cookie" in their jar.  The cookie dances around the screen and jumps into the jar! 

I would LOVE for you to pass along the app to your parents, colleagues and even your own children! If you love it, please leave feedback in the App store! I suppose if you don't love it, you could leave feedback too :) 

If you'd like to snag the Smart Cookie Math program, I've put it on sale for the day! Head over and snag it! {There's also a Smart Cookie Multiplication version if you teach those "big kids!"}

Enjoy the rest of your month! 

Lucky to Be in First