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4 homework apps that are helpful for middle schoolers

When tweens hit middle school, completing homework assignments and keeping work organized becomes more challenging. Instead of one main teacher, middle schoolers now have multiple teachers with different expectations. With busy after-school schedules, sixth, seventh, and eighth graders may not be sitting down to complete homework or study for upcoming tests until later in the evening. While some middle schools offer homework clubs at the conclusion of the school day, what happens when students need help after hours and parents and caregivers aren’t up on the subject matter?

Sure, there’s Google, but unfortunately, the popular search engine isn’t always the answer, and many teachers frown on the use of Wikipedia. Thankfully, there are middle school homework apps available to help kids untangle the math questions they’re stuck on or uncover the symbolism in a book they’re reading. Here are four of the best homework apps for middle school students to put on the back-to-school list and download.

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Yup — Math Tutoring

Once kids start middle school, most parents are out as far as providing help with math homework. While Yup – Math is not free, the app can be an asset during the school year because math is a trouble spot area for many middle schoolers. Through the Yup — Math app, teachers are available for homework assistance 24/7 and can help tweens and teens with geometry, algebra, and any other mathematical questions. Students can upload a photograph of a particular problem and one of the teachers will provide assistance. Yup — Math offers a free two-week trial and does offer various pricing plans.

Socratic

For homework problems for multiple subjects including science, history, math, and literature, Google’s Socratic is ideal. If students are stuck on certain questions, they can upload an image and Socratic will provide the information to help answer it. Users can find videos, step-by-step directions, and study guides to help answer and understand the homework problems they’re having an issue with. Socratic is free to download.

Quizlet: Learn with Flashcards

Studying for tests in multiple classes can be problematic for middle school students. Quizlet is used by many teachers in class to help students master certain concepts and necessary vocabulary. The free app is also available for download outside of school and is a great study tool. Users can create their own flashcards for an upcoming test or quiz. The app offers study sets in addition to making your own flashcard options. Quizlet is extremely useful for mastering foreign language vocabulary and preparing for vocabulary tests in Language Arts and English classes.

Photomath

Ask middle school students what homework assignments are the most problematic, and math usually comes up. Math becomes difficult for many students in middle school. Instead of struggling with those one or two problems kids just can’t solve on their homework, try Photomath. The app is free to download and does include in-app purchases. Photomath includes a multi-functional scientific calculator and step-by-step directions for solving problems. Multiple explanations allow kids to find the problem-solving solution that works best for them. Like Yup – Math, users can upload a picture of the problem. If you want step-by-step directions for specific homework problems, the premium plan is necessary. For non-subscribers, the problem will still be solved, but not with as much explanation.  Photomath Plus is an upgrade for this app and requires a fee.

Image used with permission by copyright holder

Helpful homework organizational apps for middle school

Moving from elementary school to middle school can be an organizational nightmare for some students. Keeping multiple classes, assignments, due dates, and upcoming tests and quizzes organized can be a trouble spot. Organizational issues often carry over into the classroom. Late assignments, lost homework, and forgetting to study for tests and quizzes impacts grades. Since middle schoolers are often tied to their smartphones, they will be more apt to utilize a digital planner as opposed to the traditional notebook planners. If your middle schooler has difficulty staying organized, these are helpful apps for keeping students on target in their different classes.

Making the transition from elementary school to middle school is a major milestone for tweens. The stepping stone to high school is a pivotal one where sixth, seventh, and eighth-graders learn how to navigate managing multiple courses. As subjects become more difficult, homework questions will pop up. Homework apps designed to help middle and high school students find solutions to difficult problems and study for tests and quizzes should be on the school list.

Math is especially problematic for many students. So, it’s a good idea to have Yup — Math and Photomath in the wheelhouse before homework issues arise. Quizlet is a helpful option to assist kids in studying for tests. Apps are also available to help students keep their homework, long-term assignments, and test dates organized. If your tween had difficulty staying organized in elementary school, installing a homework organizing app prior to the start of classes in middle school is prudent. Homework can be challenging for middle schoolers and utilizing homework apps are a practical way to help tweens complete assignments while also gaining an understanding of the concepts. These homework apps don’t just provide answers. The apps provide users with explanations as well and most are free to download.

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Dawn Miller
Dawn Miller began her professional life as an elementary school teacher before returning to her first love, writing. In…
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