Subject Area: Mathematics - Fractions
Grade Level: Grade 7
Source: http://www.learnalberta.ca/content/mejhm/html/video_interactives/fractions/fractionsSmall.html
Description of Multimedia Learning Object: The learning object that I would utilize is this website that introduces fractions. This link has a video and an interactive activity. The video explains how fractions are used in our daily lives and why it is important to understand fractions. The interactive activity is a great tool for the students to work through so they can practice and understand how fractions work.
Description of Integration Idea: I would use this site’s video to help me introduce fractions to my grade 7 students. The video would help students understand how we use fractions on a regular basis. As a class we would then discuss the importance of fractions and how they apply fractions to their daily lives. Once the students have a good grasp on fractions I would ask them to work through the activity that is provided on the website.
Planning and Preparation: Firstly, I would book the computer lab to ensure that there were enough computers for each student. I would make sure that every computer had the multimedia software (QuickTime) that is needed to run the video on the website. Before class I would check to see if the website working properly so there is no confusion during class time. If this particular link were not working I would have another interactive activity ready to share with the class, for example a lesson using the smart board. During this activity I would walk around the classroom to ensure that all students understand how fractions work and what there purpose is. Once the students finished the video and the activity I would have a short worksheet for them to complete. This will help me keep track of who truly worked through the video and activity.
Subject General Learner Outcome: Develop number sense
Subject Specific Learner Outcome: Demonstrate an understanding of adding and subtracting positive fractions and mixed numbers, with like and unlike denominators, concretely, pictorially, and symbolically
ICT Outcome:
C1: Students will access, use and communicate information from a variety of technologies
3.3 access and operate multimedia applications and technologies from stand-alone and online sources
3.4 access and retrieve information through the electronic network
F1: Students will demonstrate an understanding of the nature of technology
3.1 demonstrate an understanding that information can be transmitted through a variety of media
F6: Students will demonstrate a basic understanding of the operating skills required in a variety of technologies 3.1 connect and use audio, video and digital equipment
Monday, November 5, 2007
Sunday, October 28, 2007
Internet Safety
As internet becomes more accessible in schools and homes internet safety becomes a huge issue. The internet is a great resource for students, teachers, and parents when used appropriately and safely. In schools, teachers need to take the necessary precautions to ensure that students are being responsible and are only accessing the proper information from the internet. Rules and guidelines need to be established by the school, teachers and students. I believe that the students should be involved in this process these so that all of the teachers and students are fully aware of these rules and the consequences they will face if these rules are not followed.
Instead of letting the students search the internet for the correct answers or the appropriate research, teachers should provide the students with websites that will be helpful for them to complete the assignment. Students should always be supervised when using the internet. If they are always being supervised it will make it difficult for the students to use inappropriate websites in school and at home.
Sadly, we live in a society where internet safety will always be a concern. We must always be aware of these concerns and address them, as they become an issue.
Instead of letting the students search the internet for the correct answers or the appropriate research, teachers should provide the students with websites that will be helpful for them to complete the assignment. Students should always be supervised when using the internet. If they are always being supervised it will make it difficult for the students to use inappropriate websites in school and at home.
Sadly, we live in a society where internet safety will always be a concern. We must always be aware of these concerns and address them, as they become an issue.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
Spreadsheets
I have realized that spreadsheets are a great tool for both teachers and students. I think a great activity that would incorporate the use of a spreadsheet would be tracking stocks. Each students would be given $10 000 to buy into as many stocks as they would like. Every week, the students would tract and record their stocks progress on a spreadsheet. On the spreadsheet they would record the stocks they purchased, how much they spent on each stock, the progress of their stocks over a two month period, and finally calculate how much they made on each stock and their overall sum. The teacher could also ask the students to create a graph that shows the progress of their stocks using excel. This would be a great opportunity for students to learn about stocks and how they work.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Discussion Boards
I think there are many positive aspects to using discussion boards in classrooms and with students. Discussion boards force students to gather, research, and learn information on their own. Posting information on discussion boards allow students to gain knowledge from peers and share knowledge with other peers. Students can learn from each other outside of the classroom setting, bringing together students with common interests. Discussion boards also provide the opportunity for peer tutoring; students can teach and help one another with concepts and topics they are struggling with. This gives the students an opportunity to write more frequently which will then develop their writing skills even further. Research also shows that students put more effort into their writing if people other than the teacher will read it. Lastly, it provides flexibility for the students to think, and respond to other comments and discussions posted by other peers during their own time.
However, there is a down side to discussion boards. A facilitator, to ensure that all conversations are appropriate, must monitor the discussions between students. Students may use the discussion board as a social means instead of using it for educational purposes. Also, discussion boards make it difficult for teachers to monitor the resources being used by the students. They take away from personal interaction between each of the students and the students and teacher. Therefore, there is no verbal communication between either of them, and all comments and feedback would be by online communication. My last concern with discussion boards is that not all students have access to computers and this will make it difficult for the student to participate in online discussions.
Five ways to enhance classroom interactions using discussion boards
1. Students can communicate with each other if they need help with a particular concept (peer tutoring)
2. Students who do not usually voice there opinion during class time because they do not feel comfortable doing so, can voice their opinion using a discussion board
3. Ensure that there is a facilitator to monitor and guide discussions in the right direction
4. Teacher could provide examples of interesting and educational thread topics. The students could then go from there and continue with that thread
5. Teachers could communicate with colleagues to find out what is working in their classrooms; rules, lesson, discussions, etc.
However, there is a down side to discussion boards. A facilitator, to ensure that all conversations are appropriate, must monitor the discussions between students. Students may use the discussion board as a social means instead of using it for educational purposes. Also, discussion boards make it difficult for teachers to monitor the resources being used by the students. They take away from personal interaction between each of the students and the students and teacher. Therefore, there is no verbal communication between either of them, and all comments and feedback would be by online communication. My last concern with discussion boards is that not all students have access to computers and this will make it difficult for the student to participate in online discussions.
Five ways to enhance classroom interactions using discussion boards
1. Students can communicate with each other if they need help with a particular concept (peer tutoring)
2. Students who do not usually voice there opinion during class time because they do not feel comfortable doing so, can voice their opinion using a discussion board
3. Ensure that there is a facilitator to monitor and guide discussions in the right direction
4. Teacher could provide examples of interesting and educational thread topics. The students could then go from there and continue with that thread
5. Teachers could communicate with colleagues to find out what is working in their classrooms; rules, lesson, discussions, etc.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Rocks - Grade 3 Science
This concept map allowed me to organize my ideas in a structured manner before I jumped into the activity. I find it easier to organize my ideas first, then research the material in an ordered fashion. I believe this will help students stay on task and organize their ideas in a structured format.
This activity is targeted for students in grade 3 science. The students will be allowed to work in pairs or individually. The students will be asked to research the three different kinds of rocks: igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic. Each pair of students will work with inspiration to make a concept map much like the one I provided, including text and images. They will be asked to research how each rock type is formed and then describe and classify rocks based on properties such as, lustre, colour, and texture. I will provide rocks for them to classify and describe.
I believe that this would be a great activity, because it allows students to research information on their own, using technology while interacting with peers. This is a great hands-on activity that will engage students in the learning process.
General Outcomes:
C1 1.1 access and retrieve appropriate information from electronic sources for a specific inquiry
1.2 process information from more than one source to retell what has been discovered
P2 1.1 Read information from a prepared database
P3 1.1 Access images, such as clip art, to support communication
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Lesson planning and the Internet
Title: Simple Machines
Resources:
The Franklin Institute. (n.d.). Simple machines. Retrieved September 29, 2007, from http://www.fi.edu/qa97/spotlight3/spotlight3.html
Science Lessons. (1998). Simple machines learning site. Retrieved September 29, 2007, from http://www.coe.uh.edu/archive/science/science_lessons/scienceles1/finalhome.htm
Huddle, C. (n.d.). Simple machines: Lessons plans. Retrieved September 29, 2007, from http://www.grc.nasa.gov/WWW/K-12/Summer_Training/KaeAvenueES/Resource_Chart.html
Edheads. (2007). Edheads: Activate your mind. Retrieved September 29, 2007, from www.edheads.com
Subject: Science
Grade: 4
Description:
Each student will investigate and understand what a simple machine is, and identify the six simple machines. They will use a computer and the Internet to complete a scavenger hunt based on the student worksheet. This worksheet will guide them to particular websites to answer the following questions.
1. What is a simple machine?
2. How does a simple machine work?
3. Name the 6 types of simple machines.
Once the students have completed the scavenger hunt I will ask them to visit EdHeads and click on simple machines then start. This website is an interactive tool that will allow the students to explore how simple machines work in our society. For example, the toilet paper on a roller is an example of a wheel and axel and the explanation as to why it is an example of this is provided. The students will then find examples of each simple machine that we use in our daily lives.
General Outcomes:
4-6 Students will demonstrate a practical understanding of simple machines by identifying devices in which energy is transferred to produce motion.
Specific Outcomes:
Students will:
- Compare the wheel and the roller and identify examples where each are used
- Demonstrate and identify ways to use a lever that:
o Applies a small force to create a large force
o Applies a small movement to create a large movement
- Predict how changes in the size of a lever or the position of the fulcrum will affect the forces and movements involved
- Identify simple machines used at home or school
ICT Curriculum Outcomes and Goals:
C1. Students will access, use and communicate information from a variety of technologies.
2.1 access and retrieve appropriate information from the Internet by using a specific search path or from the given uniform resource locations (URLS)
C5. Students will use technology to aid in collaboration during inquiry.
2.1 retrieve data from available storage devices, such as a shared folder, to which a group has contributed
2.2 record group brainstorming, planning and sharing of ideas by using inspiration program
C7. Students will use electronic research techniques to construct personal knowledge and meaning
2.2 use selected presentation tools to demonstrate connections among various pieces of information
F3. Students will demonstrate a moral and ethical approach to the use of technology
2.1 comply with the acceptable use of policy of the school and school authority for Internet and networked services, including software licensing agreement
P5. Students will navigate and create hyperlinked resources
2.2 navigate through a document that contains links to locate, copy and then paste data in a new file
Rationale
I believe that when students are actively participating in their own learning process they learn the material better. Using technology and the Internet allows students to explore these websites and find the information needed to complete the assignment on their own, working at their own pace. The interactive website provided allows students to apply what they learned by answering the questions asked on the website. This will engage students and keep their interest while learning curriculum-based information.
Resources:
The Franklin Institute. (n.d.). Simple machines. Retrieved September 29, 2007, from http://www.fi.edu/qa97/spotlight3/spotlight3.html
Science Lessons. (1998). Simple machines learning site. Retrieved September 29, 2007, from http://www.coe.uh.edu/archive/science/science_lessons/scienceles1/finalhome.htm
Huddle, C. (n.d.). Simple machines: Lessons plans. Retrieved September 29, 2007, from http://www.grc.nasa.gov/WWW/K-12/Summer_Training/KaeAvenueES/Resource_Chart.html
Edheads. (2007). Edheads: Activate your mind. Retrieved September 29, 2007, from www.edheads.com
Subject: Science
Grade: 4
Description:
Each student will investigate and understand what a simple machine is, and identify the six simple machines. They will use a computer and the Internet to complete a scavenger hunt based on the student worksheet. This worksheet will guide them to particular websites to answer the following questions.
1. What is a simple machine?
2. How does a simple machine work?
3. Name the 6 types of simple machines.
Once the students have completed the scavenger hunt I will ask them to visit EdHeads and click on simple machines then start. This website is an interactive tool that will allow the students to explore how simple machines work in our society. For example, the toilet paper on a roller is an example of a wheel and axel and the explanation as to why it is an example of this is provided. The students will then find examples of each simple machine that we use in our daily lives.
General Outcomes:
4-6 Students will demonstrate a practical understanding of simple machines by identifying devices in which energy is transferred to produce motion.
Specific Outcomes:
Students will:
- Compare the wheel and the roller and identify examples where each are used
- Demonstrate and identify ways to use a lever that:
o Applies a small force to create a large force
o Applies a small movement to create a large movement
- Predict how changes in the size of a lever or the position of the fulcrum will affect the forces and movements involved
- Identify simple machines used at home or school
ICT Curriculum Outcomes and Goals:
C1. Students will access, use and communicate information from a variety of technologies.
2.1 access and retrieve appropriate information from the Internet by using a specific search path or from the given uniform resource locations (URLS)
C5. Students will use technology to aid in collaboration during inquiry.
2.1 retrieve data from available storage devices, such as a shared folder, to which a group has contributed
2.2 record group brainstorming, planning and sharing of ideas by using inspiration program
C7. Students will use electronic research techniques to construct personal knowledge and meaning
2.2 use selected presentation tools to demonstrate connections among various pieces of information
F3. Students will demonstrate a moral and ethical approach to the use of technology
2.1 comply with the acceptable use of policy of the school and school authority for Internet and networked services, including software licensing agreement
P5. Students will navigate and create hyperlinked resources
2.2 navigate through a document that contains links to locate, copy and then paste data in a new file
Rationale
I believe that when students are actively participating in their own learning process they learn the material better. Using technology and the Internet allows students to explore these websites and find the information needed to complete the assignment on their own, working at their own pace. The interactive website provided allows students to apply what they learned by answering the questions asked on the website. This will engage students and keep their interest while learning curriculum-based information.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Technology Integration
Technology has come a long way since the advent of Apple II computers. Individuals have used technology for simple tasks such as word processing, accounting, and e-mail. Society as a whole has progressed with the use of technology as it becomes increasingly more accessible and sophisticated. Technology, in a basic sense, is for people to access information and to communicate. Technology in the classrooms is being utilized to not only communicate and access information but to enhance student learning.
Teachers explore concepts with the use of technology such as web searches, smart boards, and interactive websites. An excellent use of technology is the smart board, students may interact with what they are learning. In math, where students are learning fractions, students may go up and use the smart board as if it were a blackboard to manipulate numbers or objects. They may also assemble electrical circuits in science with use of smart boards. Hands-on activities can be implemented by use of the internet and smart board technologies.
One of the problems with technology in the classroom is when the teacher has not fully understood the use of technology and the richness of learning it can provide. An example of this would be using computers as a time filler, where students simply play games or "surf the net". These are not useful or enriching activities that would enhance what students are learning in terms of a specific curriculum areas. Technology has so much more to offer students in terms of their learning in a variety of subject areas. Good use of technology looks at cross-curricular activities and does not focus specifically on one content area.
Some of the barriers to technology integration would include a teacher/teachers with limited knowledge of technology and no, or limited, expertise in a particular school. A further complication with technology integration is that teachers must be aware of the age and knowledge required to truly enhance student learning. Teachers must have the necessary skills to teach students how to use technology to assist in their learning rather than to simply use technology. Finally, technology integration is only possible if it is hands-on, meaning that there is enough equipment for students to work independently. However, without continued technological and financial support, technology and subsequent learning would stagnate.
Teachers explore concepts with the use of technology such as web searches, smart boards, and interactive websites. An excellent use of technology is the smart board, students may interact with what they are learning. In math, where students are learning fractions, students may go up and use the smart board as if it were a blackboard to manipulate numbers or objects. They may also assemble electrical circuits in science with use of smart boards. Hands-on activities can be implemented by use of the internet and smart board technologies.
One of the problems with technology in the classroom is when the teacher has not fully understood the use of technology and the richness of learning it can provide. An example of this would be using computers as a time filler, where students simply play games or "surf the net". These are not useful or enriching activities that would enhance what students are learning in terms of a specific curriculum areas. Technology has so much more to offer students in terms of their learning in a variety of subject areas. Good use of technology looks at cross-curricular activities and does not focus specifically on one content area.
Some of the barriers to technology integration would include a teacher/teachers with limited knowledge of technology and no, or limited, expertise in a particular school. A further complication with technology integration is that teachers must be aware of the age and knowledge required to truly enhance student learning. Teachers must have the necessary skills to teach students how to use technology to assist in their learning rather than to simply use technology. Finally, technology integration is only possible if it is hands-on, meaning that there is enough equipment for students to work independently. However, without continued technological and financial support, technology and subsequent learning would stagnate.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Blogging...What's that?!
Hello! I guess I will start by introducing myself. My name is Ashley Platt and I must say that I am new to this whole blogging concept. I was born and raised here in Lethbridge, Alberta and can't wait until I graduate so that I can explore this fascinating world. I love the thought of travelling and being able to experience new cultures. What else can I say...the most important things in my life is my family, my dog, sports, and my soon-to-be career. I have always been extremely active and love to play volleyball, fastball, ringette, and golf. Volleyball, is my all time favourite sport and I have played competitively for a number of years. I have always envisioned myself becoming a teacher and now that I am in the Faculty of Education my dream will soon become reality.
When I found out that our assignment was to create our own blog I figured that I was hooped. First of all, I had no clue what a blog was and I thought to myself "how in the world is this a useful classroom teaching tool"? My second thought was "how am I going to do this on my own" since I am not very knowledgeable when it comes to technology. But to my surprise, it was very easy to get started. After many hours of researching what a blog is ,I now realize how important it is to integrate this aspect of technology into our classrooms since it is being utilized so frequently in our society. Blogging has many functions and is one way to incorporate and encourage the use of technology within the classroom. It serves as a communication tool for teachers, students, and parents that is quick, easy, and effective. It is a simple way for teachers to organize and maintain student work which makes it easy to keep track of student writing progress throughout the school year. Students may also find blogging as a valuable learning tool. It's a great opportunity for fellow peers to read and respond to student's work which is an effective way to improve student's reading and writing.
So far, I have only focused on the positive aspects of blogging. Even though there are many great ways of integrating blogging into the teaching profession I believe there are also some concerns that people (teachers, students, and parents) must be aware of. First of all, parents must give permission in order for their students to participate in blogging. Without this permission blogging should not be allowed within the classroom. Teacher/student/parent relationships may be negatively affected because it eliminates the personal interactions between them. Personal blogs may be accessed by anyone searching the worldwide web, it is not restricted to the teacher, parents, and peers. Students must be careful to not include any personal information about themselves or anyone else. They must also take into consideration the content of their blog to ensure that they are not abusing the use of blogging by bullying peers. Taking these concerns into consideration, I believe, that blogging can be an effective teaching tool if it is used properly. The appropriate steps must be taken to ensure student safety and to ensure teacher/student/parent relationships continue to build.
When I found out that our assignment was to create our own blog I figured that I was hooped. First of all, I had no clue what a blog was and I thought to myself "how in the world is this a useful classroom teaching tool"? My second thought was "how am I going to do this on my own" since I am not very knowledgeable when it comes to technology. But to my surprise, it was very easy to get started. After many hours of researching what a blog is ,I now realize how important it is to integrate this aspect of technology into our classrooms since it is being utilized so frequently in our society. Blogging has many functions and is one way to incorporate and encourage the use of technology within the classroom. It serves as a communication tool for teachers, students, and parents that is quick, easy, and effective. It is a simple way for teachers to organize and maintain student work which makes it easy to keep track of student writing progress throughout the school year. Students may also find blogging as a valuable learning tool. It's a great opportunity for fellow peers to read and respond to student's work which is an effective way to improve student's reading and writing.
So far, I have only focused on the positive aspects of blogging. Even though there are many great ways of integrating blogging into the teaching profession I believe there are also some concerns that people (teachers, students, and parents) must be aware of. First of all, parents must give permission in order for their students to participate in blogging. Without this permission blogging should not be allowed within the classroom. Teacher/student/parent relationships may be negatively affected because it eliminates the personal interactions between them. Personal blogs may be accessed by anyone searching the worldwide web, it is not restricted to the teacher, parents, and peers. Students must be careful to not include any personal information about themselves or anyone else. They must also take into consideration the content of their blog to ensure that they are not abusing the use of blogging by bullying peers. Taking these concerns into consideration, I believe, that blogging can be an effective teaching tool if it is used properly. The appropriate steps must be taken to ensure student safety and to ensure teacher/student/parent relationships continue to build.
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