Geometer sketchpad using projector and Imac

Decemeber 13 and 14 I had two great days. I was able to easily project my introduction to as software package called Geometer sketchpad. Students were able to see the first lesson and design a geometric figure to my specifications using the software. None of this would have been possible had it not been for the projector and Imac that I have been so privileged to use and learn. Both days in the computer lab the students were engaged and working very hard to animate their "Mr. Triangle." On Monday the students will lead the class with short cut methods for proving triangles congruent using the computer and projector in the classroom.

Thing # 5 RPC

At our meeting on December 12 we looked at the research calculator. Although I have not planned a lesson and directed its use in my classroom I do have a better understanding of it as a powerful tool. Highland Science teacher extrodiniar did an excellent job of showing us how to incorporate this into a project. What a great guiding quest...alternative fuel sources. I want to be like John. I am considering a Geometry Research project where students investigate one aspect of geometry. I could easily work this in for mid Tri2 or Tri 3. The calculator may be more useful from the teachers aspect particularly for shorter projects. Karen and Leslie did a great job of leading us through this extensive tool.
The other item we talked about was the rubistar to generate rubrics. This was cool since I had just created one for a project in my algebra class. Its again one of those sites that one has to use many times before it would become quick and easy.

Thing #

I was able to show my advisory a cool dvd on possiblities in life. I once again a had my projector and computer ready for class discussion and display. We also watched an intertaining YouTube puppet show with Harry Potter. We continued our research and keep the students informed of the research engines on connect St. Paul. In my advisory we looked into trusses since we were studying triangles. We looked at the Star-Tribune pictures and history of the 35w bridge. We even were able to look at the new plans for the bridge. This created a healthy discussion in my Geometry class. In Algebra we took a look at YouTube Ma and Pa kettle do Math. Students found it very entertaining since we had just finished studying percents and proportions. I still have an adjustment to set-up and take down each day. It is good to use the video chunks to enhance the class discussion.

Thing #

I am happy to say that I have done one power point presentation in my class. I did not however write the power point. It was provided with the HOLT materials for the mathematics curriculum. I will create my own slide show soon. I must say it was easy to run with the remote and clicker for the slides. My students appreciated the change and it allowed for a deeper discussion of the functions we were studying. A couple of my colleagues noticed the set up. I have finally got the projector on a cart so that it is easier to see the projection on the screen. They were interested and a little skeptical as to whether it was worth all the set up and tear down time. Like anything, the more you pracitce the less scary it becomes to teach a lesson in this manner.