Owlet vs Common Core math test, 5.2

Owlet: Cube6 is an app that uses two Owlet CubeTower manipulatives. This app builds on the Cube3 app by enabling students to create six-digit numbers by stacking small cubes in the columns of two CubeTowers. Cube6 has three modes. Each corresponds to a different topic in place value: Thousands, Money, and Decimals. For each topic, there are five different activities. - Explore: Students place cubes in the CubeTowers to create numbers that are shown on the tablet. - Make: Students are prompted to make a target number by placing cubes in the CubeTowers. - Build: Students solve number puzzles. For example, students might be asked to build a number between 200,000 and 300,000 using 15 cubes. - Compare: Students create a number in the CubeTowers and then compare it to a number generated by the app. - Round: Students use the CubeTowers to round a number to a specified place.

The Common Core math tests can be a source of anxiety for students because there is pressure to pass them and it is a very unusual test compared with tests they often take. Unlike tests students often take, the Common Core tests are typically done on a computer and the type of test questions often require multiple steps and a deeper understanding of math. This app has four full-length (30 questions each) math tests that are modeled on actual Common Core test questions that have been published by State Departments of Education. But it does more than just get students used to taking a test on a computer: it aims to fill in skill gaps and teach them how to answer similar questions on the real test. After the student answers a question, s/he is given immediate feedback as to what the correct answer is and is then given access to read a 1 to 4 page detailed, colorful explanation that assumes minimum prior knowledge of the key concepts. Each question is tracked as being correct, incorrect or unanswered by changing the button’s color so the student may ensure s/he completes the test and can review difficult questions again. If the educator wishes, the student’s results can be printed showing her/his name, date, time, the test version, the concept for each question and whether the student answered it correctly, incorrectly or did not answer it. Such a report may be helpful when generating an individualized lesson plan, and to monitor progress if subsequent test versions are used. This is the second set of tests for the 5th grade, which is why the icon shows 5.2 in the calculator display. Some students may find taking just one test reassures them of their skills and they may not need to take additional tests. Other students may have difficulty with one or more questions and can then repeat those questions or entire tests to help fill in skill gaps and build their confidence for the actual State exams. When the student returns to the main menu, all the answers are reset to unanswered. That way, the test may be administered to different students or even to the same student(s) after a prolonged break. If the adult permits, the student may turn on an option to get a quick break in the form of fun photos from nature if a questions explanation is short. This may also encourage the student to check the explanations for all questions just to see if there is a fun photo there, and hopefully read the full explanations too. After each correct answer the student gets lots of smiling emojis and, if the adult permits, at the end of the test a celebration screen with animated balloons and music. The app does not connect to any websites so it can be used off-line. There are no in-app purchases, subscriptions or 3rd party advertisements. The app is fully functional and never expires. The app does not collect or send us any info and when turned off it does not save any data. This is one of many products we've made that we hope will make learning fun.