The educational gaming platforms like XtraMath have changed the dynamics of teaching and learning. It is no longer a stagnant process, once deemed a boring task. Such programs have made learning fun and interesting. In this article, I shall be dealing with this topic in detail, if you are interested to know more about it, stay connected to know.
XtraMath has taken the learning altogether to a new level. All these programs have gamified the process. In addition, it has led to a considerable increase in the number of existing programs thereby ensuring the availability of viable alternatives, which has added to the ease of both teachers and students.
What are the features of XtraMath? What are its drawbacks? These are some of the questions I shall be answering in this article, stay connected.
What is XtraMath?
XtraMath is an online program that is primarily meant for students to help them in developing fluency in math facts. It especially focuses on the basic fundamentals of maths like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. The target audience is the students in elementary grades (typically K-6).
XtraMath is a paid math fact fluency program that is quite helpful for the kids helping them to increase their basic math facts recall and automaticity. It provides practice, progress monitoring, and informal assessment of students of where students are in their map facts and can expose the gaps.
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Availability
As far as the availability of the XtraMath is concerned, you can access it through a web browser or download the app as well.
1. Platforms
Ramnath is available through a web browser or via apps for iOS and Android users. You can use any modern web browser to access it. You can download the app from the Google Play store or App Store.
2. Subscription
While some schools or districts might provide free access, XtraMath typically requires a paid subscription for individual users.
Features of XtraMath
A platform is known for the kind of features it offers to its users. They are features that distinguish a platform from others. This makes a program unique from the rest of the programs available. Here are some of the features of XtraMath mentioned.
1. Improved Math Fluency
Regular practice on XtraMath can significantly improve a student’s speed and accuracy in recalling math facts. This frees up mental space for tackling more challenging math concepts.
2. Personalized Learning
Adaptive learning tailors the practice problems to the needs and requirements of each student. It helps the students to focus on the areas where they struggle and revisit mastered facts less frequently.
3. Short & Daily Sessions
XtraMath is designed for short daily practice sessions which are typically of around 10 minutes. This can easily fit into a student’s daily routine without overwhelming them. In addition to this, it does not bore the students to practice the same thing over and over for an extended period of time.
4. Progress Tracking
Both students and parents can monitor the progress through reports that show how well the student knows their math facts and how they are progressing toward mastery. You can keep track of the activities carried out by the students and identify the areas of improvement as well.
5. Mastery-Based Learning
XtraMath supports mastery-based learning by encouraging the students to achieve mastery of each fact before moving on. This builds confidence and solid understanding. The more you practice the more you will gain perfection, which will lead to your mastery over the subject.
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Drawbacks of XtraMath
There are certain drawbacks that XtraMath possesses and you can not ignore these downsides while considering an online program. Here are some of the drawbacks mentioned.
1. Focus on Memorization
XtraMath emphasizes drill and practice to solidify memorization of math facts. It does not necessarily teach students how to solve problems or understand the underlying mathematical concepts.
2. Limited Engagement
The program can be repetitive and lacks the variety or game-like elements that some students find engaging. This can lead to boredom and decreased motivation. Doing the same act again and again for a longer time can be boring. Everyone aspires to do something new to do away with the boredom.
3. Pressure and Anxiety
The time practice aspect might create pressure and anxiety for some students, especially those who struggle with math fluency. Too much practice for an extended period of time can lead to pressure and anxiety.
4. Cost
Individual subscriptions can add up, especially if you have multiple children using the program. Everyone can not be in a position to afford subscription fee. So this is one of the biggest drawbacks as far as XtraMath is concerned.
My Take on XtraMath
XtraMath is a valuable tool for building math fact fluency. It is an effective tool to improve the speed and accuracy of math facts, besides the feature of adaptive learning wherein you can tailor the practice to each student’s need to make it more efficient. It is a convenient tool where you can master your skills.
Having said that, there is no denying the fact that the program does have certain limitations that can be quite frustrating and exasperating. It focuses on memorization, is quite repetitive, puts pressure on students and yes can cost you as well.
Before you opt for the XtraMath program, it is recommended to evaluate your needs and preferences and check if it meets your requirements considering all the factors mentioned above.
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Wrapping Up
XtraMath is an online program that you can think of for developing fluency in math facts. It is unique in the sense that it offers features like progressive tracking, improved math fluency, and personalized learning among others. It can be of great help to do away with your weakness in math facts. However, the said program is not devoid of certain drawbacks that can negatively impact the user’s gameplay. So you have to weigh the pros and cons before making a choice.
I hope you will find this article of some help. In case, something is missing, you can write to us by commenting in the comments section. We appreciate your valuable feedback. Your feedback is well appreciated. You can visit our website for more content like this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q 1: Can I use XtraMath on my mobile device?
Ans: Yes, You can use it on your Mobile and Tablet.
Q 2: Is the XtraMath app available for Android users?
Ans: Yes, there is an XtraMath app available for Android users. You can download it from the Google Play Store.
Q 3: Can I track progress on XtraMath?
Ans: Yes, you can track the progress and identify the areas of improvement as well. Both students and teachers can use this feature.
