Last week before the study break. Walk into class and see... games! Fabulous. This class was all about interactive math tasks. Right away my mind began to race, wondering how I could make my future students as excited as I was about playing math games. The idea of adding some friendly competition to the classroom in the form of interactive math tasks is the perfect way to not only monitor and ensure comprehension, but also allow students to explore and (gasp) really enjoy math. To kick off this class, we played various games in partners.
The first task proved a little more difficult than anticipated. This task in particular proved that seemingly simple tasks may require more brainpower than you think - another great example of how making math fun can enable higher learning.
The first portion of class flew by as we explored all types of tasks covering all types of topics including place value, fractions, and probability to name a few. As with most approaches to teaching, the workshop model does present some interesting benefits and challenges. To summarize my thoughts, I have constructed a graphic organizer.
I think the workshop model is great for students if, of course, it is executed correctly. The various games and tasks should be simple enough for students to figure out in a few minutes as they read through the instruction page. Each task should incorporate a specific concept learned in class and the activity should serve as fun way for the students to demonstrate their understanding. The teacher would circulate as the students play and advise or answer any questions that may arise.
The challenges associated with the workshop model, although few, are more significant. My table-mates and I discussed numerous challenges and concluded that younger students would require more supervision and structure with their activities. The time allotted at each station would likely have to be monitored and moving between stations would require more time and guidance. We figured that the workshop would work well at the end of a unit to ensure comprehension and act as a review - if not, all students may not be able to complete the games. The games would also have to be fairly simple in nature to allow maximum playing time.
As with anything, balance is also key. It is important to incorporate fun in learning; however, concepts must still be taught. Although not every day may be as fun as another, it does not mean that math lessons can't be engaging and effective.
To finish off the class, we enjoyed another math picture book. Once again, this story time demonstrated the cross-curricular tie with English Language Arts. Instead of having the book read aloud, we actually viewed it online as it was narrated! My thoughts: great! Even if I have a cold and lose my voice, my students can still enjoy a math book read aloud in class. Once again, modern technology has exceeded my expectations. Speaking of technology, I am still amazed at the endless possibilities presented by the Smart Board. From lessons to virtual games, these boards will be a fantastic asset to my future classroom. Hooray!
P.S See my "read more" section for responses to last week's post!
The challenges associated with the workshop model, although few, are more significant. My table-mates and I discussed numerous challenges and concluded that younger students would require more supervision and structure with their activities. The time allotted at each station would likely have to be monitored and moving between stations would require more time and guidance. We figured that the workshop would work well at the end of a unit to ensure comprehension and act as a review - if not, all students may not be able to complete the games. The games would also have to be fairly simple in nature to allow maximum playing time.
As with anything, balance is also key. It is important to incorporate fun in learning; however, concepts must still be taught. Although not every day may be as fun as another, it does not mean that math lessons can't be engaging and effective.
To finish off the class, we enjoyed another math picture book. Once again, this story time demonstrated the cross-curricular tie with English Language Arts. Instead of having the book read aloud, we actually viewed it online as it was narrated! My thoughts: great! Even if I have a cold and lose my voice, my students can still enjoy a math book read aloud in class. Once again, modern technology has exceeded my expectations. Speaking of technology, I am still amazed at the endless possibilities presented by the Smart Board. From lessons to virtual games, these boards will be a fantastic asset to my future classroom. Hooray!
P.S See my "read more" section for responses to last week's post!
To answer your question about Scribd... I am not completely sure how it works! There are various media options that Weebly allows you to add to your blog, and when you select "Document" it comes up as Scribd. I create the document in Microsoft Word and then upload through this feature. Not sure if that is the correct way to use this feature but it works!