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.