Math Games Online and Interactive

Posted by David Wetzel

Interactive Online Math

PBS has developed online math games called Math Active, which allow students interact with the each game as they study specific math concepts. There are 31 games and are designed for middle school math. These games focus on Protractors - Angle Action.

All interactive math games involve solving problems and include teacher directions. Some games have both Spanish and Navajo language versions.

Online Math

The following are examples of what type of games are available on the Math Active website.

Cones, Cylinders, & Spheres

Classify prisms, pyramids, cones, and cylinders by base shape and lateral surface shape. Identify the net (two-dimensional representation) which corresponds to a rectangular prism, cone, or cylinder. Recognize the three dimensional figure represented by a net.

Pythagorean Theorem

Solve applied problems using the Pythagorean Theorem. Solve problems using special case right triangles.

Transformation Trio

Students observe many examples of rotation, translation, and reflection transformations. Students using problem solving techniques for selecting the called-for type of transformation.

Resources

Math Active

Math Teaching Strategies

Tips for Teaching Variables and Equations

Posted by David Wetzel

Math Variables and Equations

Here is one method for reinforcing middle school math terms such as variables and equations. The key is to make it visual. Start with the basics, use colors, and take it one step at a time.

Reinforcing Variables and Equations

Materials:

• unlined white paper
• black marker
• red marker

1. Begin with a simple, one-step equation. Use a black marker to write “n + 2 = 5”.

• Student must solve for “n”

Discussion:

• What is the opposite of +2?” (-2)
• What you do to one side of the equation, you must do to the other side

Show:

• n + 2 – 2 = 5 – 2 (write “- 2 “on both sides in red)
• n = 3

2. Next, practice a one-step subtraction equation

Show:

• n – 3 = 6 (using black marker)
• n – 3 + 3 = 6 + 3 (write “+3” on both sides in red)
• n = 9

3. Next, move on to two-step equations

Show:

• 5y – 10 = 5 9 (using black marker)

Discussion:

• You must get “y” by itself
• What is the opposite of - 10?  (+10)
• What you do to one side of the equation, you must do to the other side

Show:

• 5y – 10 + 10 = 5 + 10 (write “+10” to both sides in red)
• 5y = 15

Discussion:

• 5y means “5 times y”
• What is the opposite of “times”? (divide)
• To get y by itself, divide both sides by 5.

Show:

• 5y = 15 (write “/ 5” on both sides in red)
• 5y / 5 = 15 / 5
• y = 3

Additional Tips

By using colors, students can easily see and review the steps required to solve one and two-step equations.Keep practicing until the process of solving simple equations becomes automatic.

Equations quickly become more complex, requiring several steps. Be sure your middle-schooler has a concrete understanding of the basics so s/he is able to move ahead with confidence.

Resources

12 Tips for Solving Word Problems

Illuminations - An Interactive Math Website for Learning Math