7 Apps and Websites to Help You Teach Algebra

Common Sense Media’s service Graphite, which offers independent ratings and reviews on learning apps and websites, has compiled this list of its top apps and websites that help teach algebra. For complete reviews, and for each app’s "Learning Rating," visit the Graphite website.

Playful Minds1) Playful Minds
Grade Levels: K-2
Price: Free
Concepts: Motivation, problem solving
Set on a colorful tropical island, Playful Mindsteaches math skills geared for grades K-2. Kids complete different math tasks to unlock prizes and other islands. Grade-appropriate lessons cover counting, addition/subtraction and more. Progress reports help parents and teachers stay on top of students’ work. Read the full review.

NRICH2) NRICH
Grade Levels: K-12
Price: Free
Concepts: Prediction, developing novel solutions
NRICHis a site filled with problem-solving activities to challenge and engage kids to think mathematically. Students are encouraged to take an “explore, question, notice and discuss” approach when developing solutions in real-world contexts. A multiplayer feature enables students to form groups. Additional features include interactive whiteboard, offline games and STEM projects. Read the full review.

DragonBox3) DragonBox Algebra 5+
Grade Levels: 4-8
Price: $5.99
Concepts: Logic, strategy
Entertaining drag-and-drop game design makes learning algebra fun in Dragonbox Algebra 5+. Kids follow easy instructions while they play along with avatars and cartoon characters to collect rewards. Read the full review.

AC Math4) AC Math
Grade Levels: 6-12
Price: Free to try; $300 for teacher use; $500 for classroom
Concepts: Applying information, collecting data
AC Mathoffersa deep set of comprehensive learning tools, lessons and data for student and teachers. Students get instant feedback on math tasks to gain mastery as they practice skills. Text and audio lessons help support a variety of learners, and a dashboard monitors activity progress. Each activity is based on Common Core or state standards. Read the full review.

Algebra Touch5) Algebra Touch
Grade Levels: 6-12
Price: $1.99
Concepts: Making conclusions, identifying strengths and weaknesses
For students new to or struggling with algebra, Algebra Touchteaches the basics in a stress-free way. As kids solve equations, they receive positive, step-by-step input towards finding an answer. Students discover how to apply information and gain practice to reinforce needed skills. Read the full review.

Get the Math6) Get the Math
Grade Levels: 7-10
Price: Free
Concepts: Problem-solving, thinking critically
Get the Math applies algebra to real-world scenarios using real-world people in fashion, music or sports. Kids watch videos and are challenged to use algebra to design a drum track, cost a clothing line or perfect a basketball free throw. The teacher page provides lesson plans aligned to the Common Core Math Standards as well as follow-up assessments. Read the full review. 

GeoGebra7) Geogebra
Grade Levels: 7-12
Price: Free
Concepts: Applying information, logic
GeoGebra lets kids explore algebra and geometry simultaneously as they create mathematical constructions and models. From trapezoids to whisker plots, students can drag objects and adjust parameters to fit given data. Teachers can add their own interactive worksheets and have access to extensive support video tutorials and a user forum. Read the full review.

About the Author

Common Sense Education helps educators find the best edtech tools, learn best practices for teaching with tech, and equip students with the skills they need to use technology safely and responsibly. Go to Common Sense Education for free resources including full reviews of digital tools, ready-made lesson plans, videos, webinars, and more.


Featured

  • students using digital devices, surrounded by abstract AI motifs and soft geometric design

    Ed Tech Startup Kira Launches AI-Native Learning Platform

    A new K-12 learning platform aims to bring personalized education to every student. Kira, one of the latest ed tech ventures from Andrew Ng, former director of Stanford's AI Lab and co-founder of Coursera and DeepLearning.AI, "integrates artificial intelligence directly into every educational workflow — from lesson planning and instruction to grading, intervention, and reporting," according to a news announcement.

  • toolbox featuring a circuit-like AI symbol and containing a screwdriver, wrench, and hammer

    Microsoft Launches AI Tools for Educators

    Microsoft has introduced a variety of AI tools aimed at helping educators develop personalized learning experiences for their students, create content more efficiently, and increase student engagement.

  • laptop displaying a red padlock icon sits on a wooden desk with a digital network interface background

    Reports Point to Domain Controllers as Prime Ransomware Targets

    A recent report from Microsoft reinforces warns of the critical role Active Directory (AD) domain controllers play in large-scale ransomware attacks, aligning with U.S. government advisories on the persistent threat of AD compromise.

  • Two hands shaking in the center with subtle technology icons, graphs, binary code, and a padlock in the dark blue background

    Two Areas for K-12 Schools to Assess for When to Work with a Managed Services Provider

    The complexity of today’s IT network infrastructure and increased cybersecurity risk are quickly moving beyond many school districts’ ability to manage on their own. But a new technology model, a partnership with a managed services provider, offers a way forward for schools to overcome these challenges.