Technology Newsletter

October 2013 Volume 1: Issue 1

Note from the Teacher

Dear Parents and Families, This newsletter is to inform you of the technology you and your student can use for mathematic instruction. Technology is important for teaching and learning mathematics because it changes the way children learn math. The variety and extensive programs that are available makes learning mathematics accessible to a wider range of students. This newsletter will highlight a type of computer software called Destination Mathematics and virtual manipulatives at the National Library of Virtual Manipulatives. Specifically, I will highlight programs relating to rational numbers that I will implement into our instruction. Ms. Gervais

Inside
-Destination Mathematics -The National Library of Virtual Manipulatives

Technology Newsletter

Volume 1: Issue 1

Destination Math
Destination Math is a computer software system for K-12 students with 20 modules separated by grade and topic. It is not used for instruction, but to supplement for practice of skills in an interactive activity. In the classroom, we will use it after lessons to reinforce and practice skills we just learned. Using software programs for mathematics has many different purposes. Students can learn to organize data, learn new concepts, and practice skills. This computer system is especially beneficial for visual learners because of the interactive aspect and visual approach. It also may encourage struggling students to view math in a different way. Destination Math combines education with relatable resources.

Spotlight On: Destination Math Mastering Skills and Concepts III: Intermediate Mathematics
Destination Math Master Skills and Concepts III: Intermediate Mathematics is designed for students in grades 4-6 and has over 127 learning objectives in intermediate math. Specifically, this module has sections on rational numbers, including fractions and decimals. Each section has different sub-units where students can practice specific skills. For example, in the fraction section it has subsections of improper and proper fractions, addition and subtraction and multiplication and division. This program uses enticing visual effects with colorful graphics and realistic sound bites. Students constantly engaged by the interactive lessons where they figure out the problems and answer the questions. To a student who may have trouble seeing where math fits into real-world situations this type of program will help. Students practice skills in a way that provides context to the skill. They learn where and when skills can be used.

Technology Newsletter

Volume 1: Issue 1

The National Library of Virtual Manipulatives

Virtual manipulatives are objects that can be accessed on the Internet and used on the computer. They are like physical manipulatives that can be altered on the computer. Virtual Manipulatives are another avenue for children to explore mathematics and have an interactive learning experience. Specifically, virtual manipulatives overlap between concrete representation and abstract representation because they are representing numbers as virtual models. The National Library of Virtual Manipulatives (NLVM) is a collection of manipulatives that is free on the Internet. It has resources from Pre-K through 12th grade with five topics including number and operations, algebra, geometry, measurement and data analysis and probability. NLVM has a number of manipulatives that can be used inside and outside of the classroom for extra instruction and practice. They will be used in my classroom as another means of exploration and discovery of math. Under the number and operations tabs there are a variety of applets that can be used for understanding fractions. Personally, I recommend both the Pre-K through 2nd and 3-5 grade sections. I recommend the Fraction-Visualizing applet for students to visualize fractions. A fraction will appear on the screen and the student must illustrate the fraction by dividing it into its appropriate parts. It will tell the student if they are correct and incorrect and explain the answer. Therefore, this will allow the student to know if they are on the right track more immediately then using physical manipulatives. This will allow the student to use concrete and abstract representation of the fraction. Link: http://nlvm.usu.edu/en/nav/vlibrar y.html

Take the time to review these programs with your student so they can bridge a home and school connection that will allow them to make better meaning of what they are learning. Enjoy! Questions or Concerns? Email me: Gervaisk@bc.edu