Next we were asked to look at the components of the generic skill for this review and determine how the procedure was presented – a set of steps. We agreed that all the math problems or objectives were presented in a step by step procedure that needed to be followed in order so greater benefit can be obtained. We agreed that the students need to learn what a factor and a product was first, so they could undo the distributive property. We agreed that all the math problems presented in this website were presented in a way of a procedure since basic math skills need to be attained before they go into higher level of thinking problems. Finally we agreed that the basic skills help students acquire generic skills that can be implemented in other subject areas.
For the third question, we after reviewing the coolmath.com website, we agreed that the attitude toward the website remained positive for all of us. Lauren stated, "While it did not change my affective attitude about algebra, in general, in did change my affective attitude or beliefs about working on math via an interactive website." As far as behavioral aspects of attitude, we agreed that the website gives students good habits of algebra and helps them to learn the basics and use them as building blocks for later fundaments of algebra. This definitely gives a positive behavioral attitude on the website since it is accomplishing the purpose of helping students improve in algebra discreetly, without having to get after school tutoring from a teacher.
After the discussion, I decided to research some other math websites to see if the content was valuable enough to share. I found in an article by Linda Lindroth, where she says, "Whether you decide to create a simple search or a robust investigation, your students are almost guaranteed to be excited about a math scavenger hunt." (Lindroth, 2007) That sounded like fun, so I checked it out. In her article she links a scholastic website that I found especially interesting. The link is Math Hunt www.teacher.scholastic.com/mathhunt. I also found that key math topics are integrated into these science and social studies topics. That was very fun and entertaining, even at my age. She also links the reader to another hunt website called Adventures of cyberbee at http://www.cyberbee.com/hunts.html. I found that to be fun and educational too. At www.vickiblackwell.com, I found some more fun hunts, not just math but social studies and science too. This was fun! Finally, with my own prior knowledge I thought of a way to incorporate technology into the classroom with QR codes and the internet. As a teacher, you could find Teachertube videos or websites and link them to the codes. Then you could cut and paste the codes onto the student's homework or quiz reviews. The students could either scan the QR code or enter the shortened url to find the information they need to complete the review or homework. For the students who need more, you could ask them to do the creating for the next chapter or unit. They could find the videos, create the questions, and create the shortened urls and QR codes. That sounds like fun.
Also if you are thinking that the internet and QR codes are too advanced for earlier elementary grades, think again. Sesame Workshop, the nonprofit organization behind "Sesame Street," last week announced the creation of the Joan Ganz Cooney Center an independent research center that will explore how digital media can help children learn. The center, will focus on the needs of elementary-age children, exploring the role of new platforms such as Web, cellphones, and video games in literacy development in and out of school. (Bradley, 2007)
Do any of you use specific websites to reinforce skills you have taught in your classroom? Do you use QR codes? Would you use QR codes if you knew how? If you wouldn't use them, why not?
Bradley, A. (2007). New Center to Explore Role of Digital Media in Learning. Education Week, 27(15), 5.
Lindroth, L. (2007). How To... Create and Use a Math Scavenger Hunt. Teaching Pre K-8, 37(4), 25.
Kimber the websites you provided were great ideas. I enjoyed that the fun hunts required students to search for the answer, give the students a place to find the answer, and then let the student answer.
ReplyDeleteI usually have problems trying to find good websites to back up my lessons since the class I teach is recognized by TEA as an innovative course meaning it does not follow TEKS. I have started to believe that maybe that is the reason why I don't find websites or multimedia I can use to support my lessons. I enjoy integrating technology into my lessons, yet I find it difficult finding resouces. I have found one or two topics on brainpop.com and very good videos on youtube.com, however, I need to verify the validity of the source and make sure it is an accurate support.
It would also be awesome to be able to incorporate QR codes even in elementary classrooms, the Sesame Workshop sounds great! I don't think we should ever underestimate students, not a good practice. I always expect the very best from them and have found out they work better this way and they surprise me most of the time. The reason why I don't use QR codes, besides the main reason been that I don't know how to use them, is that my students always have the excuse of not having the resources to complete such tasks. And I am using the word excuse because I know that many do have, yet since they know that not all have access to such devices they will use it as an excuse. My school was awarded this coming school year a grant that will provide iPads to all students so now they will have access to great opportunities such as QR codes. I eager to see them in action!
Becky, that is awesome about the iPads. I have two in my classroom and they are amazing tools to reinforce the skills we are learning every day. I love them. I personally use the QR codes to take data in my classroom, just an idea. The technology doesn't have to be used directly with the kids. I also embed the QR codes into my parent letters. They are usually sign up sheets I have created and the parents can go online and sign up. Just another idea. It lets the parents know you are tech savvy and they all think its awesome.
DeleteThanks Kimber for these ideas!
DeleteGreat job Kimber!! You're resources for math scavenger hunts are great and will definitely help the kids learn as well as keeping them entertained. In the research provided by Merriam for Discussion 10, she discussed the validity of internet resources and these definitely pass the test as they are educational, useful, and not simply providing "babysitting" for the students. The students are learning in a way that is fun for them, and in my opinion, that is the best way to learn! A child engaged learns and retains so much more information than one that is bored and just going through the motions. I love the quote you found in that article! Scavenger hunts are definitely fun for students, as well as adults. They have students actively engaged, getting exercise as they move around, and learning in the process as they solve riddles. With the lack of space and lack or resources teachers have, virtual scavenger hunts are a great idea. And incorporating social studies and science is a great way to teach students the same topic abroad the subjects, helping them to grasp the subject on each different level.
ReplyDeleteI came across the Sesame Workshop before and loved some of the work they have done. Growing up, I loved Sesame Street, and now my 2 year old daughter loves it. I enjoy watching it with her and seeing what all she can learn from it. While television has gotten a bad review in the past for children, they have vamped so many of the cartoons to be like Sesame Street in ways that they teach our students life lessons and educational topics as well.
Hey lauren, another great website is pbskids.org. Today we talked about Earth Day and my kids learned how forest fires can be good and encourage new growth in the forests. They learned this from watching a cartoon on PBSkids.org!!! :) It should be noted it wasn't just the video, it was the teacher (me) pulling from and adding to their schema about forests, fires, and our ecosystems. Then making sure I followed up with questions, to be sure everyone got what I was trying to give them!
DeleteIn my math classroom, I do not use any fun websites such as your scavenger hunt one; it looks amazing though. I have a hard time making time to sit and research all these amazing websites for just one class, I teach 6 different classes this year. For my science class however, I do use Study Island. I absolutely love it! It breaks down all the units; has lessons and even offers virtual science labs. I have been thinking lately that every other week I should incorporate a lab day in all my classes so my students can experience such amazing programs/websites. What I do use in the classroom is mostly on the SmartBoard which offers direct observation for me as a teacher, but it does not offer individualized instruction for students who need the extra help.
ReplyDeleteI have never used QR codes in the classroom. I do use them while shopping though, haha. I think it would be a great innovation to incorporate in the classroom and with homework. I’m sure the first month or so would have to weed out the issues, etc., but would be something I would be interested in doing. If training was ever offered for this specifically, sign me up!