Hands vs Critical Thinking Activities

"Great intro to Algebra!" This Hands-On Equations Level 3 app is intended for students who have already completed Level 1 and 2 of Hands-On Equations and who would like the challenge of more sophisticated equations involving negative numbers. In Level 3, the student solves equations such as 4x – (-4) = -8 and 3(-x) + 2 = -10 + x, which contain negative constants. The green numbered cube, which represents the opposite of the red numbered cube, is introduced at this level. Since the red and green number cubes are opposite of each other, when they are together on the same side of the balance, their value is zero and may therefore be removed without affecting the balance. A video introduction is provided for each lesson. (See the sample YouTube video at http://youtu.be/VFYQ47EAqZw.) Each video introduction is followed by two examples and ten exercises. It is essential for the student to view the lesson video prior to attempting the examples and exercises for that lesson. Hands-On Equations is the ideal introduction to algebra for elementary and middle school students. Not only will students have fun and be fascinated with the program, their sense of self-esteem will be dramatically enhanced as they experience success with sophisticated algebraic equations. High school students struggling with algebra will likely experience success and understanding for the first time as they work with this app. More information on Hands-On Equations can be found at www.borenson.com and on YouTube.

Critical Thinking Activities is a collection of challenges designed to help build critical thinking skills. The app presents 10 different activities. In each activity the problems are randomly generated so the app provides hours of engaging learning opportunities.. The activities include the following: 1. Hundreds Chart Patterns 2. What's the Rule? 3. Find a Match 4. Cube Patterns 5. Dot Designs 6. Isometric Designs 7. Design Patterns 8. Reflections 9. Sum Patterns 10. Number Line The app uses speech and sound effects to present the activities and to make the learning experience more exciting. As students work on the problem solving activities, a score is kept that tracks progress. By tapping the scoreboard icon teachers or parents can see a record of the students successes.