Powtoon

I make use of powerpoint presentations very often. Therefore when I was introduced to Powtoon I found this tool very interesting and innovative to use.

Advantages:

• It is turned instantly into a video
• It is easy to use
• It has a lot of objects to insert

Disadvantages:

• Takes a bit of time until ou get used to how it works
• Time consuming

My examples of different Mind Maps using different tools

As I said in the other post, my favourite one was text2mindmap. The following is one on some of the keywords used in algebra which I intend to use in class as a recap:

I also tried to use mindmups to create a mind map about different polygons:

Finally I also tried to use popplet to discuss with my friends the advantages and disadvantages of these mind maps:

Mind maps vs Concept maps

I used to think that they are the same thing however I realised that there is a small difference that a concept map is more structured and written similar to a sentence. On the other hand a mind map is more scattered so to speak.

I prefered the one entitled 'text2mindmap'. In my opinion it is the simplest to use unlike mindmup, bubble.us and popplet. It's advantages are that it is presented in point form, no need for much preparation beforehand. However there is the disadvantage that you cannot insert images and it is too short for students who prefer more detailed notes.

Pros and Cons of Plickers

I found Plickers as a very useful and engaging tool to use in the classroom. In the classes I am teaching this year, I had the majority of my students mentioning whether we can do quizes instead of tests. So by making use of this app/website I will be both making my students happy as well as covering the objectives on the lessons.

Pros:
Interesting for the students
Engaging due to the use of technology which is not frequent in class
Making summative assessments fun and turned into formative
Being able to know who got the questions right or wrong and address your students accordingly

Cons:
You need an internet connection
Plicker cards needed

Distinguish the use of Google Docs and padlet

Google Docs:

Edit the same document
Highlight and improve someone else's work while being aware who did so
Presented in a neat way

Padlet:

Cannot edit each other's comments
To arrange someone else's work you need to add a new post
Presented in a scattered way

SMAR model - Loci

The following is an SMAR model I tried to design with the topic of Loci:

Name of the assessment: Loci

• Substitution → Representing Loci on GeoGebra

• Augmentation → Students upload their own locus in the form of a photo or a video on a wikispace so other students can comment on each other’s work.

• Modification → Act out a locus (people maths) since loci can be dynamic, students can upload a video of themselves acting it out.

• Redefinition → Loci in real life

SMAR model example on Fractions

The following is an example of an SMAR model that I could relate to in my classroom:

Lesson: Learning Fractions

Original Assignment: Show understanding of fractions on a worksheet by coloring in blocks.

• Substitution: Use an Excel Worksheet to let students “color in” the blocks.
• Augmentation: Use Google Sheet to let students “color in” the blocks, where the teacher can offer feedback directly on Google Sheet.
• Modification: Use Google Sheet and direct students to online examples and supplementary learning materials for areas that they might struggle with.
• Redefinition: Use a Fractions App instead (here’s a handful of examples for iOS devices).