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How can Algebra Software Help Raise Grades?


The best algebra programs help students by increasing their math comprehension and confidence through instruction and homework help. Since mathematics is a difficult subject for many students, the top programs present subjects in a variety of ways so whether the student is a text, visual or audio learner they can find the way that works for them.

Algebra is a pivotal course for many students and if they struggle at this level they may continue to have problems as they advance through their coursework. So acquiring foundational math skills at the algebra level can help students successfully pass algebra and advance into higher math with confidence.

Many of these programs offer the following to help students with their homework and prepare for tests:

  • Worksheets – This is a tool where students or teachers can input unique problems. Many worksheets have equation solvers that can solve single, variable or systems of equations easily. The best also have the ability to create 3D graphs and printable documents.
  • Graphing Calculator – Graphing calculators are a useful but expensive tool, but some math programs include a fully functional graphing calculator with the ability to create and store 3D graphs.
  • Homework Help – Some programs provide access to online homework help, which is usually a website where students can search for homework help for a specific problem, join math forums, play games, view tutorials and more.
  • Tutorials – These are short instructional videos or animated presentations that explain how to use a software feature or how to solve a specific type of problem. Often tutorials also include some guidance on how to solve a particular problem using a graphing calculator.
  • Step–by–Step Solutions – Most programs provide fully explained solutions to sample problems so the student can find guidance on how to solve a problem or gain insight on a new topic.
  • Quizzes/Games – Quizzes and games are included in many programs to help the student discover the areas they need to work on and monitor their progress.

In this site, you’ll find articles related to Algebra, as well as comprehensive reviews and a side-by-side comparison to help you make an informed decision on which software is right for you. At TopTenREVIEWS — We do the research so you don’t have to.™


What to Look for in Algebra Software

Helpful algebra programs offer more than what can be found in the students’ textbook, such as homework help, interactive tutorials, games and a worksheet tool or graphing calculator. The most useful have all of these elements, is easy to use and covers all topics.

Below are the criteria TopTenREVIEWS used to evaluate Algebra Software.

  • Teaching Tools – Is the softwareSince students learn in their own way, it is helpful if the program relates subjects by various methods including text, audio, animations, video or games.
  • Homework Help – Homework assistance is what most students require and they want something faster and better than their textbook. The best homework helpers offer step–by–step sample problems that are easy to find.
  • Topics Covered – It is helpful if the program covers all algebra topics from Pre–Algebra through Algebra II. Additionally, it is cost effective if the software covers several math subjects, so it can be used for more than one class or student.
  • Up–to–Datedness – Most programs fall short in this area. They may be updated every few years to accommodate a newer operating system but the content remains the same. The leading programs are updated frequently and include new technology, such as interactive elements, high–end graphics and up–to–date online content.
  • Ease of Use/Support – These programs are for students and ought to be easy to use. The software provider should also offer adequate support, such as embedded help, tutorials and easy to contact customer and technical support.
For the best student program available, see the new Microsoft Student with Encarta Premium 2007.

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Algebra Software Review - A Review of the top Algebra Software products

Find Your Absolute Value

Navigate the coordinate plane, discover unknowns and sail into higher grades with Algebra Software.

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Reviewer Comments
Lowest Price
$59.95


$32.95


$8.90


$15.16


$9.99


$74.99


$29.99

Disc. Disc. Disc.
Overall Rating
Ratings
Teaching Tools
Homework Help
Topics Covered
Up-to-Datedness
Ease of Use/Support
Subjects Covered
Pre-Algebra              
   
Algebra I              
   
Algebra II        

       
Teaching Tools
Testing/Progress









Quizzes/ Exercises        

 

 
Exams/Tests
 
 

   
 
Progress Monitor
 

 
 


Instruction Methods









Games          
 

 
Video    



   

Audio    
   
   
 
Text          
       
Graphics/Diagrams                    
Homework Help
Glossary/Definitions      


   

Quick Formula Reference      


     
Step-by-Step Solutions  
 

 
   
Problem Solver  



 

 
Extra Features









Calculator      

   


Graphing Calculator  








Additional Online Resources      



   
Creates Graphs/Visuals  
 
   

 
Worksheets  
 

 

 
Unit Conversion Tool  








Topics Covered *
Integers/ Real Numbers          
   
 
Rational/ Irrational Numbers          
   
 
Reciprocal        

   
 
Taking Roots        

   
 
Exponents          
   
 
Absolute Value        

   
 
Linear Equations/ Inequalities (1 variable)          
   
 
Compute x - y Intercepts        

   
 
Regions Defined by Linear Equations        

   
 
Derive Linear Equations        

   
 
Point-Slope Formula          
   
 
Parallel/ Perpendicular Lines        

   
 
Linear Equations/ Inequalities (2 variables)        

   
 
Monomials/ Polynomials        

   
 
Factoring 2nd and simple 3rd Degree Polynomials        

   
 
Differences of Two Squares/ Perfect Squares        

   
 
Rational Expressions/ Functions          
   
 
Word Problems          
   
 
Relation/ Function        

   
 
Domain/ Range        

   
 
Quadradic Formula/ Completing the Square        

   
 
Logic  


 




Graphing Linear Equations        

   
 
Ease of Use/Support
Tutorials      
         
Embedded Help      
         
Online FAQs/Knowledgebase      
         
Email                    
Telephone  



 
   
Chat/IM  








Online User Guide  
 

 



Supported Configurations
Windows XP        
         
Windows 2000        
   
   
Windows ME        
   
   
Windows NT        
   
   
Windows 98
   

   
   
Windows 95
   

   
   
MAC


   
   
 
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TOP TEN PRODUCTS Microsof Student with Encarta Math Success Study Works Math Complete Learning System High School Astro Algebra Algebrat Math Advantag College Algebra Derive Learning System Math and Computer Skills

* Topics covered based on Mathmathics Content Standard for Algebra 1, for grades 8–12 (n.d.). Algebra I – Content Standards (CA Dept of Education). from http://www.cde.ca.gov/be/st/ss/mthalgebra1.asp


 
 
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