Bridges Blog Archive for Technology

Since the release of the free Geoboard App, I've used it to represent a variety of visual models. But I especially love its power when it comes to multiplying fractions. While a regular geoboard can be divided into parts to show a fraction, the app takes the visual model a step further with the ability to paint in the part of the fraction that you actually have.

Looking for ways to explore relationships between circumference, radius, diameter and area? Check out The Circle Tool from NCTM Illuminations. You’ll notice three buttons that run along the top of the game window: Intro, Investigation and Problems. With the Intro button selected, you’ll notice an icon of a video camera.

MLC's Number Rack App provides a tech alternative to traditional models such as ten-strips and ten-frames. Let's consider a couple examples.

In the 3rd Grade Bridges Game, "Twenty or Bust", students use ten-strips to add 3 or more numbers as shown:

Kindergarten teachers, have you had the opportunity to try out the Geoboard App with your students? You'll be inspired after watching a video by MrsKlineKindergarten. Her students demonstrate how the app can be used to:

Any Pinterest addicts out there? Count me in. I joined about a year ago, inspired by the abundance of pinners amid the teacher blogging world. The experience has been nothing short of fantastic. And with enthusiasm that's almost palpable (or is that Pinnable?) I'd like to announce the launch of MLC's new Pinterest board!

This Counting by 5s song is sure to get your students up and dancing! As they move to the beat, the catchy tune inspires everyone to practice counting to 100 by 5s. But beware...it's addictive! Try it over break to work off a few of those holiday goodies...

In September, Shelly Scheafer shared First Grade Word Problems that she wrote to align with Common Core State Standards. In a follow-up she writes: