Ed. note: App of the Week picks are now being curated by the editors of Common Sense Education [1], which helps educators find the best ed-tech tools, learn best practices for teaching with tech, and equip students with the skills they need to use technology safely and responsibly. Click here [2]to read the full app review.
MobyMax [3]
What’s It Like? MobyMax is a K-8 learning platform (and Chrome app) for math, literacy, science, and social studies equipped with adaptive tests, test-prep lessons, and motivational tools such as games and badges. The app claims that all sections (from Fact Fluency to Informational Reading Skills) are explicitly aligned with Common Core State Standards and Next Generation Science Standards. MobyMax also features specific state test-prep activities. Unique features include teachers’ ability to assign badges for performance, student goal-setting, student-teacher messaging, and teacher-created class contests. The site also has a Wall feature where teachers can post class messages, assignments, events, and polls.
Price: Free/paid
Grades: K-8
Rating: 4/5
Pros: Easy-to-use, standards-based assessment tool monitors student growth as students try and retry questions from multiple subjects.
Cons: Students learn only through simple guided practice, and assessments could demand broader skills-building rather than direct standardized test prep.
Bottom line: Use these standards-based lessons to promote independent, self-driven learning and monitor student growth.