Mighty Math Cosmic Geometry Reviewer's Comments

Mighty Math does it again; this one CD program receives our “TopTenREVIEWS Bronze Award” and is more amusing and engaging than any of the other geometry products that we reviewed. Edmark’s educational philosophy is that software should go beyond what pencil and paper can do, so instead of presenting a program that mirrors a static textbook it offers entertaining, dynamic games and interactive 2D and 3D images.

This would be an excellent choice for introducing a student to geometry, perhaps the summer before they begin formal geometry instruction. Through this program, kids can learn basic geometry terminology and concepts and be well prepared for their class.

Teaching Tools:  

This program is not a revamped textbook; it is a game that includes several instructional and activity areas.

At the opening of the game the participant is placed on what appears to be a large traveling meteor, they can travel across the surface in various vehicles and enter different structures, each of which presents geometry related subjects or activities.

There are two quiz type sections, one that goes through a maze and another that is presented along with a glossary type feature that explains many geometry terms and concepts. The difficulty of the quizzes can be adjusted. Other areas include a tessellation activity where you can create a piece of art, build a 3D robot or construct your own geometry movie.

Topics Covered:  

Through the games, many basic geometry topics are addressed including angles, triangles, area and volumes as well as terminology and some geometry history. However, this product does not cover many theorems or the process of proofing.

This product is best used as an introduction to geometry.

Ease of Use/Homework Help:  

This product is easy to use, but is not a good homework helper. Since it is a game, you have to play the game to learn information or enter one of the activity areas. With this product, students can build a good geometry foundation but it is not designed to be used as a resource to help with homework.

Help/Documentation:  

Technical support can be accessed through email or telephone and there are FAQs posted. This product relates that it is for Windows 98, 95 or Mac, however it seemed to run just fine with Windows XP.

Summary:  

This is a fun program that would be an excellent tool for introducing geometry to young students. Mighty Math Cosmic Geometry covers most basic concepts, is easy enough for kids to use on their own and is entertaining enough to keep kids interested. We highly recommend this product for the summer before a student enters their first semester of geometry.