Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Take the Algebra Fitness Challenge with Fit4Algebra


Logan, Adam, and Juliann are new to algebra this year.  Juliann generally does well in math, but Logan and Adam seem to struggle.  I worry with how they will do with this new area of mathematical learning.  And, to be honest, I'm not so sure I'm well-equipped to help them.  It's been a long time since I've had to use algebra beyond the basics. 

According to Sylvan, algebra is the foundation for higher-level mathematics and science courses in high school, which in turn can open doors for college and lead to better careers and lifetime earning potential.  I can't argue with that.  Sylvan Learning, in partnership with Let's Go Learn, is offering a free 21-question Algebra Readiness Check-up to help you determine if your child is ready for the rigors of Algebra.  To see what Logan and Adam's strengths and weaknesses were, I had each of them take the Fit4Algebra screener.

I first registered and created an account for myself and both boys.  Logan and Adam then separately took the screener.  Questions were asked and the boys had to choose which multiple choice answer they thought was correct.  They were allowed to use a piece of scratch paper and pen.  After their screeners, I logged back onto the account to get the results. 

Logan's "overall fitness level" showed he had moderate strength in algebra.  He received a moderate score in comparing and converting, decimal operations, and Integers.  The results showed that he could use more practice in the areas of coordinate graphing, fractions, geometry, and ratios and proportions.  Adam's scores were very similar.  The results let me know that they are more ready for Algebra than I thought they were, and they also let me know what areas needed to be worked on.

What's great about the Algebra Readiness Check-Up is that I get more than results.  I also receive access to student and parent resources for games, tips, and consultations.  Also, for each area of Algebra, I can click on a link to watch videos and take practice tests.  For instance, both boys could use help with Integers.  By clicking the links, I'm directed to videos that explain Integers in detail.  The videos and practice questions are helpful to me too, as a parent, to refresh myself on the areas of Algebra I've forgotten about.  In turn, I can help my children learn.

I highly recommend the Fit4Algebra screener.  This free questionnaire has been a very helpful tool for me and my boys.

I wrote this review while participating in a campaign by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of Sylvan Learning and received a promotional item to thank me for taking the time to participate.  The opinions within this post are of my own.  Please do your own research before purchasing products or using services.  Your opinions and results may differ.

1 comments:

Courtney said...

this sounds great for kids to learn with.. algebra is soo hard.. i never could get it down too well