FLYware: Fly Through Math
© 2005 LeapFrog
If you could put a talking math coach inside a really fat pen, you can get an idea on how this innovative FLY cartridge works. The verbal instructions can get in the way of the math, however. Contents of the package includes one ROM cartridge for the FLY pen (not included), a 24 spiral bound tutorial book and a generous consumable ream of two sided dotted grid paper that can only be used once. First, you write any multiplication or long division problem on the paper, and press enter. The idea is that you try out your long division or multiplication problems by carefully writing one numeral per square, while the pen walks you through the problem, step-by-step. There has never been anything like this before. Weaknesses include a bit of a learning process; testers found the instructions to be rigid at first, and grew impatient. For example, if you don't start the problem correctly, you can run out of room on the side of the page and have to start over. The main advantage to using this for math practice is instant feedback loop (by way of a "click" sound), signaling each correct answer. This grows to be reasuring, with the fast, bit-by-bit instant feedback to be very constructive. The two simple drill games (Math Practice and Math Master) are responsive and fun. In them, the pen says a math fact, and you race to find the answer on a times table. If you're looking for a unique, pen-based way to help children understand the steps to long division, this might be a great solution. Otherwise, pass.
$29.99, FLY, smart toy
Teaches: math: division, multiplication, decimals, math facts