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Herbert's Math Time by Beret Applications
Herbert's Math Time is simply a FANTASTIC program! Beret Applications has created a game that is easy to play, educational, and just plain fun. Basically, it's a math study aid that consists of three parts; a practice session that is a straightforward math problem, Tic-Tac-Math and Whack a Bug.
I'm going to track down one of my nieces or nephews and see what they think about it. Rest assured, I'll post their opinions here!
My only question about Herbert's Math Time is that I don't see a lot of kids walking around with Palm's. I'm going to assume that parent's allow their children to use their Palm under supervision while traveling or whatnot, and hopefully, they will sit down and play some of these games with their child.
Herbert's Math Time is a bargain at $10 and is available at PalmGear.
What I like:
Ability to change difficulty levels
Two player Tic Tac Math
Educational AND Fun
What I don't like:
Nothing! I love this game!
5 out of 5 Rating
Herbert's Math Time is simply a FANTASTIC program! Beret Applications has created a game that is easy to play, educational, and just plain fun. Basically, it's a math study aid that consists of three parts; a practice session that is a straightforward math problem, Tic-Tac-Math and Whack a Bug.
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When you run the program, you are greeted by a dancing Caterpillar and several options. The 'About' screen gives copyright and shareware information and lists Beret's web site. 'Help' is informative and complete. You can go to the Setup screen(see below) and change the types of math problems and the difficulty level and then there's the games. Practice, Whack a Bug and Tic Tac Math are where the fun really is. Nothing about this program is complicated (other than the math!) and that's just the way Palm apps are supposed to be. It is a great way to build math skills and have fun at the same time. |
| The setup screen is where you set the difficulty of the math problems and the types of math problems. Addition, subtraction, multiplication and division are all available. You can set the difficulty by selection the value of the numbers to be used. There is even an option to work with multiples of numbers in the 'add by' box. To make things interesting, you can set time limits in Tic Tac Math. One thing I'd like to see added here is the ability to mix up the types of problems so that you could work on addition AND subtraction or some type of combination, but otherwise, there are numerous options to keep you(or your youngster) busy. |  |
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The practice screen allows you to do basic math problems without the games. There is no time limit, so it's a good way to get started. Tapping any of the boxes pulls up and number pad where you can select the number to put in the appropriate box. Not all boxes need to be used, depending on the math problem, some boxes just might be placeholders. The uppermost box is there to carry over, just like we did with pen and paper long ago. The program will even allow you to 'borrow' by using this box. |
| Whack a Bug is definitely the funniest game of the bunch! A math problem is at the top of the screen. Eight holes are spread out in two rows. Bugs pop up from the holes with answer underneath them. The object is simple, whack the bug with the correct answer below it, but you've got to be quick! Each time you whack the correct bug, and math problem changes and you have to solve the next problem. The bugs don't stop, they just keep coming. It is fast moving, fun and a great way to build math skills. As an adult that is at least halfway decent in math, I found it to be a lot of fun. |  |
I'm going to track down one of my nieces or nephews and see what they think about it. Rest assured, I'll post their opinions here!
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Tic Tac Math is a two player game and it even has infrared support. You tap the square of your choice and a math problem pops up that you must solve. If you answer correctly, you get the square! You'll lose a turn if you answer incorrectly. I'd like to be able to play against the computer, and for solo play, you end up playing both sides, which really doesn't make much sense, but it is a good excuse to sit with your child and help them with their math (while keeping an eye on your Palm). |
My only question about Herbert's Math Time is that I don't see a lot of kids walking around with Palm's. I'm going to assume that parent's allow their children to use their Palm under supervision while traveling or whatnot, and hopefully, they will sit down and play some of these games with their child.
Herbert's Math Time is a bargain at $10 and is available at PalmGear.
What I like:
Ability to change difficulty levels
Two player Tic Tac Math
Educational AND Fun
What I don't like:
Nothing! I love this game!
5 out of 5 Rating