Minute to Win it Circuits.....Move and Learn

Yesterday I made a math problem so that it took up one whole page of typing paper.  I cut it up into 6 equal pieces that were approximately 3 by 3 inches.  I put it a random order and put a paper clip on it.  I did this for 5 problems in all and 2 sets of each for a total of 10 questions.  I have 20 students in my class.  So I had my students work in pairs.  It is real easy to cut these problems up with a paper cutter. See the above cut out lines that I took with the problem.

Then I put the 5 stations with 2 sets of the same problem around the room.  Four people, or two pairs of partners would be at each station.  I would then have them start on the problem and set the timer for ONE MINUTE.  The partners together would have to unscramble the pieces and then solve the problem.  They would write their answer down on their paper.  Once they were done, they could check the answer that is provided at each station.  After the minute was over and students had checked their answers, I told them to rotate.  They went to the next station and we did the process all over again.

I was happy with the outcome because they seemed to enjoy trying to figure out the puzzle and do the math.  It also helps the students to MOVE and LEARN.  They are moving after each problem. 

Clicker Circuits

My colleague Tony Schlorff made a lesson for our Introduction to Algebra Team. It was a Smart Response 10 question review. I used it the other day and it worked great. He has the questions set up all over the room. They are numbered. The students each take a clicker and log in with their ID. They then can walk around to any problem they choose. They then put their answer at the appropriate number on in the clicker. They then answer all 10 questions. They are constantly MOVING around the room to go to each question. Once they get all 10 questions, they submit their answers. They will then get a chance to see which problems are correct and which are not. Most importantly, I get a can get a printout of the types of questions that were most missed. I also get a idea from tagging my objectives which objective was most missed. I know now which problems I need to work on for the next review.

If you haven't used the CLICKER system, you should try it. It is a great way to get instant feedback on my students learning.

Another thing that I can do is identify my students in thirds for the next review. This little review sets up well for differentiated learning groups for the next day.

If you are interested in looking at the smartboard notebook document click here.

If you would like to see the document as a PDF click here.