Blog #2 - Creation App Mini Lesson!
Shape Detectives - Identifying Different Shapes!
Grade 1 Mathematics
HEY FRIENDS:)
Teaching our Shape Detectives lesson reminded me of how powerful it can be to make math hands-on, playful, and connected to the real world. Working with my group, I saw how collaboration and creativity can turn a simple concept like identifying shapes, into something more engaging and memorable for students. What stood out to me most is how easily students can build understanding when they are encouraged to see shapes not just on a worksheet, but in the world around them!
Moving forward, I see great potential in using digital tools like the Moose Math App to help advance student learning and engagement. The Lost and Found game within this app is a perfect way for students to practice shape recognition in a fun, interactive way that feels like play but also reinforces the key concepts at hand. I imagine using the app as an interactive station in math centers, allowing students to build independence while also giving me a chance to check in with small groups. The app also provides opportunities for differentiation, as students can progress at their own pace while still feeling successful.
I could see myself using this app within my Grade 4 practicum this year. For example, it could be a fun math warm-up or review activity for students who need extra practice with foundational geometry concepts. It could also provide an engaging option for early finishers, helping them strengthen their skills as the games go by levels, while still feeling successful. I would also play around more with the app and see what other games it offers and how I could incorporate it for other math lessons to make concepts more fun for my students!
This experience reinforced for me that at any math level doesn’t have to feel intimidating for students, it can be something students actively explore and enjoy. By blending group work, real-world connections, and digital tools, I can help foster curiosity and confidence within math learning for my students:)
Hey Michelle, thanks for sharing!!
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading how you discussed how you can see yourself using the Moose Math app within your grade 4 practicum this year. I wonder what type of lessons you would plan, and the game(s) you would create on this app in relation to the lesson.
I really liked how you also emphasized on how this experience reinforced to you that any math level doesn't have to feel stressful or intimidating for students' but can be something they can become engaged with to explore within their learning, as the game, (or many other kid friendly apps as well), are very much so great options for this :) I enjoyed reading how you mentioned blending group work, and digital tools, as you can use these supports in building upon students' confidence, and to support them in fostering a love for learning. This is also something I have been working on as well within my practicum classes so far! My question/wonder is, what is another app you would use and what type of lesson would you want it to follow?
Hi Michelle! I love how you dug deeper to recognize how you can bring this into your grade 4 classroom. I also appreciate that you emphasized how math can feel intimidating for students at any grade level, and that adding a fun activity like Moose Math can spark engagement and excitement. I'm very excited to see how continue to integrate play into your math lesson plans. My only question is how you plan to integrate this into your grade 4 classroom while also ensuring that students who are already working at grade level remain engaged. Thank you for sharing!
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