Get the Math

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Review Overview

A. Instruction - 6.8

B. Design - 7.5

C. Engagement - 6.6

7

Get the Math: A Resource for Algebra

Summary : Teaching Algebra’s Relevancy

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Get the Math is a website designed to demonstrate how algebra is used outside of the classroom. Using videos coupled with challenges, the website allows users to view a demonstration of how different professionals (e.g., musicians, restaurateurs, designers, athletes, and more) use math as part of their work. Included in each video segment is a “Take the Challenge” option. With it, users are presented a math problem based on the video, and they have to solve it by making a calculation. Get the Math also provides lesson plans for each video that are aligned to the Common Core, which are intended to help integrate how this website is used in the classroom.

Instructional Ideas

As an enrichment activity, teachers can divided their class into groups and assign each group a different video and “Take the Challenge” to complete. Each group will then have to view the video and complete the challenge correctly. After all groups have completed the work, teachers can have them present the challenge and their solution for it to their classmates.
Once students understand the design of this website, teachers can create a project that models the videos and challenges in this website. To do so, teachers will first have to divide students into different groups and then assign each group a mathematical concept. The groups will then have to study the topic, so they build a deep understanding of it. Next, the groups will have to record a video along with commentary that demonstrates how that mathematical concept is used outside of the classroom. The video will conclude with a question related to the demonstration that requires students to use the mathematical concept in order to solve it. The groups can make their video using a Movie Maker app and then post a finished video to a class website. If teachers assign this project annually, they will grow a large collection of these videos.
When introducing a new mathematical concept, teachers can show a video from this website to their class as a springboard into the lesson. As homework, teachers can require students to solve the “Take the Challenge” feature. To begin the next class period, teachers can have students share and discuss their solutions.

A1. Rigor
A2. 21st Century Skills
A3. Conn. to Future Learning
A4. Value of Errors
A5. Feedback to Teacher
A6. Level of Material
A7. Cooperative Learning
A8. Accom. of Individual Diff.

B1. Ability to Save Progress
B2. Platform Integration
B3. Screen Design
B4. Ease of Use
B5. Navigation
B6. Goal Orientation
B7. Information Presentation
B8. Media Integration
B9. Cultural Sensitivity