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Apps Analysis

By Stefan Dubowski

Thinkrolls: Kings & Queens

Logo for 'Thinkrolls: Kings & Queens'.

A royally fun followup to the original Thinkrolls game, in this version players use logic, problem-solving and determination to get their characters rolling the right way through a fairy-tale landscape with dungeons, dragons and other ye olde surprises. Move the obstacles to clear the path; learn physics principles as you go. The app includes one set of puzzles for children five to eight, and another set for eight and up — and they all tie in with subjects such as simple machines (introduced in Grade 2) and overall educational goals like analysis and perseverance.

DEVICE: Apple, Android
SOURCE: Apple App Store ($5.49), Google Play (5.99)
RATING: 4+, Everyone

Toca Lab: Elements

Logo for 'Toca Lab: Elements'.

This app introduces elementary-grade scientists to all 118 elements on the periodic table, giving each substance its own personality to help highlight their properties. Players can try lab tools like the centrifuge and the Bunsen burner — and find out how the elements change when you separate them or heat them up. It’s a fun stepping-stone to experimentation and understanding the periodic table, which students will encounter for real in Grade 9 chemistry. The developers note the depictions of the elements are just for fun, designed to help children engage with chemistry.

DEVICE: Apple, Android
SOURCE: Apple App Store ($5.49), Google Play ($5.49)
RATING: 4+, Everyone

Forest: Stay focused

Logo for 'Forest: Stay focused'.

An app for middle and high school students who can’t seem to put their phones down: you plant a seed, which grows into a beautiful tree. But it only works if you don’t leave the app to check your texts, posts or emails, or to play games. Can’t resist being distracted? Your tree withers, incentivizing you to keep your hands off your device and your mind focused on whatever task you may have at hand, be it homework or piano practise or even simply engaging in real life. It helps students practise self-regulation, a veritable root of the Ontario curriculum.

DEVICE: Apple, Android
SOURCE: Apple App Store ($2.79), Google Play (free)
RATING: 4+, Everyone