Fraction Apps

Today we used two different apps in class to test our knowledge of fractions.  We used the Thinking Blocks by Math Playground to help us with problem solving with fractions.  Students have to use models to help build the concrete understanding of what they are trying to find in the question.  This gives great problem solving practice as we close in on the EOGs. Students can use the space around the problem as a whiteboard to do their math work.  This app is very interactive and highly engaging!

The other app we used is Fractions by Brainingcamp.  Students work through activities finding common denominators, adding and subtracting fractions, multiplying fractions, etc. This app is differentiated with lessons, manipulatives, questions, and challenges for all levels for students. These problems also appear as though they are on a whiteboard where students can do their work right on the screen.

This app even helps students see what the common denominator is of these fractions. Students are loving this app!

First/Fourth Grade: Digital Learning Share

My first grade students and Ms. Collins' fourth grade students shared how they use digital learning tools in their classrooms. To begin, the 1st grade students taught the 4th graders how they use linoit by posting information about themselves (name, age, favorite thing to do). 

Next, we practiced using linoit as a way to share our thoughts during our read aloud. The 1st graders have been reading Fancy Nancy: Nancy Clancy: Super Sleuth. 
Ms. Collins' 4th graders showed the 1st graders how to share their thoughts (connections, questions, inferences, etc.) during our read-aloud. They did a wonderful job!

Finally the 4th grade students shared their favorite digital learning tool to their 1st grade buddy. The fourth graders shared; story kit, Discovery Education: Board Builder, Aww white board, Big Universe, etc. We even had one 4th grade student present on the SMARTboard how she uses board builder. We are hoping to have more shared learning experiences for our First/Fourth grade buddies using technology! 

Linoit in 4th grade

We started our unit on fractions today.  As an introduction, I created a Linot for students to finish my sentence of "A fraction is...". It was a very easy way to gauge prior knowledge and see exactly where we needed to start.   We used manipulatives and devices during the lesson.  By the end, students did another Linoit board to show learning of fractions and decomposing a fraction.

4th Grade Science Activity - Magnets

Ms. Dee sent her students on a collaborative webquest. The students had to work together to find the answers using their device.

4th Grade Science Activity - Magnets and Electricty

Mrs. Collins' class researched electricity and magnets using pre-selected sites. They were responsible for reporting their findings to the rest of the class.