As I researched the various websites provided to us in class, a few of them stood out as ones that I would find beneficial to use in my classroom. One of the sites, Curriki (http://www.curriki.org/) offers users a variety of resources that have already been created. There are PowerPoints, videos, lessons, and activities that represent a variety of grade levels and contents. The website can be searched by grade level, content, or both. Additionally, the user can search by key terms. I began simply by typing Algebra in the search box. This quickly resulted in a number of topics that are covered in videos.
As a teacher, one of my biggest challenges has always been to not let absent students fall behind in the curriculum. I think that this website could be one way for me to keep these students caught up with the material. It is also a good way for students who need a little extra assistance with a topic. The students can view the videos or PowerPoints on their own. They can work through the exercises. Additionally, I like the fact that there are a number of available resources on this site. Usually, I find that as I am more specific towards middle school mathematics in a search, there are few activities included that are applicable. This site is different. I decided to search for games geared towards mathematics in grades 6-8 and found 159 choices available. Now, while I am sure that not every game is perfect, I am likely to find something that will work for the topic I wish to review with students.
Another website that I enjoyed was ClassTools.net (http://www.classtools.net/). It is set up to allow teachers to design their own quizzes, games, or activities. There is a free version that allows you to design activities or access samples; however, one downfall of this site is there is a subscription fee if you want to access the Premium services. While I have not mastered everything on the website, I am tempted to purchase the Premium service as one of my first attempts at integrating Internet based technology into my classroom. I want to be able to create activities that I can save and access at any time. The Random Name Picker is a quick way to randomly call on students with a fun twist. The Countdown Timer offers a visual way for students to see how much time is left. Moreover, Twister offers a unique project for students to research famous mathematicians and display the information in cute posters. While I still have room to practice and master the creation of the activities, I do believe that this website would offer me a way to include fun in the review process, especially as we prepare for the standardized testing continuously throughout the year. If I can motivate the students to want to learn, they will achieve more. This website will offer motivation.
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