Math Tablet 1.2

This review evaluates a virtual manipulative that aids in the development of number sense and arithmetic concepts, available for free only in November. The app serves as an educational tool that allows children to explore the relationships between subsets and total sets through interactive engagement.

Through the app, users can:

• Touch the screen to produce tokens, which can be moved manually.
• Remove tokens by moving them to the top of the interface.
• Sort tokens by tapping on a number.
• Toggle visibility of numbers by swiping over them.
• Use the shutters feature to hide one half of the tablet.
• Quickly clear the screen by shaking the tablet.

The core operations of addition and subtraction are fundamentally linked to the concept of partitioning quantities into subsets and reassembling them (part-whole concept). This understanding is critical for laying a strong foundation for future mathematical learning. The app effectively provides a platform for children to engage with and internalize these concepts.

Notably, the app does not present pre-defined tasks. Instead, it encourages exploration and reflection with prompts such as:

1. How can I quickly produce 8 tokens with my fingers?
2. How do I sort the tokens to see the number without counting?
3. If there are 4 tokens on one side and 3 on the other, what is the total?
4. What happens if I move 1 (2, 3, ...) token from one side to the other?
5. What occurs if I remove 1 (2, 3, ...) token from the tablet?
6. How many configurations exist to split 10 tokens between both sides?
7. If there are 3 tokens on one side, how many must I add to reach a total of 7?
8. If there are 10 tokens on display, how many are hidden from view?
9. I place 8 tokens on one side and move 5 to the other. How many remain?

This app has the potential to engage children in fundamental mathematical concepts actively, fostering an environment of discovery and inquiry.