Descartes' Cove Math Series
© 2005 Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth
Have a sharp middle schooler who could use a fun, challenging math experience? Like Myst, with math, this exploration adventure includes six self running CDs, each with a set of math problems created by the Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth, funded by a grant by the Toyota and AT&T. Each disk starts with a view of deserted island once inhabited by mathematician René Descartes. After signing in, students can freely explore each area of the 3D island where they discover hidden problems, typical of something found on an SAT test. It might be a story problem requiring the typing of an answer, or a 3D geometry challenge where they must calculate the height of the mast of a nearby schooner. The goal is to earn gold coins by solving all the problems, eventually passing the "Final Quest" -- a final review, that leads to the escape from the island. The entire premise is both compelling enough and features enough content to keep student's interest. We also like how you can jump to any section of the island at will... the program never locks you in to any problem. The math problems are hard, but well constructed, and students can consult Descartes' journal, or spend a coin to get a hint. There's an excellent variety of questions, covering all aspects of a typical math curriculum. The problems are NOT EASY -- and just one of the six disks could take several weeks to master. All in all, this is an excellent resource for any middle or high school math teacher.
$150, Win 98, Win XP, Mac OSX
Teaches: math, algebra, geometry, number and operations, reasoning and proof, measurement.