Tux Math

Subject Area: Math, Numeracy

Recommended Grade Levels: 1-8

 

Tux, of Math Command (TuxMath, for short) is an arcade-style activity for learning mathematics. Th game pay is based loosely on that of the arcade game Missile command, but with comets falling on cities rather than missles. Like Missle Command, players attempt to protect their cities by solving math poblems that label each comet which causes a laser to destroy it. It also includes a multiplayer mode and Factor-fraction activiy called Factoroids.

• Multiple user support (useful for schools)
• On-screen tutorials
• High score table
• Training mode - over 50 bundled lessons ranging from simple number typing up through all four basic arithmetic operations with negative numbers and "missing number" questions (e.g. "3 x ? = 12").
• Multiplayer mode
• Missions
• Factoroids: clone of classic Atari video game "Asteroids", modified to be an activity to train factorization

Ontario Elementary Secondary Curriculum Expectations for Mathematics (2005)

Number Sense and Numeration. Number sense refers to a general understanding of number and operations as well as the ability to apply this understanding in flexible ways to make mathematical judgements and to develop useful strategies for solving problems. In this strand, students develop their understanding of number by learning about different ways of representing numbers and about the relationships among numbers. They learn how to count in various ways, developing a sense of magnitude. They also develop a solid understanding of the four basic operations and learn to compute fluently, using a variety of tools and strategies. A well-developed understanding of number includes a grasp of more-and-less relationships, part-whole relationships, the role of special numbers such as five and ten, connections between numbers and real quantities and measures in the environment, and much more.

For more curriculum information please go to: http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/curriculum/elementary/math18curr.pdf

How can TuxMath help?

TuxMath is a great activity to teach mathematical operations in a fun, effective way. Not only does it provide a gaming format that kids are certain to enjoy, it allows them to also practice and challenge themselves to understand and explore higher levels of operations. To see an example of how TuxMath can be used in the classroom, please go to:

http://meeting.knet.ca/mp19/mod/book/view.php?id=2521&chapterid=878