Community reviews for ST Math: K-6

I don't recommend kids doing this

Overall, I think these games work quite well as supplementary content students can play on their own to drive home the point of a lesson. In general, they're best used on an individual basis; I'm not sure how productive they'd be when played with the whole class. They're also better for visual learners specifically, so they may not be best suited to all students.

I like the fact that the program encourages children to keep repeating levels until they suceed. They only get to make 2 errors per level so there is no way of cheating your way through. The levels are interactive and easy to understand. There is the option for children to put up their hand, which changes the colour of the screen, making it easy to see who needs help. Children work at their own pace, the levels encourage children to want to move on. This game is not as fancy looking as some others on the market and is more learning base, which means it is not always the first choice for my children when they select a program themselves.

I truly value ST as a program that builds conceptual math skills in our students. Our school uses it for a reason: for most of our students, it builds really strong, deep math skills and is also highly engaging. However, I do wish there was more room to easily differentiate content for students who are behind grade level. ST allows this to happen broadly (you can move a student to a previous grade, for example), but this doesn't allow for much nuance. In addition, when a student gets stuck on ST, there are no program-led interventions/supports. I think having a short video that gives students a little guidance after 5 or more attempts could be vital.

This is a unique way to teach students - visually first. It's a research-based approach on using spatial-temporal reasoning that is well thought out and works without any hiccups to teach math concepts. The games have learning objectives and levels, so students go progress through the application as they work.

Visual manipulatives for students to use to increase their skills in mathematics. The games are fun for students and the visuals of the games are attractive. There is a clear lack of directions for students when playing the games, therefore, it can become frustrating if they are unable to figure out what they are supposed to be doing. Teachers are provided with fantastic information from the student data that can then be used to help guide further instruction in the classroom. Games are also provided for upper level grades, but they are still in the style of the elementary games and may seem very juvenile for older students.

ST Math is invaluable to the students in my school division because the instruction is primarily visual. Students with limited vocabulary and below grade level reading can still access grade level math instruction using this program. The format is more like a video game than math instruction, so it is engaging. The data provided helps me to identify students who still need some help. I think on demand audio instructions might be helpful for students working on higher math skills. Since the program is web-based, it can be included with other work sent home for students who are sick. Also, since little teacher interaction is necessary while students use it, it can be left in the plans for substitutes.

ST Math is a great tool to have as station work, at home or after students get their classwork done. My students love seeing JiJi the penguin! If you overuse the website students will grow bored of it, just like anything else. Having the math be all visual helps my lower level math students gain understanding of what is happening mathematically. Rather than just learning an algorithm they gain mathematical understand of a concept.

I like the app and the students finish a level quickly because they are engaged in the activity. I like the way it weaves problem solving into each skill (so it is just not rote memorization). I think it is also a great skill for ELL students or struggling students because it is very visual and less verbal than many apps. It is a very different approach to learning some of the concepts than other programs are. I see it used more as a review and practice tool, as to a teaching tool. If students have computers, tablets or smart devices, it would be useful as a homework tool (my students do not have those tools at home). I am also impressed at the vast amount of material that is provided for each grade level, it is easy to enrich or review students with this material.

While some students will be engaged by the no-frills visual game play, the lack of directions and guidance during games could be frustrating for some. Students who already understand the concepts on an abstract level might also find it difficult to complete the tasks given in a more basic way. The information provided to teachers is outstanding, including mastery of skills and time on task. There are some major pros and cons to this program, but overall it could be a great resource for your ELL and low-literacy students.