Mathermaths is a set of two tapes containing four maths programs covering addition, subtraction, multiplication and division for an age range of 5 to 11 years.

Each of the four programs contains a wide range of options in terms of difficulty and approach to each of the four operations, and there's a successful attempt to make learning fun by combining the questions with stimulating games. The various options are menu-driven and each option can be exited by pressing escape. In addition to the tests there is a demonstration mode which shows how the game is played.

The addition program is based upon a game where the player has to beat a monster to a treasure chest at the bottom of a mine. Subtraction is a complex game where coloured balls have to be caught in cups or nets.

Multiplication features a grid within which a fly is trapped, while Division centres around a game where balloons have to be won and burst.

Each program shows the correct answer or hints if a wrong answer is given and the more complex questions require each stage of the calculation to be entered. My main complaint here was that the instructions weren't clear as to what the program wanted entering for each step of the solution. However, by watching the demonstration it soon became clear what was required.

Each program gives six levels of difficulty and a demonstration can be requested for each level. The programs combine good teaching with entertainment and pupils won't tire easily of their lesson.

J.D.