In the Choice page you, the teacher, choose which numbers the computer will use to set problems for the student. The computer chooses randomly from all the numbers and operators which have a cross beside them to make up the problems.
The problems set can range from very easy (1+0) to difficult (132÷12). To set very easy problems select all the numbers from 0 to 9 in the first column, the + operator in the second column and the number 0 in the third column. These problems are then set for the student;
0+0, 1+0, 2+0, 3+0, 4+0, 5+0, 6+0, 7+0, 8+0, 9+0 - in random order.
If the children are too young to understand adding nothing then you can simply point out that they are only to look for the first number. This gives practice in number recognition. The next level probably involves ticking 1 in the third column to give 0+1, 1+1, 2+1 etc. Ticking both the 0 and 1 in the third column gives 2+0, 3+1, 1+1 etc.
To make a sum involving subtraction the computer chooses two numbers, A and B, at random from the numbers that you have allowed. It then adds them together to get a total and prints the sum, "total - B" on the screen. A similar procedure is carried out for division.
Remember that the speed can be decreased using the down arrow button while the game is being played.
If you are giving a group of children practice on the same type of problem eg the 3,4 and 5 times table then pressing R after one has completed his/her turn will reset the scores without changing the possible choice of problems. This will let the others compete and try to gain a better score.
Some tips about Card Target
No matter what Target is chosen in Card Target the cards can always be cleared from the screen. If the child chooses to use small numbered cards in place of a higher number then it might appear that sometimes the cards cannot be cleared away. For example, if the target is 6 and cards 4, 1 and 1 are used then the child may be left with the cards 5, 5 and 2 at the end. Card 1 should only be used when it is needed!
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The "use small screen" box allows the Card Target to be played on 12 inch monitors. With a 12 inch monitor Number Target can still be played although the numbered balls will disappear for a few seconds. I think that Card Target will play ok on a Colour Classic and Number Target might be playable but they have not been tested. If anyone tries them it would be nice to hear how useful they are.
I hope that you and your children find these programs enjoyable.
