The Mind Power Learning Series is a new series from The Learning Company targeted toward middle and high school students, unlike most of their software which is designed for elementary school students. Currently there are two titles in this series, Mind Power Math Middle School and Mind Power Math High School, with a Science title coming soon.

MP Middle School covers the subjects of basic math, geometry, pre-algebra and algebra. Geometry and pre-algebra are presented together, and algebra is split into two units, for a total of four units, each with its own CD. Each unit has several lessons grouped by subject, as in fractions, percents, order of operations, etc., for basic math and quadratic equations, rational numbers, parabolas, and other subjects for algebra. Besides the lessons, there are also exercises for further study.

An animated guide is the host and teaches each lesson, with the aide of various different characters who are the silent participants in the real-world problems used to demonstrate the subject material. These problems are interesting, as well as practical, such as the bridge that lost a section in a bad storm, so needs to have the measurements of the section computed by using algebraic equations, and helping Jamal, who just got signed with a professional team, figure out how much profit he'll actually make from selling his personal brand of basketball shoes after the manufacturing costs are figured in. The lessons in each unit are tied together and deal with the same character's unique problems in a way that builds on each lesson.

The lessons are presented in a tutorial method, but are also interactive, with answers required for some areas before moving on. The concepts are explained in a step-by-step method that is clear and easy to understand. Users can click through them and also move back and forth easily. The lessons deal with basic concepts in a manner designed to help students gain a better grasp of the material they're currently learning, not to take the place of their textbooks.

Unlike many multiple subject programs that are either hodgepodges of previous programs bundled together, or are too broad and try to cover too much material in one program, MP Math has been carefully designed to present math in a logical, clear method for a particular age group. The lessons are easy to understand, and cover the basics very well. The aim of this program is to teach, not to entertain, so there are no cute mini-games or other distractions from the real purpose, although the tutorials are interesting. Most of the lessons are centered on practical applications of math, although I had to laugh at Jamal's sports shoes which supposedly cost $85 to make, which is (1) not true, and (2) reinforces kids' skewed ideas of what retail items like basketball shoes are really worth. Other than that, though, the lessons are centered on solid use of math in our everyday lives.

A great math practice program for serious students, either in school or at home, and one that compares very favorably with similar programs on the market.

Graphics: 7 
The drawings are nice enough, but nothing spectacular.

Sound: 7
Not much sound or music, but this program doesn't need any.

Concept: 7.5 
Multi-subject programs have been done several times before, but this one is above the crowd.

Overall: 8.3
A really good practice and reinforcement tool for math concepts, but one that is directed toward students (or parents) who are serious about learning.