For some reason, even good math students seem to have a hard time with deciphering clues out of word problems and presenting them in equation form. Recognizing this, Tom Snyder Productions has designed Math Mysteries , a series of programs that helps students practice asking the right questions and finding the relevant information. Each Math Mysteries presents math word problems in the context of an intriguing mystery. In the case of Measurement , an earthquake has damaged an underwater habitat, and the player must investigate the incident. Along the way the player must solve math problems to advance in the game and solve the mystery.
Conversion tables are also available for use with the mathpad.
The animation is cute, and each character is humorous and quirky. There is also no annoying music. Hearing impaired users can use these programs easily, as the dialogue is presented in text, as well as audio. I would strongly suggest that teachers and parents familiarize themselves with the game's interface before presenting the children with the game, as the interface, although easy to use, is not intuitive. I really liked the way the word problems were presented in a mystery, the kids want to work through the problems to find out what's going on.