In 7th grade math, students are expected to learn and be able to solve multi-step equations. This concept is very difficult for students as it requires learning new content that builds on material that students already know and applies both to solving multi-step equations. Entering 7th grade math students typically understand basic equations for example x + 2 = 5 and the value for x is 3. When asking students how they went about processing and solving this specific equation they explain that you just know that adding 2 and 3 makes 5. When asking students if they used the thought process of inverse operations they look at me with confusion. In 7th grade math the big idea and ways we want students to solve equations is to solve multi-step equations using inverse operations, solving for the unknown variable and balancing out each side of the equation.
The transformation I would like to see in students for this unit is to have them successfully solve multi-step equations knowing the important steps and how it relates to what they need to know in a real life situation for their future. The Common Core state standards expect students to solve “real-life and mathematical problems using numerical and algebraic expressions and equations.” With the DreamIT proposal, I would like students to work in groups to solve a real-life math problem and outline a multi-step solution to the problem. Technology will be used for students to present their problem and solution through an iMovie. Students in math always want to know and ask the question, “why do I need to know this for the future?” This project requires students to apply math content to real life situations. By integrating technology into this unit and connecting it to the content students need to learn they will have a deeper understanding of solving multi-step equations and relating it to real-life situations.
Through this DreamIT proposal I will be integrating content with technology. I will teach the students how to use the basic tools of iMoive. I will also use technology such as SmartBoard, document camera, and Internet to teach the math content. Manipulatives such as hands-on equation kits, and working with partners to solve multi-step equations in real life situations are other direct instruction tools I will use with this unit. To evaluate the success of this integration in the classroom I will provide students with a rubric of expectations of the iMovie that require taking and uploading videos, insertings text, music and graphic design. The rubric will also expect students to include math content based on solving multi-step equations in their presentation.
The transformation I would like to see in students for this unit is to have them successfully solve multi-step equations knowing the important steps and how it relates to what they need to know in a real life situation for their future. The Common Core state standards expect students to solve “real-life and mathematical problems using numerical and algebraic expressions and equations.” With the DreamIT proposal, I would like students to work in groups to solve a real-life math problem and outline a multi-step solution to the problem. Technology will be used for students to present their problem and solution through an iMovie. Students in math always want to know and ask the question, “why do I need to know this for the future?” This project requires students to apply math content to real life situations. By integrating technology into this unit and connecting it to the content students need to learn they will have a deeper understanding of solving multi-step equations and relating it to real-life situations.
Through this DreamIT proposal I will be integrating content with technology. I will teach the students how to use the basic tools of iMoive. I will also use technology such as SmartBoard, document camera, and Internet to teach the math content. Manipulatives such as hands-on equation kits, and working with partners to solve multi-step equations in real life situations are other direct instruction tools I will use with this unit. To evaluate the success of this integration in the classroom I will provide students with a rubric of expectations of the iMovie that require taking and uploading videos, insertings text, music and graphic design. The rubric will also expect students to include math content based on solving multi-step equations in their presentation.