App: Common Core math tests, 3-5
Developer: Common Core Test Prep LLC
Genres: Education

The Common Core math tests can be a source of anxiety for students because there is pressure to pass them and it is a very unusual test compared with other tests. Unlike tests students often take, the Common Core tests are typically done on a computer and the type of test questions often require multiple steps and a deeper understanding of math. 

This app has 15 full-length (30 questions each) math tests that are modeled on actual Common Core test questions for the 3rd, 4th and 5th grade that have been published by State Departments of Education. But it does more than just get students used to taking a test on a computer: it aims to fill in skill gaps and teach them how to answer similar questions on the real test.

After the student answers a question, s/he is given immediate feedback as to what the correct answer is and is then given access to read a 1 to 4 page detailed, colorful explanation that assumes minimum prior knowledge of the key concepts. 

Each question is tracked as being correct, incorrect or unanswered by changing the button’s color so the student may ensure s/he completes the test and can review difficult questions again. If the educator wishes, the student’s results can be printed showing her/his name, date, time, the test version, the concept for each question and whether the student answered it correctly, incorrectly or did not answer it. Such a report may be helpful when generating an individualized lesson plan, and to monitor progress if subsequent test versions are used.
 
Some students may find taking just one test reassures them of their skills and they may not need to take additional tests. Other students may have difficulty with one or more questions and can then repeat those questions or entire tests to help fill in skill gaps for the actual State exams. 

When the student finishes a test the app closes and releases all memory, that way when it is started again by another student all the answers will be blank. This may be helpful for classroom settings with shared computers.

We understand that math takes a lot of concentration and it may be hard for students to build up stamina to take the Common Core math tests. Taking these computer-based practice tests may help them develop stamina, and feel better prepared for the actual test and hopefully reduce test anxiety.

If the adult authorizes, the student may turn on an option to get a quick break in the form of fun photos from nature if a questions explanation is short. This may help keep the student’s focus on the computer instead of getting distracted and may also encourage the student to check the explanations for all questions just to see if there is a fun photo there, and hopefully read the full explanations too. 

In an effort to protect children from undesired content, we have designed this app as follows. The app does not connect to any websites so it can be used off-line. There are no in-app purchases, subscriptions or 3rd party advertisements. The app does not collect or send us any info and when turned off it does not save any data. 

The numbers in the icon indicate the grades covered (3rd, 4th and 5) which would be the typical grades for elementary school in many counties throughout the US that take the Common Core state exams. The app is fully functional, never expires and we continue to improve it through revisions and expanded features based on feedback -- so please let us know what is on your wish list. 

This is one of many products we've made that we hope will make learning fun.

Release notes:
We've added 5 full-length tests for the 3rd grade. As with the 4th and 5th grade practice tests, the 3rd grade tests have 30 questions closely modeled on Common Core math questions published by State Departments of Education. Each question has detailed, colorful step-by-step explanations that gently remind the student of the underlying math concept used to solve that question as well as many tips on how to solve similar questions.