LeapFrog Buy One Get One Free: Twist & Shout Addition and Subtraction

Twist & Shout Addition is a well-thought-out, portable game that teaches children how to add numbers and indirectly introduces them to subtraction. The games develop reasoning skills and there's plenty of opportunity to practice logic and problem solving. There are three functions to this game:

• the "Learning" function operates on two levels. The first is a completely random mode that allows children to choose their own addition sum and then, by following instructions, hitting the activator button and hearing the equation, the answer is revealed. The second is an "ordered" mode in which learning addition tables takes place in order. For example, 4+0, 4+1, 4+2, and so on.
• the "Quiz" function again operates on two levels. In the first, the child chooses two numbers to add together, and is faced with three possible answers. The child then hits the activator button again when they hear the correct answer. If they are wrong, they are invited to try again and if wrong for a second time, the correct answer is revealed. On the second level of the "Quiz" function, children are quizzed about a particular addition table, for example, "What is 5+1?" in a random order.
• the "Thunderbolt" function introduces subtraction by asking the child to fill in the missing number in an equation. For example: "What plus 4 is 10?"

In all these games, Twist & Shout tots up the correct number of sums solved, and offers congratulations every time 5, 10 and 20 are answered correctly in a row. An excellent easy-to-follow pamphlet for parents and children accompanies the game. The only distraction is the American accent, but this is a small point.

According to Michael Wood, president of LeapFrog, "Presented as a game, learning addition can be engaging--even a blast. Through fun learning, we think your child will discover that mathematics is an exciting, satisfying and creative pursuit." This is an excellent toy based on sound educational principles, and is a learning aid that really does help make maths fun.

Supplied with demonstration batteries only, requires x3AA batteries. Suitable for Ages 4-11 years. --Susan Naylor

Twist & Shout Subtraction.

We all know how important it is for children to enjoy the learning process. It naturally follows that it is of paramount importance to provide learning opportunities, to encourage discovery so that children can enjoy their learning successes. Twist & Shout Subtraction excels in all these areas.

The game helps children to develop reasoning skills and it also allows them to practice logic and problem-solving skills, both of which are important aspects of everyday life. It is widely accepted that learning mathematical facts and numbers comes about most easily when they are presented in order, one number set at a time. Twist & Shout Subtraction uses this concept and by adding catchy music to the games, it reinforces memorisation by making the learning fun.

There are four game modes included, all of which are ready to play after twisting the game dials and selecting the appropriate mode. "Math Master" mode for example--a simple, straightforward game--invites players to twist the two number dials and select one number on each side of the equals sign, then hit the activator button, when the first part of the sum appears on the screen. Twist & Shout speaks the equation and its answer, and the whole is accompanied by catchy music.

A volume control is included on the learning aid, including low, medium and high. There is also the option to use headphones (not included) for quiet learning play. There is an inbuilt safety device that automatically switches Twist & Shout off after 18 seconds if it hasn't been used or switched off. Accompanying the learning aid is an excellent pamphlet explaining all aspects of the games, and this should be read before beginning, especially the section related to the use and removal of batteries. As this game is produced in the US, certain spellings and pronunciations are Americanised, and care should be taken when listening to instructions. However, this in no way detracts from the enjoyment and learning potential as this is another excellent game from LeapFrog which will provide hours of fun and stimulation. Adults also might learn from playing the games. Suitable for Ages 4-11 years. Twist & Shout Subtraction also makes a great learning aid for Key Stage Two maths students. --Susan Naylor