My Algebra II class is currently learning to factor and graph quadratics. With the new common core standards and the increase of technology use in everyday life, I have to decide what part of the material should be taught. In regard to quadratics, I have settled on factoring the standard form of a quadratic, imaginary numbers, finding the vertex equation and the quadratic formula because that is really all they need to know to work with quadratics. I do not even teach completing the square or vertex forms because most of the time, I can have students just graph the equation or use the quadratic formula to find roots.
I had my two T.A's try the training part of the Math 42 app and they struggled with it because they did not know the vertex form or even how to complete the square. This lead me to the though "Are apps keeping pace with what do students really need to know to succeed in today's society. They can download apps to their phones for use. My mother remembers when the computer at work took a whole floor and it was the latest. I had to learn all this because we did not have access to calculators or apps on digital devices. I had to know so much so I could graph equations.
I find that IXL has the testing part that allows me choices so I can decide if I only want my Algebra II class to factor or work complete the square. I can even have my Algebra I class take a quiz focused on the slope-intercept form or point-slope form
I think the Math 42 app will be better as an app to help reinforce learning.
Showing posts with label Math 42. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Math 42. Show all posts
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Math 42 app
Math 42 app has two modes. The first is how to solve your own equations while the second is using it to practice various facets of math.
With in the solving your own equations, you can choose linear, quadratic, etc for this to solve. I used x^2 + 3x +2 and although it came up with 1 and 2 as the factors, it showed solving it using the completing the square method rather than straight factoring. It does have a nice help button that gives you answers to most standard questions regarding use of the program.
First thing I did was try a simple combine like terms expression.
The app gives the user numerous choices on which step to look at. The student can look at the answer, how to combine like terms etc. So a student can learn by looking and by following the steps.
Furthermore, it allows students to solve linear, quadratic, derivatives, etc. This is a nice way to have students check their work.
Further more, if you have the student click on the graduation cap, you are taken to the testing portion of the app.
Students have a choice of training, test or other and its like a standardized test with multiple choices. You can choose what type of math you want to prctice. This app serves a double need in that it provides assessment and helps students learn to do problems so they can check as they go.
Unfortunately, it will sometimes choose a method of solving that I would not personally choose, otherwise it does provide a nice app for ongoing assessment.
With in the solving your own equations, you can choose linear, quadratic, etc for this to solve. I used x^2 + 3x +2 and although it came up with 1 and 2 as the factors, it showed solving it using the completing the square method rather than straight factoring. It does have a nice help button that gives you answers to most standard questions regarding use of the program.
First thing I did was try a simple combine like terms expression.
Furthermore, it allows students to solve linear, quadratic, derivatives, etc. This is a nice way to have students check their work.
Further more, if you have the student click on the graduation cap, you are taken to the testing portion of the app.
Unfortunately, it will sometimes choose a method of solving that I would not personally choose, otherwise it does provide a nice app for ongoing assessment.
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