SMART EXCHANGE ACTIVITIES

#1. Graphing Inequalities (http://exchange.smarttech.com/details.html?id=a3a4423a-3c9c-4e16-ba09-40432bcdc628)

Grade Level: 6-9
Subject: Pre Algebra, Algebra I

How it will be implemented:

Chapters 1-4 in our Algebra I book are all repeated topics that the students have learned in pre algebra in the middle school. However, they are all topics that are also in the 9th grade standards and topics that students tend to have trouble with. Graphing inequalities is one of these. I liked this particular SMART file because the first thing it does is has the students review what each symbol means. This is also a place that I would be able to write the verbal phrases that go along with each symbol. Next, there is an interactive number line. Students are able to come up to the SMART board and graphing an inequality using an open or closed dot, as well as a portion of the number line. The file then goes in to compound inequalities and students are able to see the difference between the words AND and OR in math. I plan on using this in class next week :)

#2. TESSELLATIONS (http://exchange.smarttech.com/details.html?id=6ab082cd-a639-4ecf-9543-eeeedf23e0dc)

Grade Level: 6-10
Subject: Geometry

How it will be implemented:

Each spring I have my Geometry students do a tessellation project. This follows out unit on transformations. This SMART file starts by explaining what a tessellation is and the different ways in which a tessellation can be formed. It then gives the students several examples where they have to figure out what type of transformation is being used. Next, it shows the students how to create a stencil, creatively draw on the stencil, and then use the stencil to tessellate a piece of paper. This file would be a great introduction to the tessellation project I do in my own classroom.



#3. Multiplying Polynomials (http://exchange.smarttech.com/details.html?id=bad49573-022b-412b-a3a6-c6b18c400c32)

Grade Level: 9-12
Subject: Algebra I, Algebra II

How it will be implemented:

Near the end of the year, my Algebra I students learn how to multiply polynomials of all sizes. When I teach this, I like to teach them using FOIL and distribution. However, I am recognizing that my high school students in recent years are the first wave of kids that learned lattice multiplication in elementary school. This SMART file teaches multiplication of polynomials using the box method, which is similar to the concept used in lattice multiplication. I also use a math program every Friday called Carnegie, and it also uses the box method. I thought it would be nice for the students to see this method as well as the distribution method in order to give them some options.