The free graphing calculator has a tab where students can type in equations, look at the graph, see a table of x and y values, and find the intersection of two functions. Although the website it set up a little bit different than a typical TI-83 or TI-84, the buttons are similar and students would get used to the terminology used on a calculator. After looking at a few different graphing calculator websites, this one seemed to be the easiest to use. I would definitely refer students to this website when giving them a homework assignment that they would greatly benefit from using a calculator.
Another great website for students in Algebra or Geometry is http://www.mathwarehouse.com. There is a column that has many different areas of study that students can click on, including complex numbers, distance formula, FOIL, and many others. However, my favorite part of the site is on the right side that has interactive math examples. These are very interesting because students are able to see how angles, side lengths, slopes, and many more measurements change as they move the points.
I would use this site by letting students move the points around on the interactive examples and have them come up with a possible theorem or principle related to how the measurements are changing and adding up. It would be a great introduction to many different topics. I would also use the site as a reference for any student needing extra help on a certain topic.
Ashley, as you are aware I have expressed my concern over the calculator topic. Overall, asking parents to buy $100 calculators is a tough sell. I have heard people say that requiring them is the only way. Well that might work in certain parts of our state but in other areas $100 is a lot of money. Overall, this site is awesome. It allows Math teachers to assign homework problems that require the use of a graphing calculator. At this point, it just is not an option to assign the problems students need to be mastering. As you mentioned, calculators can be used on the HSA. Additionally, as the HSA moves to Algebra II the use of calculators will become more essential. A website like this one is a great option.
ReplyDeleteThe first site you mention, is a site that I needed when I was in high school. This is a great site because not everyone has $100 dollars to spend on a calculator. Also, using this site can allow students without calculators at home to become familiar with using the calculator. Now, the students do not have to wait to get to class in order to use learn how to use the calculators. I also agree with Jason about the homework assignments, and now an excuse can not be I do not have a calculator at home.
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