Xtra Math
XtraMath was founded in 2007 by David Jeschke, a former Microsoft programmer passionate about utilizing technology in education. Noticing a gap in foundational math skills among elementary students he tutored, Jeschke developed a program to help them achieve math fact fluency. The program quickly gained popularity through word-of-mouth and officially became a nonprofit in 2009. Since its inception, XtraMath has grown to become a widely utilized tool in enhancing students' computational memory and confidence in mathematics (XtraMath) (Public Invention).
Differentiation: What Makes It Special
XtraMath stands out in its focused approach to improving students' speed and accuracy in basic math operations like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Its core mission is to foster math achievement by providing effective and adaptive learning experiences that are accessible and rewarding for all learners, regardless of their background (GuideStar).
How to Get Started
Getting started with XtraMath is straightforward. Parents can sign their children up through the XtraMath website, where they can create a free account. The program then guides the user through initial setup and assessment phases to tailor the difficulty level to the student's current skills (XtraMath).
How It Works
XtraMath is designed for daily practice, with each session taking approximately 10 minutes. It is predominantly an independent program, allowing students to practice without direct parental supervision. However, parents are encouraged to monitor progress and provide support as needed. The program uses a mixture of quizzes and practice activities to reinforce math facts until they become second nature (Public Invention).
Educational Subjects Included
Addition
Subtraction
Multiplication
Division
What’s Good About It
Users appreciate XtraMath for its simplicity and effectiveness in improving math fact fluency. The program's design is straightforward, making it easy for children to navigate and engage with daily practices that build confidence and mastery over time (GuideStar).
What Could Be Improved
While highly praised for its functional design, some users feel that the interface could be more visually engaging for children to maintain interest over longer periods. Additionally, there could be a broader variety of activities to cater to different learning preferences and to keep the practice sessions more dynamic (GuideStar).
Advice from Parents on How to Get the Most Out of It
Parents suggest establishing a regular daily routine for using XtraMath to build habit and consistency, which is crucial for effective learning. They also recommend combining the program with other math activities and real-world practice to enhance overall math skills and application (GuideStar).
Who It’s an Ideal Fit For
XtraMath is ideal for students who need to build or reinforce basic math skills. It is particularly beneficial for those who may require more practice outside of traditional classroom settings or who struggle with math fact recall. Its structured, repetitive approach is well-suited for learners who thrive on consistent practice and clear objectives (XtraMath).
Who It’s Probably Not a Fit For
Students who require a more interactive or visually stimulating learning environment may find XtraMath less engaging. It might not suit those who need advanced math topics or prefer a less structured learning approach (GuideStar).
Grades
Suitable for students in grades K-6.
Cost
XtraMath offers its services free of charge, but there is an option to go premium for additional features.
Ways to Get It
XtraMath is available directly from their website, ensuring easy access and setup for anyone interested in using the program (XtraMath).
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