Annotated Bibliography

Annotated Bibliography

The following three books, and two websites, were picked to assist students in the 7^th or 8^th grade.  The books and websites will be used to ease the students’ transition into Algebra I, from simple algebraic thinking.  Specifically, the books will be used as a resource in the first unit, which is introductory in nature and presents basic algebraic expressions and equations.  As part of this, the websites will be used during the initial unit to assist student understanding and ensure mastery of the “underpinnings” of Algebra.  In addition, the books and websites include real world applications and simple explanations that bring the concepts to life.  In addition, they assist in making mathematics accessible to all students, no matter their ability level. 
 

Further, the books and websites can be used throughout the Algebra I curriculum.  Overall, the books and websites are suited for students with average ability in mathematics and the concepts are simple in nature.  Additionally, the books and websites include practice problems that will foster the development of basic skills.  Also, the books and websites present real world applications of basic algebraic concepts.  Realistically, the use of real world applications is important in assisting students through the curriculum.  At the same time, the applications should “peak” student interest in the content and ease student anxieties associated with mathematics.  Given the building nature of mathematics, assisting students in mastering the “underpinnings” of Algebra is essential for their long term success.      

1. Tradebook

Adler, D. A. (2011). Mystery Math: A First Book of Algebra. New York, NY: Holiday House.

ISBN-13: 9780823422890

Flesch – Kincaid Readability Estimate: 7.1

Amazon Link: Mystery Math: A First Book of Math

Mystery Math is a cleverly written book which introduces algebraic equations, and the vocabulary associated with them, in a very logical manner.  Additionally, the book presents the concepts in a manner that is appealing to students at the middle school level.  The story is based on the idea that algebra equations can assist us in solving math mysteries.  As a part of this, the story is set in a haunted house and the author uses graphics of smiling monsters, skeletons, spiders, and bats to reflect how all algebraic equations must be balanced.  Overall, the author drives home the point that these equations can be easily balanced by using the skills students already have, i.e. the ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide.  In reality, the author’s point is that Algebra is not scary since it is just an extension of basic mathematics.

This book is very easy to understand and could be used during any introductory algebra course.  At the same time, the book could be used to assist students that continue to struggle, during the semester, with basic algebraic equations.  Given the fact that the solving of algebraic equations is an on-going issue at all levels of Algebra, the use of the ideas presented in the book are endless.  As part of this, I would read this book with students prior to a lesson on solving algebraic equations.  Further, I would have students complete the activity, included in the book, which is beneficial and very interactive in nature. Overall, this book would also be made accessible to students as part of a class library.  In reality, I would be very confident reminding students of the author’s way of thinking throughout the semester and having them re-read the book, independently, as necessary.   

2. Tradebook

Rappaport, J. (2000). Algebra Survival Guide. Santa Fe, NM: Singing Turtle Press.

ISBN-13: 9780965911382

Flesch – Kincaid Readability Estimate: 7.4

Amazon Link: Algebra Survival Guide

The book Algebra Survival Guide is an essential tool for any student entering Algebra or struggling with the subject.  As part of this, the book can be used at the middle or high school level and presents the subject in a manner that is easy to understand.  For his part, the author breaks complex algebraic ideas into simple terms that make the concepts accessible to all students.  In reality, the book summarizes the key concepts in Algebra I which are essential for long term math success.  Further, the book is divided into units that match the curriculum of any Algebra class.  As well, the author presents the vocabulary and key procedures in basic terms that students should be able to understand. 

Overall, the Algebra Survival Guide has real value and the potential to assist students at any level.  Personally, I would use the book as a resource that can assist with lesson planning.  The book explains difficult concepts in terms that are easy to understand.  In addition, the book includes questions that are essential in gauging mastery.  Further, I would include the book in my class library and would feel comfortable referring students to the book to guarantee their understanding. As part of this, given the low price of the book, I would encourage students to purchase the book as it has real uses beyond introductory Algebra. 

3. Tradebook

Rappaport, J. (2010). Algebra Survival Guide Workbook. Santa Fe, NM: Singing Turtle Press.

ISBN-13: 9780965911375

Flesch – Kincaid Readability Estimate: 8.7       

Amazon Link: Algebra Survival Guide Workbook

The Algebra Survival Guide Workbook is a supplement for the Algebra Survival Guide, which is a valuable resource for any student attempting to master Algebra I.  The workbook includes 50+ pages of problems which offer ample practice for key algebraic concepts.  Additionally, the author was sure to limit problem sets to one specific concept to maximize student focus.  Further, the problem sets are directly tied to the Algebra Survival Guide and each problem set includes the matching page number for easy review.  Finally, another great feature of the workbook is the fact that all of the answers are included in the back of the book.  In reality, when paired with the Algebra Survival Guide, the workbook provides a complete and thorough Algebra I curriculum for any student.

The workbook has a plethora of uses, and can be a resource for both students and the teacher.  For students, I would use the workbook in conjunction with the textbook for focused practice on intricate Algebra concepts.  This would be achieved by generating quizzes and worksheets that are based on one specific concept.  This would provide a better gauge of student understanding, since mathematics is full of basic skills that need to be mastered prior to moving on.  In many cases, one complex problem may require students to have a thorough understanding of several concepts.  Far too often, textbooks and teachers concentrate on the complex problem and not the skills necessary to solve them.  Given the nature of this workbook, essential skills can be mastered and reviewed one at a time.  In the long run, these essential skills will allow students to successfully solve more complex problems. 

4. Website: Illuminations: National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM)

http://illuminations.nctm.org/

The website http://illuminations.nctm.org/ was designed, by the NCTM, to provide standard based resources and materials.  These standard based resources help improve the teaching and learning of mathematics for students ranging from Pre K to 12^th grade.   As part of this, the website is intended for teachers and students and the lessons, activities and games are tied to the Principles and Standards of the NCTM.  The activities and lessons cover the common foundation of mathematics to be learned by all students including Number & Operations, Algebra, Geometry, Measurement, and Data Analysis & Probability. 

The site contains a variety of resources including 107 activities that can be used in the classroom by teachers, or by students at home, to help bring math to life.  As part of this, the activities are grade specific and include full instructions on how to complete them.  Additionally, there is an exploration section in the activity that requires students to explore a real world example, tied to the activity, and answer questions related to their work.  Overall, I would assign problems from these real world examples that would enhance student understanding of the concepts.

Overall, the site is user friendly and easy to navigate.  As part of this, the page is neatly laid out, which makes navigating from section to section very simple.  The spacing of the lettering and graphics on the page is good and visually appealing.  Further, the text is written in a way which will not be difficult for the average reader. Finally, the page is very interactive in nature adding to the ease of use.  As a teacher, I would be confident providing students with exercises from this site.  It is a great resource, easy to use, and connected to the Common Core Standards.  In reality, this site could be a valuable resource during the introductory phase of Algebra.  Overall, the site is full of useful activities and exercises that help students understand why we use math and how it is essential in everyday life. 

5. Website: Study Island: A leading provider of standard based assessments

http://www.studyisland.com/

The studyisland.com website is a great resource for any Math teacher, teaching from 2nd through 12th grade.  Overall, the site is very interactive in nature and incredibly user friendly.  In addition, not only is the site a great source for Math practice but also includes programs for English, Biology, Chemistry, Civics & Economics, US History & Geography, and World History.  As part of this, the activities are lined up with the Maryland Voluntary State Curriculum and Core Learning Goals.  Further, as expected, the activities strengthen skills that are necessary to improve MSA and HSA test scores.

A further review of the site reflects its usefulness in the classroom.  Each section of the site includes a pre-test and a post-test.  As part of this the sections include questions, answers, explanations and lessons that address specific skills that are necessary to master the subject matter, which matches the Maryland VSC and Core Learning Goals.  Further, the website provides immediate feedback to the user and the teacher.  This allows for greater differentiation in the classroom and ultimately improves student understanding.  During the introductory phase of Algebra I students would be required to complete a pre-assessment to gauge their skill level.  Further, the students could be continually assessed throughout the curriculum to ensure mastery of the content.  As part of this, throughout the curriculum, adjustments can be made as necessary based on the results of assessments.

Overall, the site is incredibly user friendly, on grade level reading wise, and easy to navigate.  As part of this, the page is neatly laid out, which makes navigating from section to section very simple.  The spacing of the lettering and graphics on the page is good and visually appealing. Additionally, the page is very interactive in nature adding to the ease of use.  As an added benefit, students are provided with a simple log in and password, which will allow me to assign specific problems to them.  This provides a greater level of differentiation, which adds to my comfort level with this website.  Obviously, given these features, the page is a great resource due to the fact that it is easy to use and connected to the Common Core Standards.

Realistically, I could use the website during the initial unit, and throughout the curriculum, in several ways.  First, since the website is accessible anywhere, students could be assigned homework on the website.  As part of this, since the site is interactive in nature, students will be provided with a different mode of instruction instead of the standard text.  Additionally, I could use the site, in the classroom, to give the students a break from standard instruction.  From time to time, the students could be assigned time in the computer lab to complete problems.  In my opinion, this type of instruction could be very beneficial to students as long as I provide clear objectives of what is required of them from the beginning.  

Mystery Math Readability Estimate

If you’ve ever been on a seesaw, you know something about equations.  You know something about algebra.  A seesaw is like an equation.  A see saw must be balanced.

Subtraction can help you solve word problems and algebra equations.  Igor is the caretaker of the haunted house.  He told Mandy and Billy, “There were bats flying around in here before I started my lunch.”

You already know how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide.  Now you know how that helps you with algebra.  Solving mysteries is fun.  Algebra helps you solve math mysteries.

Flesh-Kincaid Readability Estimate : 7.1

Math Survival Guide Readability Estimate

What is Algebra?

Algebra is a branch of math that performs a magic trick.  It takes something that is unknown and poof, turns it into something known.  Algebra has done this by using letters to stand for mystery numbers.  Algebra also gives you a process to let you discover the value of variables.

A monomial is a mathematical term with two parts.  First, the coefficient is made up of the number in front, along with its sign.  Also, a monomial has a variable or string of variables, each of which is raised to an exponent.

The trick lies in the set up.  First, you need to know how to express people’s ages in relation to one another.  Then you need to know how to change timeframes.  Let’s look at each skill individually.

Flesh-Kincaid Reading Level : 7.4

Math Survival Guide Workbook Readability Estimate

Which properties, if any, are shown by these statements?  To which set of numbers, if any, do the following belong?  Simplify using the same-sign rule.

When solving equations, you often encounter the same or mixed sign rule in vertical format.

Simplify these terms using the complex radical quotient rule.  Simplify these terms by rationalizing the denominators.  List the primary factors of these monomials.

Solve for the variable in these word problems.  Solve these percent word problems.  Solve these percent increase problems.  Solve these consecutive integer problems.  Solve these age problems.  Solve for the third quantity.

Flesh – Kincaid Readability Estimate : 8.7

Online Activity, EDU 551

Reading Next documents the growing literacy problem in the United States.  As part of this, the article describes a growing problem following the elementary levels.  Overall, school systems have concentrated on word recognition however comprehension has been ignored.  While this has worked for students developing basic reading skills, through 3rd grade, it has proven to be detrimental to students in 4th through 12th grades.  As a result of this, Reading Next presents several key elements of an effective adolescent literacy programs.  First, and foremost, is the idea of direct, explicit comprehension instruction which is based on instruction in the strategies and processes that proficient readers use.  In reality, this idea has been presented previously, including by Gunning in Chapter 8 Comprehension: Text Structures and Teaching Procedures.  Throughout Chapter 8, Gunning presents ideas and techniques necessary to foster comprehension. As part of this, Gunning explains the tools that will build higher level literacy.


A further review of Reading Next reflects some very important aspects that have been previously discussed in IRA, Adolescent Literacy: A Position Statement.  Throughout this reading, the authors presented the principles that support adolescent literacy growth including the idea that adolescents deserve homes, communities, and a nation that will support their efforts to achieve advanced levels of literacy.  Overall, it is based on the fact that adolescent need support from the school, the local community, and the nation. Reading Next expands on this idea by calling for a comprehensive and coordinated literacy program that may coordinate with out-of-school organizations and the local community.    


As a secondary math teacher several of the elements presented in Reading Next can be utilized in my classroom to improve higher level literacy.  Overall, since math is a language of its own, building comprehension is essential to student success.  As part of this, direct and explicit comprehension instruction is essential.  I could easily achieve this by using techniques that will improve understanding including the use of selective reading guides for new vocabulary.  In addition, I believe that the use of explicit, planned questioning that gauges student understanding and comprehension is imperative.   


Further, the use of text based collaborative learning could be productive in a secondary math class.  For instance, I am a big proponent of jigsaw technique.  First, it requires students to work collaboratively to build understanding.  More importantly, it requires students to explain a topic to their peers.  In many situations, this can greatly improve student comprehension of a topic.  Maybe they do not understand how I explained a topic.  Many times students have a simple way of making sense of complex topics.  Overall, I could use jigsaw techniques in my math class when working through a complex topic that incorporates new math vocabulary.  In addition, it could be used in situations where there is, simply, more than one way to solve a problem.  For instance, when teaching systems of equations, I could have students jigsaw the different techniques (elimination, substitution, and graphing) for solving them.  


Finally, I believe that I could easily implement the use of diverse texts at a variety of difficulty levels and on a variety of topics in my secondary math classroom.  In my opinion, this could be done in several manners.  Initially, it would be very easy to have a "reading corner" in the classroom which includes diverse text and a computer.  Ideally, as a math teacher, some will be math related however a large portion would be student-relevant magazines, books, and approved web sites.  At my current internship placement, a middle school, the students are encouraged to use the computers in the room during homeroom and free time.  As part of this, they are not to use the computer for entertainment purposes.  Further, as a math teacher it is important to relate math topics to real world settings.  This can be done by bringing in relevant math articles or books that are subject related.  In addition, some of the articles could be on topics that students may not, initially, identify as directly related to math.   

2 More Web Sites that are great for students

www.studyisland.com

The studyisland.com website is a great resource for any Math teacher, teaching from 2nd through 12th grade.  Overall, the site is very interactive in nature and incredibly user friendly.  In addition, not only is the site a great source for Math practice but also includes programs for English, Biology, Chemistry, Civics & Economics, US History & Geography, and World History.  As part of this, the activities are lined up with the Maryland Voluntary State Curriculum and Core Learning Goals.  Further, as expected, the activities strengthen skills that are necessary to improve MSA and HSA test scores.

A further review of the site reflects its usefulness in the classroom.  Each section of the site includes a pre-test and a post-test.  As part of this the sections include questions, answers, explanations and lessons that address specific skills that are necessary to master the subject matter, which matches the Maryland VSC and Core Learning Goals.  Further, the website provides immediate feedback to the user and the teacher.  This allows for greater differentiation in the classroom and ultimately improves student understanding.  

Overall, the site is incredibly user friendly and easy to navigate.  As part of this, the page is neatly laid out, which makes navigating from section to section very simple.  The spacing of the lettering and graphics on the page is good and visually appealing. Finally, the page is very interactive in nature adding to the ease of use.  As a teacher, I would confident providing students with exercises from this site.  It is a great resource, easy to use, and connected to the Common Core Standards.

I could use the website in the classroom in several ways.  First, since the website is accessible anywhere, students could be assigned homework on the website.  Since the site is interactive in nature students will be provided with a different mode of instruction instead of the standard text.  Additionally, I could use the program in the classroom to give the students a break from standard instruction.  From time to time, the students could be assigned time in the computer lab to complete problems.  In my opinion, this type of instruction could be very beneficial to students as long as I have a clear objective of what is required from the beginning.  Overall, the site could be an asset in the classroom.  

http://figurethis.org

The website figurethis.org was created by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, in cooperation with the National Action Council for Minorities in Engineering, Widmeyer Communications, and the Learning First Alliance.   The mission of the website is to help families enjoy mathematics outside school through a series of fun and engaging, high-quality challenges.  As part of this, the goal of the website is to help students master higher level math concepts, and assist in problem solving, that are the key to success in work and everyday life.  Further, the website provides information, and skills training, that allows parents to assist their children with the problems presented.  

As part of this, the website presents middle school level students with challenging problems that are fun but skill building, in nature.  As part of this each problem/challenge includes a description of the important math involved, how it is used in the real world, a hint on how to begin the problem, and a solution.  Further, each problem includes a description of some fun facts related to the math concept that is being presented.  

A further review of the website reflects how easy to use and fun the problems/challenges can be.  The site is built around cartoon characters named Polygon, Tessellation, Exponent, Tangent, and Axis.   The characters present the problems/challenges and reflect the nature of the page.  Further, the site includes support materials under the Family Corner tab that assists families including sample questions to ask teachers and administrators about the school setting, information on how to prepare students for their next level of education, and suggestions on how to help with math homework.

Overall, this website could be very useful for students.  For my purposes, I could easily assign problems for the students to work at home.  Further, the students could be required to present their answers to the class.  Given the nature of the site, I believe that this would be fun and interactive for all students.  Additionally, the site provides students with problems/challenges that present real world situations.  As well, the site is very inclusive in nature for the whole family and provides parents with instructions on how they can become involved in their child’s math education.  In reality, every teacher is interested in more parent involvement.  

In what ways does STEM curriculum develop higher level literacy?

Recently, I was speaking with a student's mother at a parent-teacher conference.  We were discussing her son's struggles, or better yet lack of interest, in an Algebra II class.  During the conversation, the student's mother said the following, "I was never good at math, so I guess my son has the same problem."  The bad part was that she was serious and truly believed it.  Wow, that is it?  Are you kidding me?  As many are aware, this is a statement, among others, that math teachers hear all the time.  They go hand and hand with statements like Math is Boring, Science is for Nerds, and I will never use this in my life.

Overall, after discussing the student with the parent and exploring ways that he could improve his grade, I could not help but ask myself a few questions.  First, when do students and parents start thinking like this? And ultimately, since testing has proven that achievement in STEM content areas and higher level literacy are directly linked, what can be done to engage students in math and the other STEM disciplines?

Anyone that has children of their own, or has spent time with small children, understands how curious and creative they are by nature.  In addition, students at the elementary school level have large imaginations and are enthralled with how the world around them works.  For this reason alone, research has shown that the implementation of STEM curriculum should start at the elementary school level.  If this was to occur, it would not be a stretch to assume that some of the misconceptions about math and science could be easily erased. Students would understand that STEM courses are not just about math equations and lab reports. Realistically, STEM curriculum is about solving problems through exploration and discovery.  It is about independent thinking and teaching kids the skills necessary to solve real world problems.  Overall, exploration and discovery leads to engaged students and ultimately self regulated learners.

A further review of STEM curriculum reflects how engaging it would be for elementary school students. STEM problems are open ended and encourage original research, which develops higher level thinking.  As part of this, students would be fully involved in designing, implementing, and testing their solutions.  In the long run, STEM curriculum prepares students to be good decision makers, creative thinkers, and excellent problem solvers. Don't our students deserve that much?

References: 
http://resourcelibrary.compasslearning.com/ContentCenter/ViewAsset/a1e7dcb0-2515-423e-9b36-a2c7979f1b2c

http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/curriculum/2011/10/literacy_stem_ed_see_strong_em.html

2 Additionally Math Related Web Sites that are great for students

www.AAAmath.com

AAAmath.com is a great option for students in kindergarten to 8th grade.  As part of this, the site includes lessons that are grade and math concept specific.  Overall, the lessons are "student centered" and explicitly teach the methods necessary to complete problems on the concepts. Additionally, the site can be used by both struggling students, and those expanding their skills in the lower grades.

In reality, the lessons accessible at AAAmath.com are comprehensive and interactive in nature.  The site contains thousands of pages of lessons and an unlimited amount of problems which can assist students in the mastery of the subject matter.  As is expected, the site provides immediate feedback to the student as they complete problems.

Unlike most sites which contain games and other graphics that can distract students, AAAmath.com is simply designed and content specific.  At the same time, the site does not include worksheets or quizzes which can be threatening in nature.  Instead, students can work independently at home and gain the confidence necessary to improve their math skills on a "student centered" math web site.  As a teacher, I would find it easy to use this site as a resource for struggling students.

illuminations.nctm.org/

The website http://illuminations.nctm.org/ was designed, by the NCTM, to provide standard based resources and materials.  These standard based resources help improve the teaching and learning of mathematics for students ranging from Pre K to 12^th grade.   As part of this, the website is intended for teachers and students and the lessons, activities and games are tied to the Principles and Standards of the NCTM.  The activities and lessons cover the common foundation of mathematics to be learned by all students including Number & Operations, Algebra, Geometry, Measurement, and Data Analysis & Probability. 

The site contains a variety of resources including 107 activities that can be used in the classroom by teachers, or by students at home, to help bring math to life.  As part of this, the activities are grade specific and include full instructions on how to complete them.  Additionally, there is an exploration section in the activity that requires students to explore a real world example, tied to the activity, and answer questions related to their work. 

Finally, the site includes a section that includes 724 math web links that are standard specific.  As expected, the sites include resources for math concepts and topics that are aligned with the NCTM Principles and Standards.  As part of this, the resources include links to lessons and activities that can assist students and teachers in the learning process. 

Overall, the site is incredibly user friendly and easy to navigate.  As part of this, the page is neatly laid out, which makes navigating from section to section very simple.  The spacing of the lettering and graphics on the page is good and visually appealing. Finally, the page is very interactive in nature adding to the ease of use.  As a teacher, I would confident providing students with exercises from this site.  It is a great resource, easy to use, and connected to the Common Core Standards.

In what ways does STEM curriculum develop higher level literacy?

Recent test results have shown that the literacy levels of American students, in 4th grade, is among the highest in the world.  However, by 8th grade, the same levels decrease drastically and our students are below average.  Unfortunately, by 10th grade, it gets even worse and the literacy levels of American students are among the worst in the world.  Given this data, it is easy to understand why recent ACT test results have shown that approximately 50% of high school graduates are not college ready when considering literacy.

Interestingly enough, the same ACT results showed that of the high school graduates that were college ready 65% of them were also math proficient.  Additionally, 31% of the same college ready students were proficient in science.  While these numbers are not "earth shattering" they are a drastic difference from those that were not college ready.  Of those that did not test college ready, only 14% were proficient in math.  Further, only 1% of the students were proficient in science.

In reality, educators at the K-3 level have been successful in teaching students to "learn to read."  However, as the test results have recently shown, students must progress beyond the "learn to read" level.  Overall, for students to excel at the middle school and high school levels they must be able to "read to learn."  Realistically, a large part of being able to "read to learn" is based on a student's ability to gain meaning from context and work through challenging vocabulary.  This is yet another example of why STEM literacy is a better option.  The content that is part of STEM classes builds vocabulary, which is essential to increase literacy, and requires higher level thinking.  A quick review of any state's curriculum guide for math and science reflects the building nature of the content areas.

As the test results have shown, literacy needs to be treated as a journey not a destination.  Interesting enough, math and science are the only subjects that can be described as a journey academically.  Additionally, to improve literacy, students must be taught at an early age that reading to learn is essential.

In conclusion, as our world becomes more technologically advanced, literacy requirements continue to increase.  This comes at a time when math and science skills are more needed in the workplace.  In retrospect, ACT scores have shown that most students proficient in math and science are ready to meet college level literacy demands.  Given this correlation between literacy and STEM proficiency, it makes more sense to increase the emphasis on STEM literacy at the elementary school level.

References:
http://resourcelibrary.compasslearning.com/ContentCenter/ViewAsset/a1e7dcb0-2515-423e-9b36-a2c7979f1b2c

http://blogs.edweek.org/edweek/curriculum/2011/10/literacy_stem_ed_see_strong_em.html

Additional Math Related Web Sites that are great for students

www.math.com

Math.com is a great option for struggling students in subjects ranging from Basic Math to Calculus, and beyond.  As part of this, the site offers a revolutionary approach to the subject matter.  Overall, the site offers students 24/7 access to a tutor that can assist them immediately.  Additionally, the site offers assessments that are easy to use, on-demand courses that target key concepts, and expert answers to specific questions.

Like most math websites, designed for students, math.com offers games and other interactive learning tools that present the subject matter in a "friendly, fun" way.  However, one of the wonderful features of the website is the calculator option.  The feature gives students access to calculators that are helpful with any level of math.  Overall, given the fact that most students do not have access to math calculators at home, this option is beneficial to students and teachers alike.  For instance, the use of this site, will allow teachers to assign homework problems that require graphing and other higher level calculations.

In reality, this website can be used by teachers in a couple ways.  First, as mentioned above, the calculator option allows teachers to assign homework that requires a graphing calculator.  At the same time, it allows students to practice their skills at home.  At present, most students only have access to a calculator at school.

Additionally, the site is quite useful for struggling students.  Given the fact that students have access to a tutor 24/7, teachers can use the site as a resource when assigning homework.  Further, struggling students can be directed to the site to work through the on-demand courses.  Since many math problems can be solved in a variety of ways, it is always beneficial to allow students to see another way of doing things.

www.mathpower.com

Mathpower.com is an award winning website that offers a variety of services to students struggling in Basic Math and Algebra.  In reality, the site is very different from most math web pages for several reasons.  First, the site offers students with study skills and ways to overcome math anxiety during assessments.  Further, it offers students a way to find their own learning style, along with the teaching style of the instructor.  Overall, this is done in a humorous way and the ideas presented are beneficial to students and teachers.

While the site is very different from most math websites, it is important to mention that the site does offer instructional options for struggling students.  As part of this, the site is full of tutorials, assignments, and math videos that can be accessed 24/7.  In addition, the websites offers a forum for discussing questions with a professor on a variety of math topics.

Overall, this site has a specific use that would be great for students and teachers.  For teachers, this site could be used as a means to reveal the ways students learn.  For instance, early in the year, the teacher could require the students to complete an assessment on their learning style and turn it in as homework.  As part of this, the teacher could find their teaching style on the site.  Knowing this information would be beneficial since a teacher could make adjustments to their teaching style to accommodate specific students.  Hopefully, in the long run this will increase student achievement.

Further, the site could be used as a resource for any teacher when dealing with struggling students.  For students experiencing math anxiety, the teacher could present ideas from the website to alleviate this problem. At the same time, the teacher can use ideas from the site to improve study skills.  Ultimately, this site can be used to increase confidence in all students.

STEM Literacy Group Focus Areas

My inquiry group is focusing on STEM Literacy.  Group members will be working on the topics below. 

Jason Goetz - In what ways does STEM curriculum develop higher level literacy?
Michelle Gray - Girls and STEM Literacy
Ashley DiCriscio - The teachers role in STEM Literacy.

Supplementary Books for Algebra I

These three books were picked to assist students in the 8th grade.  The books will be used to ease a student's transition into Algebra I.  Specifically, the books will be used in a unit that is introductory in nature and presents basic algebraic equations.  In addition, the books can be used throughout the Algebra I curriculum.  Overall, the books are suited for students with average ability in mathematics and the concepts are simple in nature.  For instance, Mystery Math, A First Book of Algebra is suited for students between 9-12 years of age.  

Adler, D. A. (2011). Mystery math: a first book of math. New York, NY: Holiday House.
Mystery Math: A First Book of Math


Rappaport, J. (2000). Algebra survival guide. Santa Fe, NM: Singing Turtle Press.
Algebra Survival Guide

Rappaport, J. (2010). Algebra survival guide workbook. Santa Fe, NM: Singing Turtle Press.
Algebra Survival Guide Workbook

Why is STEM literacy a better option for our students?

http://youtu.be/zy4WmiM8lxI

Some experts believe that over the next 10 years approximately 80% of the jobs that will be created in the United States will require math and science skills.  Unfortunately, this is coming at a time when our colleges and universities are producing an ever decreasing number of students that majored in science or math related fields.  Many believe that this has occurred because most students are leaving high school poorly prepared to major in math or science disciplines.  In retrospect, this is largely due to ineffective teaching methods in math and science.  As a result, students are uninterested in the content areas.  This has caused students to major in what they perceive to be "easier" or more interesting majors.  Overall, if this trend continues there will be a significant shortage of qualified workers, in the United States, in fields that require math and science skills.

One of the options being implemented, and funded by our government, in many parts of our country is the idea of STEM literacy.  STEM literacy is a meta-discipline that is based on the combination of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math into one subject.  STEM literacy is driven by problem solving, discovery, exploratory learning, and requires students to actively engage a situation to find its solution.  As can be assumed, STEM literacy is student centered in nature and provides students with real world applications at an early age.

The hyperlink above is an example of a STEM literacy program that has been successfully implemented.  As can be seen from the video, STEM literacy is interactive in nature and is designed to teach the whole student.  It is not built around lectures and just sitting in a classroom behind a desk.  It is based on putting students in situation where they work in teams, or independently, and solve real world problems. In the long run, this creates students that are self-regulated, more innovative, interested in math and science, and better prepared to work in our technology driven economy. Overall, not withstanding math and science, self regulation should be a goal for every student. For that reason alone, all teachers and educators should understand the importance of STEM literacy.

In conclusion, corporations throughout our country are under increased pressure to compete in the global market.  In many cases, our global competitors are producing innovative products that used to be created in the United States.  In the long run, this lack of innovation and product development will lead to fewer high quality American jobs and a less prosperous society.  STEM literacy offers real solutions for this problem and will develop students that can lead America back to relevance in math and science.  Based on where we are at this point, is there a better option?

References: 
http://www.orau.org/leadershipsummit/pdf/abts.pdf
http://www.partnership4learning.org/files/STEM%20Literacy.pdf
http://theapple.monster.com/stem_teachers/articles/9439-stem-ing-the-rising-education-tide
http://www.examiner.com/k-12-in-hartford/stem-literacy-can-the-u-s-afford-not-to-support-it

Two Math Websites for students

http://mathplayground.com/

Math Playground is a website that provides fun and meaningful games for math students. Overall, these games are very engaging and relevant for students ranging from K-12.  As part of this, the website includes interactive games that cover a broad range of concepts including basic math games, word problems, and logic games.  Further, the website covers every subject in the math spectrum including geometry and algebra.  At the same time the site includes an interactive exercise for students, at the high school level, preparing for the SAT.

Besides interactive games, the websites has math videos that students can use to help them better understand topics.  For instance, there is a video that explains to students what a prime numbers is.  The video is very detailed and goes into great depth to explain the concept.  More importantly, some of the videos have been uploaded by peers not just teachers.

http://www.brainpop.com/

Brain Pop is an interactive website that includes fun games and activities that can be used in group settings or on an individual basis.  One of the great features about this website is the fact that it is based on the common core, so any learning done on the site is relevant to current teaching objectives.  In addition, the games and programs are completely compatible with whiteboards, projectors, and Mac/PCs.  Overall, the site is very user friendly and includes programs for students of all ages.

In reality, the games and interactive learning activities can be integrated into any curriculum.  As part of this, the site includes specific games tied to Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry, and other math topics.  Further, the site includes instructional videos on math topics that are confusing to many students.  The videos are very organized and can be used by students to better understand a topic.

More important to teaching in the 21st century, the website is friendly to ELL learners and children with other special needs. As part of this, the site is broken into different segments that cover students of all ages and needs.  For instance, the site includes BrainPOP Jr. (K-3), BrainPOP (4-12), BrainPOP Espanol, and BrainPOP ESL.  As can be seen, this website is a valuable resource for students.

How can I use these websites in the classroom?


Overall, these website can be used in several ways by any math teacher.  Personally, I would use the websites in the classroom to help students better understand the subject matter.  For instance, students could do word problems as part of an independent or group exercise.  In addition, to make homework a little more attractive, problems from the website could be assigned to students.  Further, the videos that explain different topics may be a great option to use when students are just not getting the concept, based on the way I am teaching it.  For these students, maybe hearing an explanation, via a video, may be a better option.  In reality, differentiating teaching methods is important in the inclusive classroom.  Our students are not one size fits all.  Fortunately, web sites like these make things a little easier.  


It is also worth noting that I would personally use the websites to improve my own teaching skills.  The sites are full of ideas for better instruction and the video explanations, of math concepts, are valuable. For instance, the videos could give me insight into different ways to approach a complex math topic.  Overall, as a new teacher, every resource is valuable and should be used.