H. H. Beam Math Team

Brite Kids Online

2009-11-15T08:39:00.010-05:00

Brite Kids is a subscription tutorial site that also offers a demo of activities for each grade level. Click on buttons at bottom of screen to scroll through activities.

These are large format for SMARTBOARD use. They include several tutorials including how to compare large numbers and how to complete In and Out Tables.

Explore various grade level topics. For instance, the Decimal Value activity is shown on the 3rd grade list.

Teachers can get a FREE 30 day trial!

Fractions and Decimals on a Number Line

2009-11-07T18:34:00.004-05:00

Worksheets and Activity Lesson for decimals on a number line.

Learning Upgrade Fraction Tutorial and Practice

2009-11-07T09:18:00.002-05:00

Learning Upgrade Demo - Fractions - Tutorial with Mixed Numbers - - -Includes Practice.

Coordinate Graphs Learning Upgrade Demo

2009-11-07T09:15:00.003-05:00

Learning Upgrade Demo - Tutorial and Practice on all four quadrants.

Learning Upgrade

2009-11-07T09:11:00.002-05:00

Mean, Median and Mode

Classroom Tools.Net

2009-09-08T08:27:00.003-04:00

Teacher Tube Tutorial on HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN GAMES!

Mister Teacher.Com

2009-09-08T08:04:00.004-04:00

Mister Teacher gives students and teachers interactive web-based learning activities and mini-movies for SmartBoard use.

What is a SmartBoard mini-movie?

A SmartBoard mini-movie is a simple (most involve only a click of the mouse), interactive animation that teachers can download and add to their galleries. From there, the movies can be inserted into their SMART Notebook presentations. Each mini-movie is a dynamic Flash file, similar to the same files that are already included in SMART Notebook's resources.

How can mini-movies improve my SMARTBoard activities and lessons?

Use mini-movies to make subjects like geometry and motion come alive. Capture the attention of learners by using animation to teach standards-based concepts. Draw on the movies and click the buttons to give students instant feedback!

Here are some of the mini-movies available. Click the link at the top to visit site!

Associative with Addition
Associative with Multiplication
Commutative with Addition
Commutative with Multiplication
Distributive Example 1
Distributive Example 2

Transformations

A Rotation
N Reflection
T Rotation
H Slide
W Slide
T Reflection

Make a Big Number Game

2009-08-02T09:54:00.005-04:00

Reading Rainbow offers a couple of math games.

Saving Energy and Money

2009-07-27T16:29:00.006-04:00

The hard economic times plowed right into the school system this year. In response to the needs of our population, we are not allowed to ask parents for school supplies. We were not given any budget from the county to buy supplies. And, our pay is reduced!

So we've been asked to cut back. It's easy to see that misuse needs to be corrected. For instance, consistently running toilets in the bathroom stands out as a conservation blunder. It's easy to explain to students how the school's water bill is affected by blatant waste. It's easy to understand that FIFO (First in, First out) rules need to be applied to the supply cabinets. But, how do you explain to students that even though the lunch menus are printed in color on glossy paper, we don't have money for pencils? Instead, we are going outside to sit in the dirt and write our math problems in the sand!

Most teachers spend a bundle annually on classroom supplies, books, treats and decorations in response to the needs of their students. Just the cost of purchasing a pencil a day for each child for a single class for a week equals the cost of a dinner on the town . . . and don't forget the cost of a pencil sharpener! A teacher can't say NO! How does a student work without a pencil? We are obliged to supply if we want the child to succeed.

Our county is now pondering the idea of eliminating classroom personal refrigerators and microwaves in response to budget cuts. The mention of more teacher focused restrictions, hardships and limitations added to the dark cloud of reduced staff, increased classroom size, and limited resources only incites more discontent.

So, here are a few jovial thoughts to join the ranks of budget-wise suggestions:

Maybe we could ask the students to only flush poo or every third use!

Or, we could only run the air conditioner between noon and 2 PM!

Or, move all desks to the windows and turn off all the lights!
Or, run computers on a ration system!

Or, serve cold lunches every other day!

Or, vacuum the floors once a week! (Sorry . . . that routine is already in place!)

I'm sure there are many more possibles to save money that put the burden on victims instead of budget creators.

Maybe, I'll stick around long enough to hear some ideas that actually relate to improved learning and promoting teacher confidence.

The Zone - TxCAE

2009-07-21T06:28:00.005-04:00

Texas Education site hosts examples of common assessment pre-tests and post-tests for named objectives. The assessments are limited to a few questions that focus on basic comprehension of objective. Both reading/literary elements and math objectives are available.

Academic Skill Builders

2009-07-16T21:01:00.003-04:00

Arcademic Skill Builders are research-based and standards-aligned educational games that offer an innovative approach to teaching basic academic skills. They incorporate features of arcade games and educational practices into fun online games that will engage, motivate, and teach your students.

Play games for free right here on the site!

Senteo 2.0

2009-01-22T18:36:00.008-05:00

****How to use ASSESSMENT RESULTS in Senteo 2.0!

Math Quizzes and Online Games

2008-11-12T13:21:00.005-05:00

Quizzes by content area and grade level
Online Math Games

Learning Curve

2008-11-11T09:03:00.004-05:00

http://www.learningwave.com/lwonline/workingfront/frontwave.html

Tutorials and Practice Problems

Math Expressions

2008-11-11T05:42:00.007-05:00

Math Expressions offers free online tutorial with videos, examples, and practice.

Math Videos

Animated math videos to help you visualize math ideas better.

Study Tips

Study tips that focus on important math ideas. You will save time by knowing what is necessary.

Practice Questions

Practice questions to help you to build better understanding in math.

Step-by-Step Solutions

Each practice question comes with step-by-step solutions with complete explanations

Math Stories

2008-11-09T09:36:00.003-05:00

Teaching Math with Stories

This article gives excellent examples. How can we make our lessons to teach problem solving more interesting and relevant to 4th and 5th graders?

Turn word problems into good stories and watch the results.

Its guaranteed that the kids won't be bore.

Do your students complain when you give them story or word problems? Are they bored with problems about Susie's garden or Farmer John's harvest or rowboats traveling upstream or downstream? Part of the difficulty lies in the way problems are written.

Most word or story problems are not really stories at all - or at least they're not very good stories. Good stories have interesting characters and plots. They may start with a conflict and build to a climax or, like newspaper stories, they may describe the five W's: Who, What, Where, When and Why.

Grid Paper and Graphics for SmartBoard

2008-10-23T05:57:00.008-04:00

Donna Young.Org donnayoung.org/math/c-grids.htm
offers FREE materials including grid paper, multiplication charts and coordinate grids in several sizes. For example, the ordered pair grids can be printed with one to six per page.

Also find UNIT MULTIPLIERS with information on converting customary measurements, simplifying fractions and more.

2.54 cm = 1 in (memorize this one)
1 cm = 0.3937 in
1 mi = 1.6093 km
1 km = 0.6213 mi
1 yd = 0.9144 m
1 m = 39.3701 in
14.59 kg = 1 slug [mass]
3.78 L = 1 gallon [volume]
3600 seconds (s) = 1 hour (hr)

Wordle

2008-10-18T14:26:00.005-04:00

http://wordle.net/create

Wordle is a graphic generator! You can use the site in a number of ways. One of the easiest is to simply type your word list. Edit options include changing font, color, and layout. This is an example of a graphic created in less than a minute using math vocabulary words.

Visit the site for more ideas. The generator will also find "most used" words from a selected text!

See another blog entry describing use of this tool in a reading lesson!
http://www.boxoftricks.net/?p=103

Week 7

2008-10-18T09:37:00.005-04:00

Review Week

Student's "I CAN" statements for 1st QTR:

I can draw a Place Value Chart from millions to hundredths.
I can complete the Multiplication Grid to the 12's times tables in 5 minutes or less with 80% accuracy.
I can show my work to round correctly with whole numbers and decimals.
I can show my work to compare two decimal numbers with <, >, or =.
I can spell and identify names of common polygons.
I can add and subtract decimals by lining up the decimal point.
I can write the expanded form of numbers using thousands to hundredths.
I can find the perimeter of a regular quadrilateral with missing sides.
I can subtract numbers across zeroes.
I can find the fraction of a set such as 3/5 of 15.
I can solve word problems using clue words such as have left, how much change, total, how many more, each, and combined.

See Week 7 lesson plans.

SmartBoard and Airliner Workshop 10/16/08

2008-10-15T19:04:00.011-04:00

Check out the links below for new SmartBoard Tips!

Lesson Plan and Assessment from Indiana

2008-10-15T06:25:00.004-04:00

Indiana has a very user friendly link to lessons via objectives. Click on the drop down for grade level and choose STANDARD on the right column or COMPLETE RESOURCE.

http://www.indianastandardsresources.org/completeResource.asp?Subject=math&Grade=5

Waldo Maths

2008-10-05T04:58:00.001-04:00

Java Applets for Math Concept Demonstrations:
http://www.waldomaths.com/index1116.jsp

Math Mind - Pacemaker Curriculum

2008-09-28T11:42:00.007-04:00

PDF Files; Units for word problems and computation - supports Pacemaker Curriculum - Click the title link for explanation of chapter topics. Includes Visuals to use on SmartBoard such as number lines, tables, Place Value Charts, etc.

 AnswerKey.pdf          
 Chapter01.pdf          
 Chapter02.pdf         
 Chapter03.pdf         
 Chapter04.pdf         
 Chapter05.pdf         
 Chapter06.pdf         
 Chapter07.pdf           
 Chapter08.pdf         
 Chapter09.pdf          
 Chapter10.pdf          
 Chapter11.pdf           
 Chapter12.pdf           
 Chapter13.pdf         
 Chapter14.pdf         
 Chapter15.pdf         
 Chapter16.pdf          
 Chapter17.pdf          
 Chapter18.pdf           
 TestPrep.pdf          
 Visuals.pdf

Word Problem Strategies at WASL

2008-09-28T10:33:00.005-04:00

Port Angeles, WA edu site - Lists sample word problems by grade levels, with lesson ideas using writing with math problems and answer key.

Mathematics questions contain the following content:

number sense

measurement

geometry

algebraic sense

probability and statistics

logic

strategies

and the following processes:

problem solving

reasoning

communications

connections

Problems presented in the web site are recommended for student use to communicate (in written form) understanding of math content.

SAMPLE 4TH GRADE NUMBER SENSE:

4N-23) 17,26,35,44,53,62,71,80

What numbers less than 100 make eight when the digits are added together? (example 17 is a solution because 1+7=8) Write to help explain your best thinking using words, numbers, or pictures.

Click these links to view Grade 4 questions:

number sense

measurement

geometry

algebraic sense

probability and statistics

logic

strategies
(strategy description)

Click these links to view Grade 5 questions:
Grade 5

number sense

measurement

geometry

algebraic sense

probability and statistics

logic

strategies
(strategy description)

Sensational SmartBoard Sites

2008-09-17T17:17:00.008-04:00

Are you looking for ideas to use on the Smart Board.

Check out these links for downloadable activities.

Smart Board Lessons
Lee's Summit Downloads
Center School District Lessons by Grade Level
ICT in Oxford (UK site) Downloads
Wichita Elementary SMART Lessons (some are Senteo quizzes) *****
Kenton County
Rockingham (links only)
FREEBIES (free activities to download and use on Smart Board including Tic-Tac-Toe board, Wordsearch, and Number Spinner

Whack 'Em Math

2008-09-10T18:16:00.004-04:00

Whack 'Em Math Activities for SmartBoard

Cornerstone Online Activities

2008-09-08T21:32:00.002-04:00

We have Cornerstone available on the Network. While, it has bugs . . . the programs can run as GUEST for whole class demonstration or individual student use at a workstation.

Multiplication Grid

2008-09-08T17:56:00.011-04:00

Teacher Resources

Here is a multiplication grid JAVA applet with a calculator. Use it to show patterns of products. Click the instructions link on the applet for more hints.
Printable Multiplication Grid
Learn how to Lattice!
Lattice Grid Template for SmartBoard or use Napier's Bones Model
Practice Lattice!
Watch a video to multiply decimals with Lattice
Music to learn multiples: MathMosis is a music based number sense instruction tool. Check out the theme song. The site offers a free worksheet generator for customized addition/subtraction or multiplication/division problems. (No answer key though!)
Click here to listen to samples -
http://www.mathmosis.com/music/player.htm

Practice Multiplication Grid Exercises for SmartBoard & Students:

BBC Grid Game
Drag and Drop Fact Match Game
More like the above multiplication game -
Multiplication to 25 (e.g. 5 x 5)
Multiplication to 45 (e.g. 5 x 9)
Multiplication to 81 (e.g. 9 x 9)

FREEBIES and BINGO CARDS

2008-09-01T04:07:00.011-04:00

Homeschool Freebie of the Day - Check this site every day for listing of unique materials free for download.

B I N G O C A R D S

CONGRATULATIONS!

2008-08-07T15:01:00.021-04:00

Congratulations to all the
teachers and staff!

We made AYP and ABC High Growth!

See the link for ABC Growth Formula.

The Olympics

2008-08-06T20:17:00.008-04:00

Quick Links to Some Hidden UK Resources

2008-08-01T04:40:00.017-04:00

Check out this video using juggling as a springboard to variables and related sum patterns.
http://www.teachers.tv/video/21451/stream/wmv/multi/C2271001.wmx

NGFL Teacher Resource Exchange (UK)
Curriculum Units with Teacher Focus Questions (Example: Angles and 2D-3D)
Teacher TV (Search example: KS2 Numeracy) Mathematics List
Teaching Ideas for Primary
Samples of Lessons on Video using SMARTBoard
Three Part Math Lesson (download and unzip) and Using ICT (when unzipped, includes many resources)
Springboard Units for remediation (activities, games, questions)
Index of Games and Support Materials for Springboard Units
List of UK Teacher Tools from COXHOE including SMARTBoard links

Jeopardy Games for SMARTBoard

2008-07-31T17:14:00.021-04:00

Here are links for some jeopardy games to use on SMARTBoard:

List of different game templates

More templates

FractionJeopardy (5th Grade)
GeometryJeopardy(5th Grade)
ITBS Review Jeopardy (6th Grade Math)
Math Jeopardy
Fractions
Basic Math Review
Geometry 4th
Geometry 5th
Math Review
Math 4A
Math 4B
Math 5A
Math 5B
Math 5C
Math 6A
Math 6B
Chapter 4 Jeopardy Review Game (Prime & Composite) and MORE
Theme Three Voc. Jeopardy (5th Grade) Character Traits Words

Play this jeopardy game online! More like this HERE!

And don't forget all the POWERPOINT games aligned to the textbook chapters created by our own CONNIE BURTON!

Donna Young's Information Packed Site

2008-07-31T14:44:00.007-04:00

DonnaYoung.org is filled with printables and resources for homeschoolers with templates for journals, grade books, curriculum planners, and so much more. The following are links to her math related templates.

Math Page

Educational Insights no longer creates activities for Math Safari. And the older units re-sell for about $75 on E-Bay. Donna's site gives templates for creating your own worksheets to use with the Math Safari.

http://donnayoung.org/homeschooling/games/ex/geo-matching-answers.htm

Templates

2008-07-31T13:46:00.016-04:00

The following are links for math templates. The templates can be used with the camera tool as SMARTBoard objects.

This Number Line is a selection from a list of available templates for download offered by New Zealand Maths. Fractional Number Lines, Game Boards, and masters for activities and practice worksheets are included in the template list. Also, the site shares Exemplars for Math listed by level with rubrics that are matched with Curriculum Units (focused on lessons teaching toward Exemplars). The Guides for each topic include worksheets. NOTE: While, the PROPERTIES OF OPERATIONS lesson is a 3 LEVEL, the algebra and number sense skills are challenging. Looking back at 2 LEVEL explores spatial and visual patterning practice relating to all upper grade algebra objectives. The GEOMETRY TRANSFORMATIONS guide continues the matching exemplar and format includes unique and developmental lessons. Look for the detailed teacher questioning scripts.

SMARTBoard Templates - Missouri Schools Template page - CTRL F Search for interactive Dominoes, Four Square Vocabulary, Stem and Leaf Chart, Algebra Tiles for Multiplication, and even a CHARACTER ATTRIBUTES web!

Templates for Board Games - Make your own game board for SMARTBoard object as background. Create playing pieces that students move as they answer questions correctly! Simply download the template, make changes in WORD, and save with your camera tool to use as object in SMARTBoard.

Teachers Pay Teachers - Free Downloads (Requires FREE registration!)

Math Wire - Excellent Templates to support activities and lessons on site.

TeatherBoard: Ideas for using the Hundreds Board ********

Jeopardy

2008-07-26T19:58:00.007-04:00

The format is large enough for SMARTBoard whole class use. A 2-player option could be played with two classroom teams.

This is a QUIA Jeopardy Percents, Decimals, and Fractions game.

This is an example of a Jeopardy Game practicing DECIMALS on QUIA.

Brainchild Online Assessment

2008-07-26T19:36:00.004-04:00

Brainchild offers EOG Achiever Assessment Tool. A 4th Grade DEMO is available at the above link. Data includes the following:

Pre- and Post Test

Data Analysis and Probability:
Geometry and Spatial Sense:
Measurement:
Number Sense and Concepts:
Operations:
Patterns & Algebra :
Average:
Date:	7/26/2008=

Subscription is required.

50 students per grade level = $174

100 students per grade level = $349 per year

This assessment tool would be appropriate for testing transfer students (those with little or no previous testing data) and to identify problem areas with low performing students.

Enable Math

2008-07-26T19:09:00.008-04:00

Interactive applets with examples and concepts. Requires FREE educator's registration.

Click on the topic. Then, click the desired lesson. Choose EXAMPLE, PROBLEMS or CONCEPT to open interactive applet.

7 Solving Linear Equations

8 Graphing Linear Equations

9 Systems of Equations

10 Geometry

11 Polynomials

12 Factoring

13 Rational Expressions & Equations

14 Exponents & Radicals

15 Quadratic Equations

16 Introduction to Functions

19 Exponential and Logarithmic Functions

NOTE: Perimeter and Area are found under GEOMETRY.

Take the TOUR on your first visit!

Geometry Vocabulary

2008-07-22T10:30:00.004-04:00

Here's an activity that will review geometry vocabulary!
Click for PDF!

Links for folding geometry:

http://mathforum.org/alejandre/escot/folding.html

PuzzleWise Vocabulary

2008-07-22T09:30:00.009-04:00

The Math Team decided to focus on vocabulary instruction as our first area of design.

RESEARCH: The Effect of Math Vocabulary Tests Every Two Weeks on the Retention of Math Vocabulary for Third Grade Students

In our Google research, we found RIT leveled vocabulary lists and scores. The scores are used in MAP tests (Measures of Academic Progress).

The RIT Scale is a curriculum scale that uses individual item difficulty values to estimate student achievement. An advantage of the RIT scale is that it can relate the numbers on the scale directly to the difficulty of items on the tests. In addition, the RIT scale is an equal interval scale. Equal interval means that the difference between scores is the same regardless of whether a student is at the top, bottom, or middle of the RIT scale, and it has the same meaning regardless of grade level.

RIT scales, like scales underlying most educational tests, are built from data about the performance of individual examinees on individual items. The theory governing scale construction is called Item Response Theory (IRT). NWEA uses a specific IRT model conceived by Danish mathematician, Georg Rasch, (1901-1980). Rasch is best known for his contributions to psychometrics, and his model is used extensively in assessment in education, particularly for skill attainment and cognitive assessments.

Characteristics of the RIT Scale include:

It is an achievement scale.
It is an accurate scale.
It is an equal interval scale.
It helps to measure growth over time.
It has the same meaning regardless of grade or age of the student.

Tests are created by the NWEA (Northwest Evaluation Association), a non-profit dedicated to helping all children learn. NWEA provides research-based assessments, professional training, and consulting services to improve teaching and learning.

Could this be our model for vocabulary instruction, assessments and portfolio data?

A commercial site, PUZZLE WISE, is used to increase RIT scores. The following are materials found on the PUZZLE WISE site and miscellaneous links related to vocabulary instruction.
RESEARCH: Results of Study of the Effects of Puzzle Wise Books on 3rd - 6th Graders Math Achievements Scores.

PuzzleWise™ Benefits

Students: Students receive the repetition and spiraling they need, both within their grade and also year-to-year, that is necessary to build a solid foundation of science and math knowledge and understanding, and develop the essential skills of critical thinking, problem solving, and resourcing while communicating strategies with their peers.

Teachers: Teachers benefit from a wealth of teachable moments and mini-lessons that lead to higher-level academic conversations and discussions (academic discourse).

Parents/Guardians: Parents and guardians enjoy an activity that builds stronger relationships with their children, while becoming more involved in their child’s learning, extending important academic support through the years.

Simon and the Land of Chalk Drawings

2008-07-21T13:17:00.009-04:00

Is there anyone awake to shine on?

Decimal Detectives

2008-07-21T10:37:00.011-04:00

It's time once again for another WONDERFUL engaging activity!

Decimal Detectives

PLAY GAME! The SUPER MATH site also has games for FRACTIONS, GEOMETRIC SHAPES, and ANGLES!

Fraction/Decimal Interactive Grid

Ordering Decimals

Digit-wize Game

Online Courses

2008-07-21T10:08:00.007-04:00

Professional Learning Courses

Annenberg Media
Learner.Org
Free Registration required to view content videos!

Patterns, Function, and Algebra (Click graphic for site link!)

Number & Operations (Click graphic for site link!)

Teaching Math Grades 3-5 (Click graphic for site link!)

MORE . . . .

Session 3, Part D Patterns Functions and Algebra (Number Game)
Assessment in Math (What's the Point?)

Flex Grouping

2008-07-17T16:49:00.009-04:00

What about grouping?

Flex grouping theory has been on the table from the very beginning of our conversations for learning improvement. We already agree that the classes within each grade level are not balanced by performance level and seem to be a random choice with some preference to parent requests, student/teacher personality match, etc. Using even the simplest benchmark (EOG percentile average), it's easy to analyze which classes have more difficulty with grade level material from the start--before any lessons become a variable.

And, we can also agree that our at-risk population is given more support and pro-action than the AIG end of the spectrum. Why?

What ideas can you offer in support for or against Flex Grouping?

Here are some thoughts from the PLC blog site:

"Therefore, we advised this principal to create heterogeneous groupings for homeroom placement and for most of the students’ day. We also recommended that teachers in the school work in collaborative teams to gather information from frequent common, formative assessments to determine which students need more time and more support to acquire the intended essential skills & concepts and which students are ready for a deeper application of those skills/concepts. Students could then be assigned to flexible, fluid, homogenous groups for intervention and enrichment - student-by-student, skill-by-skill - for a brief, designated portion of each day. Each member of the team, as well as other human resources the school might employ, could then be responsible for providing extra time and support for intervention and enrichment during that designated period each day."

Read more . . . .

Links for further study:
Flexible Grouping (Houghton-Mifflin)

Please comment!

Little Did We Know

2008-07-16T20:58:00.015-04:00

Without the authorization and validation of any buzz words, our small group began our own Professional Learning Community months ago. Little did we know! The hunger driven by confusion about student deficiencies led to supportive discussions in the hallway and parking lot. These "backyard" meetings created an empowered mission statement. We knew that we could fix the problems with our student performance, that we had the brain-power to figure out where we were going wrong, and that a genuine caring and acceptance of our BEAM BABIES was the first and only requirement for membership in our club of change.

This week I am experiencing a county sponsored workshop on PLC’s. Ken Williams is leading our sessions and bringing materials developed as a result of Richard DuFour’s dedication to building a collaborative culture with a focus on learning for all.

Our Math Team will be happy to hear that we are on the right track.

So far, we have identified a shared vision – We are going to climb out of this big, deep hole that has appeared during the last few years. The hole, of course, is the negative growth and poor EOG performance that continues to slap us sharply each spring. We can see our DREAM LEVEL peeking out behind the white fluffy clouds. However, the steps upward are still hiding behind locked doors. Who has the keys?

We have shared values – Our “backyard” discussions have easily branched from common ideals about student behaviors and expectations to strategies that will ensure consistency. Consistency, in fact, stood up and took the role of foundational support. Whether we have talked about vocabulary definitions, homework and supplemental materials, or work ethic – we kept repeating to ourselves “Our students need a consistent teaching philosophy.”

We have identified goals – As of today, we really don’t know what is going to happen when the doors open for students. We don’t know what change we can promote in the next few weeks.

But, during our summer meetings, we’ve used the time to prepare materials that we know will make an impact. Vocabulary instruction and strategies for both math and character traits in language arts became the number one target. Fourth and Fifth grade teachers have come together to develop a list of words and definitions crucial to EOG success.

In addition, we’ve isolated NCDPI indicators that are test heavy weights and flow across the grade levels. We are developing SMARTBoard tools to share effective, interactive learning activities for specific problem area indicators.

We have also identified skills that students need to be successful in problem solving (drawing a place value chart, using the multiplication grid, placing whole numbers and fractions on a number line). We have planned to create a “toolbox” of consistent alternate methods for teaching.

Ongoing discussion and decisions about assessment tools depend on more research and support for either purchased or teacher-made supplemental materials.

Little did we know that we were well on our way. And now we can say . . . we are working within a collaborative study of essential learning that WILL ensure success for every student at BEAM.

SMILE, we’ve got a good thing. Keep going. Keep pushing Mama Cats.

Here's the link for a PLC Blog ALL THINGS PLC!

Good Reading

2008-07-04T21:28:00.014-04:00

In the summer, I have more time for research and planning. Sometimes, the GOOGLE path leads me to places I'd have visited gladly sooner than now, if I'd only known they were out there. The following are GOOD FINDS and GOOD READS discovered while surfing for supplemental math tools.

My first stop was archives of articles written by Dr. Eugene Maier, founder of The Math Learning Center.

He has a particular interest in visual thinking as it relates to the teaching and learning of mathematics. He's coauthor of the Math and the Mind's Eye series and has developed many of the mathematical models and manipulatives that appear in Math Learning Center curriculum materials.

"There is no question that being able to instantaneously recall arithmetical facts can be a convenience. However, one must weigh this convenience against the price paid in forcing rote memorization of facts and giving timed tests, especially when there are so many other ways of arriving at these facts, be it by counting, reading a chart, or punching a calculator."

-Dr. Eugene Maier

Vocabulary Activities

2008-07-02T22:08:00.010-04:00

CREATING VOCABULARY ACTIVITIES FOR SMART BOARD:

http://www.classtools.net/

CLASSTOOLS.NET - free activity generators

Simply Achieve - Sample Vocabulary
SOL Word Sorts
These vocabulary cards will strengthen every students knowledge and understanding of key vocabulary from the VDOE Curriculum Framework. Click on the file below to access these word sorts.

K Math (PDF,
K Science (PDF, 388 KB)
1^st Grade Math (PDF, 1.1 MB)
1^st Grade History (PDF, 944 KB)
2^nd Grade Math (PDF, 416 KB)
3^rd Grade Math (PDF, 1.6 MB)
4^th Grade Math (PDF, 116 KB)
5^th Grade Math (PDF, 196 KB)
6^th Grade Math Word Cards (MS Word, 100KB)
6^th Grade Math Image Cards (MS Word, 408 KB)
7^th Grade Math Word Cards (MS Word, 72 KB)
7^th Grade Math Image Cards (MS Word, 300 KB)
8^th Grade Math Word Cards (MS Word, 524 KB)
8^th Grade Math Image Cards (MS Word, 100 KB)
6^th — 8^th Grade Geometry (PDF, 52 KB)
Algebra I (PDF, 192 KB)

Click here for full screen version

SMARTBoard TOOLBOX

2008-06-27T11:24:00.013-04:00

To quote Julie Andrews in the Sound of Music, " Start at the very beginning. It's a very good place to start!"

Subtraction is essentially the beginning of WORKING BACKWARDS! Just think NUMBER LINE!

I've started on SMARTBoard files for problem solving. The house stands for the FACT FAMILY. I teach the components with a story that ends with a chant: Window plus Window equals Door. Door minus window equals window. I also add hand motions as I move around the house while chanting. The key word and operation symbol are added to the roof. (On the SMARTBoard, the two windows combine to cover the same space as the door!) More on the introductory lesson later!

The screen shots show several of the templates I'm developing to teach "drawing" components for word problems. Here are several features to look for:

Large Format
Pull Tabs for Solutions or Further Explanation
Math Thinking (suitable for repeated readings)
Focused on Problem Solving Skills (i.e., MAKE A TABLE, WORK BACKWARDS, etc.)
Standardized colors and shapes for individual elements of word problems. For instance, the key words are highlighted with blue matching the operation symbols in the equation.

After each sample question (SCREEN SHOTS), I'm going to create 10 practice problems with interactive features for the SMARTBoard lesson. Finally, I'll make a Senteo quiz with a printable student handout.

Super Maths

2008-06-26T05:18:00.014-04:00

Super Maths is a very engaging, large format math game site. Games are fast-paced and timed. Access all of the games from the flash supported main page.

The first preview image appears in the DATA Basic Training Level (Pie Charts: Medium).

The next screen shot shows the HARD level of Pie Charts.

Another preview shot shows an example from the NUMBER group. Find this game under PLACE VALUE.

This site is worth the time to explore, with our main focus on the BASIC TRAINING levels. However, the INTERIOR ANGLES GAME is found under EXPERT!

Enjoy exploring this activity site. Please post comments on individual game application to our lessons.

Character Traits

2008-06-26T04:50:00.009-04:00

This blog is in response to Team Teaching meeting with SMARTBoard Training.

Several sites to help with CHARACTER VOCABULARY words:

What is Character?
Author's Development of Character
Character Trading Cards - An online interactive activity to help students understand character changes
How and Why Characters Change - PDF template
Read Write and Think Lesson for above
Teacher background - Adjectives information used to determine character traits
Character Trait Interactive Chart
List of Character Traits
Read Write and Think Lesson

More ideas, activities and lessons at READ, WRITE & THINK!

Cloze Passage Generator and More: Download the trial version.

Supplemental Materials

2008-06-25T05:51:00.014-04:00

Here are some publications that offer supplemental materials:

Everyday Math:

Open-ended, "show-your-work" processes, constant review, and games.
Videos explain components.
Strategies beyond worksheets. (Video)
Multiple algorithms taught
Growing with Math Textbook Curriculum
Everyday Math purchase information
You Tube Videos

Singapore Math:

Drawing Math Teacher's Guide for Primary Math
Concrete > Pictorial > Abstract Fractions Example Geometry Example
Booklets for individual needs Extensive Practice Example

Saxon Math:

Excel Math K-6 Curriculum:

Math Learning Center

SRA Number Worlds

What other supplemental materials are available to review?

SMARTBoard Workshop June 25th

2008-06-22T10:58:00.004-04:00

Reminder:

Workshop Wednesday June 25th

8:30 - 2:30

Planet Bell and Lab

Lunch: (Bring suggestions!)

There are many new activities and games included in the Version 10 that will be appropriate for vocabulary study.
I will have a CD with files for everyone that attends.
Bring your labptop and a jump drive to save files created. We will discuss ways to share and save our files at the workshop.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

E-mail any questions or post comments here on the blog.

Fractions

2008-06-21T21:20:00.002-04:00

Look at this video using KidSpiration to teach Fractions!

These program components are new to me.

Here a site to use for Equivalent Fractions.

Function Tables

2008-06-21T20:47:00.003-04:00

How long does it take a tomato to drop from the top of a building? This FLASH activity from MathRealm provides an interesting function table exercise.

Pan Balance

2008-06-20T20:47:00.012-04:00

What steps do you teach for a pan balance problem?

Below is an explanation of "math thinking" needed to solve for a pictorial variable. The passage is a good example of a "repeated reading" sample to build math vocabulary fluency.

Steps:

First, I looked at the balance to compare the numerals. I saw the squares were not congruent. They were not the same size even though they were the same shape.

The balance is the same as an equal mark. I can write a number sentence using the digits on the scale. They are the addend that will give an even sum.

On the right side of the scale, the addend 1 is odd. I know that the mystery number must be odd to make an even answer.

If I add the two numbers on the left, the total is 6. (2 + 4 = 6). The value of the right side must be the same! If I make a subtraction problem using the digits, it would be 6 – 1 = ____. So, the difference is 5!

Resources:

http://homeschoolmath.blogspot.com/search/label/balance

http://www.mathplayground.com/algebraic_reasoning.html

http://www2.edc.org/mathpartners/pdfs/8-9%20Equations.pdf http://www.nsa.gov/teachers/ms/algrst39.pdf (problems for SMARTBoard)

http://www.mathrealm.com/Units/Assignment_D.php?FileName=VariableMachine.dcr&UnitID=241 Understanding Function Words

http://www.mathrealm.com/Units/Assignment_D.php?FileName=SolveOneVariableAddSub.dcr&UnitID=99 Solving for Variable on a Balance

http://www.learner.org/channel/courses/learningmath/algebra/session6/part_c/index.html Bags, Blocks and Balance Lesson Activity

http://www.mathsisfun.com/algebra/add-subtract-balance.html Flash Activity Add and Subtract on a Balance

Software: http://www.exefind.com/balance-keeper-P3083.html Balance Keeper

http://www.ciese.org/ciesemath/b3.html

XP Math Games

2008-06-18T18:31:00.013-04:00

XP Math Games

These links have games for 4th and 5th grade in large scale, just perfect for the SMARTBoard. Topic areas - Number & Operations, Algebra, Geometry, Measurement, and Data and Probability. Here are some examples. Many more quality games are included on the site.

Metroid Coordinates - practice coordinates in four quadrants

Comparing Fractions - practice equivalents and improper fractions

Flip Angles - memory game to match pictures and names of angles

Finding Area of Parallelograms

XP Math has more than games. The site has been featured on PBS Teacher Source and Sites for Teachers. There are worksheets, discussion boards, plus videos and e-books to download for FREE! The e-books are pdf files. Here's a sample from the Fast Ideas for Busy Teachers (Both grades 4 and 5).

Math Gopher

2008-06-17T20:02:00.004-04:00

This is a math trick that reviews vocabulary and computation: two digits, add together, subtract, original number, symbol.

What a great introductory activity!

http://www.learnenglish.org.uk/games/magic-gopher-central.swf

NOTE: This game will be blocked by TSS because of the "GAME" notation in the URL. An unblock request will be sent.

GETTING STUCK

2008-06-17T06:34:00.006-04:00

The "I'm stuck!" wall that stops students in their tracks may be a teacher's greatest obstacle. How do we know how high or wide? How do we coach them to get over it, if the origin and depth are hidden?

This article explains the "stuck" problem in problem solving!

GETTING STUCK, GETTING UNSTUCK—COACHING AND QUESTIONING
Problem-solving involves being "stuck." If a task does not puzzle us at all, then it is not a problem; it is an exercise. Sometimes it is appropriate to congratulate a student for being stuck—it means the student has tackled a worthwhile challenge and gotten to a meaningful point.
One way to get stuck is to ask questions that are beyond our background to solve or are not entirely clear. Progress can also halt when we are unable to determine what knowledge would be useful to apply at a particular point. The most common form of "stuck-ness" faced by students stems from their failure to identify the obstacle to their progress. They are stuck because they believe that being stuck is an amorphous and hopeless situation. Teachers and mentors need to help students understand that there are many specific ways to be stuck, and that, for each barrier, there are associated methods for becoming unstuck. The challenge, when stuck, is determining why one is stuck.

Read the whole article: http://www2.edc.org/makingmath/handbook/teacher/StuckAndUnstuck/StuckAndUnstuck.asp

Mixing in Math

2008-06-14T11:08:00.006-04:00

Mixing in Math is a program for "other" subject areas to mix in math, but the ideas are great for introductory and review activities:

Just for Fun!

http://mixinginmath.terc.edu/

Here's a chart of all the activities sorted by content: http://mixinginmath.terc.edu/MiM_Content_Chart.pdf

Resources for Test Items

2008-06-14T10:57:00.009-04:00

The TeqSmart site offers downloads of lessons, etc. for SMARTBoard: http://community.teqsmart.org/download.php

NCDPI list:

http://www.ncpublicschools.org/docs/accountability/testing/eog/ProblemSources.pdf

Indicators, Keeping Skills Sharp, etc.: http://community.learnnc.org/dpi/math/archives/2005/06/grades_35_resou_1.php
Includes: http://nces.ed.gov/nationsreportcard/itmrls/
Previously Posted NCDPI Samples: http://www.ncpublicschools.org/accountability/testing/eog/sampleitems/mathprevposted
More Sample Items Updated:
http://www.ncpublicschools.org/accountability/testing/eog/sampleitems/math
Problem Solving Decks: (Could be Smart Board Tools)
http://community.learnnc.org/dpi/math/archives/2005/06/problem_solving.php
Singapore Math Placement Tests: http://www.sonlight.com/singapore-placement-tests.html

Singapore Math, Thinking Blocks and Drawing for Problem Solving

2008-06-14T10:39:00.018-04:00

While searching for templates to place in our toolbox, I found sites that demonstrate "drawing" math problems.

Grade 3: http://thesingaporemaths.com/p3math1f.swf

More of the same on different grade levels: http://thesingaporemaths.com/index.html

This explanation looks very much like my "dots and sticks" for regrouping: http://www.eduplace.com/math/mthexp/g4/mathbkg/pdf/mb_g4_u2.pdf

Thinking Blocks: http://www.thinkingblocks.com/

Multiplication and Division Problems with Thinking Blocks Sample: http://www.thinkingblocks.com/ThinkingBlocks_MD/TB_MD_Main.html

Let's Play Math Blog on Drawing Diagrams to solve problems: http://letsplaymath.wordpress.com/2007/10/02/pre-algebra-problem-solving-3rd-grade/

Video on 8-Step Drawing Process (describing info in book)http://www.crystalspringsbooks.com/videosamples/bhogan.htm and description of the book

Sample pages from the book

Worksheet Generators

2008-06-14T10:29:00.015-04:00

Here's a list of sites that offer FREE worksheet and exercise generators :

Math Goodies http://www.mathfactcafe.com/build/default.aspx?vid=600

Get Worksheets http://www.getworksheets.com/samples/worksheets/math/index.html (become a member to download ALL worksheets!)

Math Kangaroo http://www.kangurusa.com/clark/pdb/Tools to make exercises and worksheets with Word Search, Crossword, Bingo, Label the Picture, Fill in the Blank, Flashcards, Matching, Board Game, Word Spiral, Multiple Choice, Scrambled Sentences, Missing Words, Split Words, True or false, Lined, and Categories. No-stress lesson preparation; an easy way of creating your own exercises. Complement your teaching with pictures and ready-to-print materials from THE LANGUAGE MAKER. (Free Registration)

Wordsmyth - Crossword, Quiz, Anagrams plus online dictionary tools

Word Learner - Click ONLINE in the top bar interactive flashcards, matching, hangman, and printable flash cards.

Mama Cats

2008-06-14T09:18:00.003-04:00

I'm not a cat person! My mom was chased by a rabid cat that lunged at her just as she slammed the screen door of the old home place. A traumatic memory of claws hanging in the mesh with both the mangy critter and the child screaming to high heaven for help foreshadowed a perpetuated fear and disgust of all felines.

Early in our marriage, Gene and I moved to Fuquay Varina in a "hand's" house in the middle of a dairy farm. The peaceful rural setting coupled with Green Acres comedy at times. Once, while I was enjoying a cool breeze from an opened bedroom window, I turned to see that a cow was critiquing my decorating skills. I screamed, she bumped her head, and both of us wheeled around in a burst of surprise.

The farm, loaded with all types of four-legged creatures, included three yellow, tabby cats abandoned by the previous tenant. Three female cats. Shortly after we moved in, they all "found" kittens within a few days of each other. My excitement and curiosity was overwhelming. There’s so much secrecy with cats. They hide those babies and spit and snarl at you if you get too close. Yet, I continued to pry and observe.

Just as the kittens eyes began to open, I made my trek early one morning to check on them. Lo and behold, I spotted one of the mother cats sneaking across the yard with a whining kitten's neck gripped in her teeth. The horror was as traumatic for me as I'm sure the rapid cat experience was for my mother. "Ahhhh! She's eating it!" My inexperienced nervousness seems so laughable now, but in that moment I almost dropped to my knees in fear. Images of blood and gore raced through my mind along with flashes of guilt. Had I pushed her over the edge with my interference? Nevertheless, my legs found the fortitude to follow that cat. To my surprise, she deposited the wailing kitten in a pile . . . of ALL the kittens. Those mama cats combined efforts and gathered all the babies in one nest.

During the next two weeks, the three tabbies took turns feeding and caring for the constantly churning mass. One of the mother cats was hit by a car, and her babies survived just fine. This nest stayed put as I enjoyed playing nursemaid and housekeeper for the brood with the two remaining cats watching over their growing pride.

Those poverty driven tabbies discovered that even though their DNA drove them to secrecy and seclusion, their babies were better off with a big dose of cooperation. They made a daring move that saved one litter.

Math Slice

2008-06-13T07:22:00.004-04:00

These games are just the right size for SMART board projection.

Review for Test Prep Online Practice and Games

Many games and materials including a WHEEL and MATH MATCH that support vocabulary.

http://www.mathslice.com/index.html

Teachers Using Technology and Smart Board Tools

2008-06-12T21:51:00.001-04:00

You must register for this site:

http://teachustech.ning.com/

Teachers First Smart Board Tools: http://www.teachersfirst.com/getsource.cfm?id=9304

Tool Box

2008-06-12T20:32:00.002-04:00

Do you have any ideas for tools that are necessary for students to be able to draw such as the multiplication grid, place value chart, and measurement function table?

Sites to preview:

Problem Solving Toolbox: http://letsplaymath.files.wordpress.com/2007/10/problem-solving-tool-box.pdf
Creating Stories for Math Problems: http://www.readwritethink.org/lessons/lesson_view.asp?id=144
Let's Play Math Blog with games http://letsplaymath.wordpress.com/2006/12/29/the-game-that-is-worth-1000-worksheets/

3D for Smart Board

2008-06-11T18:45:00.001-04:00

Smart Board and Edusim

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2LN5JRl8_sU and another with students using this new tool http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uVFsxev-2sk.

More at http://www.edusim3d.com/

WOW!

Math Vids

2008-06-11T16:29:00.000-04:00

Remember what Bilbo used to say: "It's a dangerous business, Frodo, going out your door. You step onto the road, and if you don't keep your feet, there's no knowing where you might be swept off to!"

This forum supports the growing idea of Team Teaching for our school. Both management and strategies will be discussed and researched.

06/11/08
Week 1: Please visit this site and click on some of the Quicktime videos. Of particular interest are the language enrichment activities. We have already identified vocabulary instruction as an area of importance.

http://coe.jmu.edu/mathvids2/

This is the link to the videos: http://coe.jmu.edu/mathvids2/videos/videos.html (Scroll down to structured language experiences! )

Post your comments.

H. H. Beam Math Team

Brite Kids Online

Fractions and Decimals on a Number Line

Learning Upgrade Fraction Tutorial and Practice

Coordinate Graphs Learning Upgrade Demo

Learning Upgrade

Classroom Tools.Net

Mister Teacher.Com

Make a Big Number Game

Saving Energy and Money

The Zone - TxCAE

Academic Skill Builders

Senteo 2.0

Math Quizzes and Online Games

Learning Curve

Math Expressions

Math Stories

Grid Paper and Graphics for SmartBoard

Wordle

Week 7

SmartBoard and Airliner Workshop 10/16/08

Lesson Plan and Assessment from Indiana

Waldo Maths

Number and Algebra

Higher Number and Algebra

Shape, Space and Measure

Higher Shape & Space

Data Handling

Higher Data Handling

Investigative Tools

Math Mind - Pacemaker Curriculum

Word Problem Strategies at WASL

Sensational SmartBoard Sites

Whack 'Em Math

Cornerstone Online Activities

Multiplication Grid

More like the above multiplication game -

FREEBIES and BINGO CARDS

CONGRATULATIONS!

The Olympics

Quick Links to Some Hidden UK Resources

Jeopardy Games for SMARTBoard

Donna Young's Information Packed Site

Templates

Jeopardy

Brainchild Online Assessment

Enable Math

Geometry Vocabulary

PuzzleWise Vocabulary

Simon and the Land of Chalk Drawings

Decimal Detectives

Online Courses

Flex Grouping

Little Did We Know

Good Reading

Vocabulary Activities

SMARTBoard TOOLBOX

Super Maths

Character Traits

Supplemental Materials

SMARTBoard Workshop June 25th

Fractions

Function Tables

Pan Balance

XP Math Games

Math Gopher

GETTING STUCK

Mixing in Math

Resources for Test Items

Singapore Math, Thinking Blocks and Drawing for Problem Solving

Worksheet Generators

Mama Cats

Math Slice

Teachers Using Technology and Smart Board Tools

Tool Box

3D for Smart Board

Math Vids