Stick and Split vs Math Balance

Stick and Split is a deceptively simple, addictive game. What makes it so special is that while children play, they learn and practice their times tables, often without even realizing it. Research shows that the more you think about something, the more likely you are to remember it. Most times tables games ask children to answer simple questions like "What is 3 x 6?" many, many times. The problem with this approach is that it aims to get children to answer with the minimum of thought, so it's no wonder they have to answer thousands of times before they remember. Many get bored and switch off before the memory sticks. Some get anxious when they don't know the answers, and research also shows that feeling anxious is not a great way to make memories. Stick and Split has been carefully designed to encourage children to think much more about multiplication and division facts. There are no right or wrong answers, so it won't cause anxiety. Instead, children are constantly thinking about what to do next. The more they think, the more they remember. Reasons you'll love Stick and Split: • Incredibly simple gameplay: you'll learn how to play in a minute • But with over 300 levels, you'll find there is so much to it • Covers times tables up to 12 x 12, and division • Encourages children to think about what multiplication and division really mean, rather than blindly "learning their times tables" • Comes with advice for grown-ups supporting a child using the game • Stats show how much each child has played • An overview of all the levels shows exactly what each child has done, and lets them jump to a level that suits them • A solid mathematical basis underpins the game • You won't find a more cost-effective way to keep children thinking about numbers for hours • Up to 4 players on the same device • No ads and no in-app purchases; links to the App Store sit behind a grown-ups' check Made by NumberClub, whose math games are used in hundreds of schools.

The Math Balance is a concrete way to explore equations. Begin by placing two weights on the arm so that is balanced, for example the 10-pegs. Then 10 balances 10 which is written as 10 = 10. Using three weights, place a weight on the left 10-peg and use two weights on the right side to balance it, for example 1 and 9. Then 10 balances 1 and 9 and is written as 10 = 1 + 9. The Explore level allows for unlimited exploration of the balance. Up to 10 weights may be placed on each peg. There are four structured categories: Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication, and Division. Each of these topics has a basic level and an advanced level with equations to solve.