games and simulations
This first simulation is from the Gizmos website. It uses a number line to demonstrate how to add and subtract positive and negative integers. This is concept that many of my students have difficulty with because they misapply integer rules for multiplication and division. This simulation does what pretty much what I do on my interactive whiteboard, but it does so in a more professional looking display. It is definitely a tool I will be adding.
Another tool that ties directly to the way I teach my students is this one on solving percent problems from the National Library of Virtual Manipulatives (NLVM). It uses the concept of proportions, which is helpful for students because one method can be used to solve any of the three types of percent problems. It adds a visual element, but it has a couple of features that could be improved upon. Regardless, it is must have tool to support teaching this concept.
I reviewed a lot of simulations looking for ones that would work well for my students and this was one of the last ones I reviewed. I am glad I didn't settle on some earlier ones because it was worth the wait. Often times, my students ask for basic multiplication help. This PhET simulation will provide that help. I really like all the options it provides to assist students in developing their basic multiplication skills at their own pace.
This final simulation was from the Science Kids website. It appealed to me for two main reasons: It dealt with mean, median and mode (a subject my students need help on) and it helps to develop the type of computer skills that are used on the GED 2014 test. It could be tweaked a little to have a little more variety and better used as a review tool than a teaching tool. Still, it is one that will benefit my students.
online math resources
STANDARD
CCSS.Math.Practice.MP5 Use appropriate tools strategically. CCSS.Math.Content.8.G.A.5 Use informal arguments to establish facts about the angle sum of triangles. CCSS.Math.Content.3.MD.B.3 Draw a scaled bar graph to represent a data set with several categories. CCSS.Math.Practice.MP4 Model with mathematics. CCSS.Math.Content.6.SP.B.4 Display numerical data in dot plots, histograms, box plots and stem and leaf plots. CCSS.Math.Content.HSS.MD.B.7 Analyze decisions and strategies using probability concepts. |
USAGE
Many math problems can be solved with a standard calculator, but that still requires students to utilize formulas correctly. If the goal is to problem solve, using specific calculators can eliminate frustrations. The interactive triangle can be used to discover the angle sum theorem of triangles or, more generally, the relationship between the length of sides and the opposite angles measurements. The graphing tools display nicely on an interactive whiteboard for conducting whole group lessons. Using online resources to create graphs also is a time saver and reduces students' frustration if they are not very artistic. The Monty Hall problem is a classic statistical strategy game that can teach students about random events and probability. The Deal or No Deal game can help develop probability and reasoning skills. It can be used for play by multiple students at a time in order to develop a strategy to maximize your winnings. Probability Plinko provides good practice on calculating probability while applying probability-based thinking to determining where to place your chip. |
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES