MathTappers vs MathBoard Addition

MathTappers: Fraction Estimation is designed to help learners to build their intuitive understanding of fractions by helping them to relate fractions (both symbols and pictures) to the nearest half (e.g., 0, 1/2 1, 1 1/2, 2, etc.) and then to extend their understanding by challenging them to use fraction estimates in addition and subtraction problems. Learners should be able to master the challenges in this app before moving on to formal operations with fractions. We recommend that this app be used in conjunction with classroom or tutoring activities to support consolidation, mastery and fluency through a series of manageable challenges. The purpose of this app is to support learners as they are developing their understanding of fractions, fraction symbols and fraction operations by emphasizing sense-making through estimation and the use of visual models. Evidence suggests that if learners are taught formulas and procedures before they develop understanding, then they may not be motivated to spend the effort needed to make sense of what they are doing. We want to support sense-making before procedural mastery. This app is not intended to be mastered in one shot – rather levels should be assigned judiciously to support classroom learning activities. After introducing each fraction idea (fraction estimation, and estimation of sums and differences) in a classroom presentation, explanation or discussion this app may be used in small group and individual activities to support exploration, sense-making, consolidation and remediation. Design: Tim Pelton & Leslee Francis Pelton Programming: Mike Anderson, Joshua E. Smith & Garrett Reimer The designers of the MathTappers apps are math educators and researchers seeking to create simple games that will help learners to make sense of mathematics one concept at a time. We have designed MathTappers apps to support students in learning mathematics by providing relevant visual models, focused content linked games and helpful suggestions for parents and educators. Please check out all of our MathTappers apps (links found at MathTappers.com): MathTappers: MultiMatch--a matching app that challenges learners to match sets of cards placed on the table. This is our newest MathTappers app. Although it comes with a deck and you can download others from our website, it was really designed to encourage teachers and students make and share their own matching game decks to capture their understanding and challenge others. Please go to mathtappers.com and check out our instructions on the right to find out how to make your own decks MathTappers: Clock Master--learn to tell time MathTappers: Estimate Fractions--make sense of fraction sums and differences MathTappers: Find Sums--learn basic facts for addition and subtraction MathTappers: Multiples--learn basic facts for multiplication and division MathTappers: Equivalents--equivalent fractions, decimals and percents MathTappers: Numberline--find relative positions of numbers on a numberline, MathTappers: Carbon Choices--help students explore their carbon footprint.

The perfect starting point for mastering addition—now with iCloud Sync, Apple Pencil, speech input, and support for iPadOS 26’s new windowing system. MathBoard® Addition is the FREE “addition only” version of the award-winning MathBoard app, designed to help students of all ages learn to solve math problems—not just memorize answers. This highly configurable app adapts to each student’s skill level, from early learners beginning with single-digit addition to more advanced students tackling algebra-style equations. Whether at home or in the classroom, MathBoard Addition provides a supportive, hands-on learning environment that promotes true comprehension. Students can solve problems using a built-in scratchboard, get help through the step-by-step Problem Solver, and engage with learning activities like Find the Sign, Equality/Inequality, and Match Math (a memory game). Best of all, the app grows with your learner—difficulty settings, question styles, and number ranges are all customizable. Key Features • Configurable number ranges and digit formats (e.g., two-digit over one-digit) • Smart “wrong answer” generation to reduce guessing • Algebra-style equation support (e.g., 6 + x = 12) • Multiple answer formats: multiple choice and fill-in-the-blank • Built-in Problem Solver teaches step-by-step solutions • Built-in scratchboard for working out problems • Quick reference tables for counting and addition • Timed activities with countdown or stopwatch options • Save and share equation settings or student results • Support for multiple student profiles Optimized for the Latest Apple Tech • iCloud Syncing across devices • Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard support • Speech Input and Text to Speech • iPadOS 26 windowing for multitasking Whether you’re teaching in the classroom or practicing at the kitchen table, MathBoard Addition offers a focused and engaging way to build math confidence—one equation at a time.