Algebra Balance vs Tiny Human Number Match

Algebra Balance provides teachers and parents with an educational tool for demonstrating and practicing methods for solving for x given an algebraic equation with one variable. Using the Algebra Balance teachers will want to encourage students to build expressions using blocks and balloons. Blocks represent positive values and balloons represent negative values. Once two equal expressions are shown, the student is challenged to analyze the equation and then begin a procedure for simplification in order to find the value of x that will solve the equation. Active learning begins by moving blocks or balloons onto the balance scale. By choosing the appropriate terms the student defines two expressions. Interactively the balance shows the relationship between the two expressions. The goal is for the student to solve for x by manipulating the balance. Terms are added and subtracted from both sides and the results are immediately displayed on the screen. Visualization helps make algebra less abstract. By representing equivalent expressions on the left and right side of the balance students develop an intuitive understanding of algebra.

Children learn counting and number sense best through lots of practice and hands-on experiences. One-to-one correspondence is one of the first and most important concepts in math. Tiny Human Number Match is perfect for children to work on these basic number skills. Four games are included that use a multiple of ways to practice 1:1 correspondence. Children match a number to a set of objects, a set of objects to a number, a number to a number or a picture to a picture. The number pictures include 10 frames, dice, objects, numbers and fingers that all represent the numbers 1-20. When they get an answer right, there is a fun, reinforcing animation. When all corresponding objects are selected correctly, the student is rewarded by a banana bonanza! Tiny Human Number Match keeps track of different students’ statistics once you add and then select their name. You can also select the appropriate numbers or number range to allow for differentiation. Select the results button to view individual statistics. For a different counting challenge, you might also want to try our Tiny Human Number Match app.