WebMath

WebMath is a powerful site with content that helps demystify challenging concepts. Testing out the math helpers for a few functions that first-graders might use resulted in really helpful explanations and examples. Though it doesn’t have a lot of fancy graphics, this site presents the material in a way that mimics what kids should be doing on paper.

WebMath provides a large number of useful functionalities absolutely free. This includes plotting ellipses, hyperbolas and solving inequalities. The software was basically designed as an advanced calculator and unit converter. It can prove helpful for calculating anything from loan interest rates to sale price and even the windchill factor in outside temperature.

WebMath has tremendous potential for reinforcing concepts. The only downside is that kids could potentially put in problems and get their answers (and work shown) without actually doing the legwork. Parent or teacher involvement is key when kids use this site for homework.