Review Overview
A. Instruction - 7.5
B. Design - 9.8
C. Engagement - 8.6
8.6
Zap Zap Kindergarten Math: A Go-To App for Numeracy
Summary : Add Some Gamification to Early Math Instruction
Zap Zap Kindergarten Math is a game-based approach for learning foundational math skills. After registering with the app, users will be launched in a spaceship. Users navigate the ship by holding their finger to the screen and dragging it in the direction they wish for it to move. Users need to navigate their spaceship to a planet using the map on the bottom right of the screen. They will need to release their finger when their spaceship is on the planet and then tap the “Enter” button.
At this point, multiple levels will load that users are to complete in order, and each level teaches a foundational math skill. Each level begins with directions for completing tasks before presenting them with the tasks. If users complete the task correctly, verbal praise is awarded. If they are incorrect, they are offered another opportunity. After completing a level, users earn a puzzle piece and a score, and they can then advance levels. If users wish to exit a level, they can tap the “Pause” button on the top right and then the “Back to Planet” option.
Instructional Ideas for Zap Zap Kindergarten Math
- After teaching a math skill, teachers can have students use this app to reinforce the skill. Teachers may need to direct students to the particular planet that teaches the skill and model how to use the app and complete the levels.
- If teachers identify a student who is struggling with foundational math skills, they can inform that student’s parents/guardians of the situation. They can then encourage them to let the student use this app at home. With this app’s game-based approach to learning, students may be driven to engage this app deeply and acquire the skills they need to be successful.
- Teachers can set aside class time for students to use this app. When they finish, teachers can ask students what they learned, how many lessons they completed, and what they thought of using this app to learn math skills. Students can share their ideas with a classmate or via a whole-class discussion.
- After students have gained the foundational skills using this app, teachers can transfer them to additional apps, such as Todo Math and Endless Numbers.
A1. Rigor | |
A2. 21st Century Skills | |
A3. Conn. to Future Learning | |
A4. Value of Errors | |
A5. Feedback to Teacher | |
A6. Level of Material | |
A7. Cooperative Learning | |
A8. Accom. of Individual Diff. |
B1. Ability to Save Progress | |
B2. Platform Integration | |
B3. Screen Design | |
B4. Ease of Use | |
B5. Navigation | |
B6. Goal Orientation | |
B7. Information Presentation | |
B8. Media Integration | |
B9. Cultural Sensitivity |
C1. Learner Control | |
C2. Interactivity | |
C3. Pace | |
C4. Flexibility | |
C5. Interest | |
C6. Aesthetics | |
C7. Utility |
Screenshots of Zap Zap Kindergarten Math