Algebra Touch

Cost: $1.99

Pros:  There are a variety of positives for this app. First of all it makes an abstract topic, like algebra, interactive. It is more of a hands-on approach. Furthermore, it also provides step-by-step instructions on how to complete the different topics within algebra. The example the app uses is cancelling out numbers which you can do with the swipe of a finger or stylus. This is great for students who need to see the manipulations of equations. On top of that, the Algebra Touch also explains why rules are rules. This is great for the students whose question is, "When will I ever use this?"Furthermore, students can get immediate feedback on their solutions to problems. Good app for the beginning algebra learner.  

Cons:  There are a few negatives to Algebra Touch as well. For one, it only covers the basics of algebra. It only covers only to substitution. This is great for a teacher at the beginning of the year, but it does not last. Then the teacher either has to buy a new app or go with no app at all. In hard economic times for schools this is just not feasible. Another negative is that it does cost money. After reading several reviews on Algebra Touch it gets pretty high ratings, but it costs money. It could be a little more affordable because schools have to put this app on every single iPad that is required to use the app. This can get pricey. Hopefully, the price of Algebra Touch will decrease.     

How to use in education: There are several different ways that Algebra Touch could be used in the classroom. New to this app is a place where a student can make their own problems. This is great for doing algebra homework. If a student does not remember a concept, he or she can just go back to the lesson on the app. This is also a great app for the struggling student who may need that extra help other than the textbook. The teacher could even not use the textbook for the beginning of the year if he or she uses Algebra Touch. Another feature is that the text can be read. This is great for students who have trouble reading math equation or for student who have dysgraphia. Algebra touch is an app that can be used throughout many years.