Best Programming Environment for Algebra

[Seema]

This year I incorporated a simple input/output programming component into my Math 9 Algebra unit.  Students are expected to create algebraic equations in the unit, which they put into their programs.

I used Python, and was wondering if there was something else out there that was a little flashier, easy to learn and of course free.  Most of the kids loved it, but there were some that didn't and I think it might be because of the text/command line based environment.

I'm wondering if a different Programming environment will help make this unit more enjoyable for more people.

I looked into Alice, but there is a bit of a learning curve and it isn't really what I'm looking for.  I basically want the students to ask the user for input, and then provide output based on calculations.

Thanks.