Description:
Are you looking for a way to supplement your child's algebra skills without boring him or her to tears? The text-prep experts at Princeton Review have devised Algebra Edge, an easily loaded two-disc package that teaches and tests all the topics covered in first-year algebra. The two-disc format neatly divides Algebra Edge into two distinct parts: Algebra Smart (Disc No. 1), and Grade Builder (Disc No. 2). Algebra Smart, the more substantial of the two, consists of lessons, rapid-fire quizzes, and a record-keeping function. The cartoon graphics and wacky voices are designed for kids, and an Olympic theme runs throughout--the quizzes are called the Algebra Games, and the lessons are taught at the Algebra Training Building. The quizzes are very fast-paced, and thus are not recommended until a student has achieved mastery of a topic. One especially helpful feature is the Info Center, the record-keeping function, which allows you to look up any current algebra textbook and review the material that was taught at school the same day. The Grade Builder CD-ROM consists of review lessons and two games: Death By Algebra and Soak Your Sibling. The graphics for the lessons are set against a very dark background, which some users may find disconcerting. The lessons themselves have more talking and less chalkboard work than those in Algebra Smart. Death By Algebra has an ironic tone that is suitable for most postmodern kids, but it may bother religious conservatives or others who object to jokes such as "Welcome to the game show where, just like in life, you earn points and collect prizes until you die." Soak Your Sibling was nearly incomprehensible on the first try, and kids will find the characters either hilarious or annoying. Algebra Edge comes with a guarantee that is characteristic of the Princeton Review: if a student finishes the program and doesn't raise his or her grade, Princeton Review will refund the price of the software. To get a refund, the student must return the CD-ROMs (which have an automatic record-keeping function showing which lessons and tests have been taken) along with copies of report cards. A student must use the program within two grading periods to qualify for a refund. --Matt Kohut
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