Got Legs?

Then you've got no excuses! Get out there and do something challenging.

Today!



Aaron 'Wheelz' Fotheringham - Wheelchair Action Sports from Unit Clothing on Vimeo.

Angle Sums of Any Polygon

I've created a couple of very short tutorials to assist students in using Sketchpad to investigate lesson 3.2 from Stretching and Shrinking. Here is the sketch to go along with them: Download Sketch



Angle Sums - Tia's Method from (Chris) on Vimeo.



Angle Sums - Cody's Method from (Chris) on Vimeo.

Calculation Nation!

Calculation Nation^® uses the power of the Web to let students challenge opponents from anywhere in the world. At the same time, students are able to challenge themselves by investigating significant mathematical content and practicing fundamental skills. The element of competition adds an extra layer of excitement.

“The games on Calculation Nation^® provide an entertaining environment where students can explore rich mathematics,” said Jim Rubillo, Executive Director of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM). “Through these games, students are exposed to the same mathematical topics that they see in class as well as those that are recommended in Curriculum Focal Points.”

What Do Third Graders Know About Addition?

Mr. Birch's third graders have been putting together a list of statements they believe to be true about addition. Here is what they have so far:

What do we know about addition?

1.  Numbers usually get larger.

2.  You are putting things together.

3.  Adding sign is +

4.  Find the total.

5.  How many all together?

6.  What is the sum?

7.  Addends can be added up in any order to the sum.

8.           7   ----addend ------     5
            +5   --- addend ------- + 7
           12  ----  sum     -------  12

What do other third graders think about this list? If you'd care to add something, or have any questions for us, please leave a comment!




I have a question about the first item on their list. Mr. Birch's students suggest that numbers usually get larger with addition. Can you give an example of when the sum gets smaller???

Motorcycles, Math, and Mistakes

First Start from (Chris) on Vimeo.

Some might think that the only math in the minds of bikers heading to Sturgis revolves around miles per hour and motel rates. When things go wrong, though mathematics is often the culprit. And just as reliably - part of the solution.

Two weeks ago, my engine stuck a valve. When I lifted the rocker covers, I found enough evidence to warrant a complete top-end overhaul. There was plenty of good math involved!