Posted in Reviews

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About the product/service:  As part of the TOS Homeschool Crew I received the Deluxe Version of Quarter Mile Math which includes the Levels 1, 2 and 3 Bundle.  This program is not new to me as I have used it in the past.  To be honest, I had sort of forgotten about it as I had it installed on my older boys' computer and they are too old for it.  My younger kids generally don't use that computer, plus they had cleared their desktop, and the icon was no longer there. 

Anyway, I remember when we first got it and I was like Boy, this is pretty simple.  I mean, we are used to the latest and greatest graphics around here.  The graphics for this program are anything but late or great.  BUT!  The kids really loved playing this game!  (Well, it's not really a game, but don't tell my kids that!)

Zoom ahead to 2009.  (Wasn't that fun?  You didn't know my blog was a time machine, did you?) Anyway, I installed the software to find that nothing had changed.  It was the same old plain and simple graphics with the simplest of sound effects.  Again, they kids have loved it!!!  There is just something about beating a clock and better yet, breaking your own record. 

Okay, you probably want me to describe it.  Really, you just have either a row of race cars or a row of horses at the bottom of the screen.  Then the problems are flashed on the screen and you have to type in the answer as quickly as possible.  As you do, your car or horse moves forward, well up really.  The computer "plays" along with you, and the other cars and horses move up the screen too.  (There are ways to race other students, but we haven't gotten to that this time around, though I do remember the kids doing it a few years back.) 

The object of the game is to win the race!  That's it!  It's really as simple as that.  You would think with all the high tech stuff out there a kid would find this as boring as all get out, BUT THEY DON'T.  (At least mine don't, I don't know about yours.  I have enough to do around here without worrying about yours.  That is your job!  LOL) 

Anyway, Level 1 is for grades K-3, Level 2 is for grades 4-6, and Level 3 is for grades 6-9.  But don't be fooled, adults can enjoy it too!  You can bundle the levels for a better value.  The program also comes in two versions, the Deluxe Version, which I received, and the Standard Version.  You can compare the two versions here.

What are the pros of this product?  It's very simple and easy to use.  Kids are not distracted by all kinds of moving graphics or sound effects.  It's really all about math.  The fact that they can compete against themselves (and others) makes it a real plus. 

What's not to like?  Some kids might not like the simplicity of the program, but my kids don't seem to mind it a bit.  It would be worth your while, though, to go ahead and try the demo before you buy. 

The Crazy Mom take:  Well, as you can probably tell, I love this because it is simple.  I'm a pretty easy going gal, and you will find that I can find things to love about just about any homeschool program or product.  However, the ones I rave about the most, are the most simple.  With eight kids (well, only seven that I homeschool) to deal with, I don't need anything too complex.  The simpler the better here at the Crazy House! 

And, like I said, my kids love it too.  Just this morning I found Bear sitting on my bed playing it on the laptop.  She did it of her own volition.  (Of course, technically, that's a no no, as they are supposed to ask permission to use the laptop.) 

I think I prefer the Standard Version of the product where I paid once and it is mine to keep rather than having to pay a monthly fee.  You will have to decide which option works best for your family.  Either way, it's a very simple, but neat, little program that will give your kids something fun to do that might just teach them something in the process!

Thanks for reading!

What's the bottom line?  For what I received, the Deluxe Version/Levels 1,2 and 3 Bundle, the cost is $2.95 per family per month/$19.95 per family per year/$34.95 per family for two years.  There are lots of other ways to buy, so check out the website for more info!  News Flash!!!  Until Sept. 30, 2009, use promo code 7M7P7 to get $5 off your order!!!

Download a demo HERE.

I'm going to give Quarter Mile Math 4 out of 5 smileys!!!

Check it out!  http://www.thequartermile.com/

See what my fellow TOS Crew members have to say @

http://www.homeschoolblogger.com/HomeschoolCrew/713464/

*The Smiley System: 

I can't really recommend this product.

 I doubt this product would be helpful to many people.

 This is a good product, but isn't right for everyone.

 Most homeschool moms will find this useful.

 This is great, and I would recommend it to anyone!!!

Disclaimer!!!  I reviewed this product because I am a member of The Old Schoolhouse Homeschool Crew.  I was given the product by the vendor to use and evalutate in my home so that I might share my insights with others.  Other than receiving the product, which I kinda have to to be able to assess the product, I am not compensated for my reviews in any way.  I am in no way obligated to give a positive review.  I do try to point out negatives when I see them, though I am admittedly a pretty easy going gal!  What you read are my honest assessments of the products I receive. 

As with all products, you must do the research before buying.  Please visit the the other crew members' blogs, the vendor websites, and any other review sites you might find before buying.  I can't guarantee that a product will work for you.  You must decide what will fit with your teaching style, and your child(ren)'s learning style(s).  I do not judge anything other than the educational value of the products I review.  I am not qualified to make judgements as to the safely of any product, and I make no quarantee that the products I review are safe for you, your family, or anyone else.  I am simply giving my opinion, only you know what is best for you and your family.

Don't use your blow dryer while you sleep or take a bath.  Don't read my reviews in the tub either, and please do not read them when you are asleep, though I do not guarantee that you won't fall asleep reading them!