Review based on:

After discovering this tool on MathTools I wanted to use it to find out more about the reflective properties of ellipses.

Appropriate for:

introduction to a concept, applications of a concept or technique

Other Comments:

The tool "teaches" only one concept, but it is great as a motivator into a further understanding of the reflective properties of conic sections. (That is not to say that this can be used as an example of a "real-world" situation where math is effective—what I am claiming is that the tool simply shows something flashy about math.)

What math does one need to know to use the resource?

None. It just gets richer if you know more about geometry, algebra, calculus, and physics.

What hardware expertise does one need to learn to use the resource?

If you got to this website, you can use the tool. It's not complicated.

What extra things must be done to make it work?

The link redirects you to the main page, so you have to find the link to the ellipse pool game.

How hard was it for you to learn?

Very Easy

Explanation:

Even if you couldn't read the directions for some reason, a few clicks will make it obvious how the program works. You just point in the direction of the cue and click.

Ability to meet my goals:

Very Effective

Recommended for:

Geometry: History of geometry, Construction and loci, Modeling and applications
Algebra II: Conic sections
Trigonometry: Vectors, Parametric Equations
Calculus: Param., Polar, & Vector Fcns., Derivative at a Point, Applications of Derivatives