Smart teaching systems offer a way for schools to meet the challenges of providing instruction to students with a diverse range of abilities, interests and needs. AnimalWatch is an intelligent computer based tutor that provides individualized math instruction for 9-12 year olds. Math word problems are integrated into narratives about endangered species, to engage student interest and help students appreciate the value of learning math. Student motivation and self confidence in math ability are fostered through the selection of problems that provide challenge and the availability of help features that are tailored to students� individual learning styles. An accompanying web site allows teachers to download all or parts of the tutor, and provides curriculum information and discussion boards. Authoring tools available at the web site allow teachers to contribute their own word problems and to create their own AnimalWatch adventures

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