Manic Math
Available for Android and IOS, this enjoyable game helps pupils pracitse basic calculations and encourages them to think quickly. It doesn't cover as many types of calculation as some mental arithmetic apps do, but the fun factor should make it popular with pupils. There are paid and free (with advertising) versions for Android, and a paid version (less than £1) for IOS.
Links to app: Android, iPad, iPod touch & iPhone
Watch a video:
Nutty Numbers
With its bright, playful interface, this app is probably most suitable for early-years pupils. It enables them to practise basic calculations such as addition, multiplication, doubling and halving. Questions have multiple choice answers, which may increase pupils' temptation to guess, but the rewards and positive reinforcement should appeal to young children.
Links to app: iPad, iPod touch & iPhone; iPad, iPod touch & iPhone (Free version)
Watch a video:
Mathemagics - Mental Math Tricks
This app provides brief lessons which teach tricks for performing various mathematical calculations without a calculator - how to multiply larger numbers, for example. Pupils can also use Mathemagics to practice what they have learned. It has a clear, intuitive interface.
Links to app: iPad, iPod touch & iPhone
10! - Arithmetic Puzzle Game
Beneath a rather dated interface, this simple app has some important features. Users have to get a question right before continuing (hints are available) and must be able to use BIDMAS to correctly answer questions on higher difficulty levels. There is a “easy” mode for beginners who are unfamiliar with multiplication and division, but even on this level considerable speed and accuracy are required to get a good grade!
Links to app: Android
For a maths teacher's opinion on the use of calculators and the importance of mental arithmetic, turn to page 31 of our latest online magazine.