Math Applets - Pre K - Grade 2

The math applet that I reviewed for the Pre K - Grade 2 level deals with learning number relations and properties of numbers. To complete this lesson students use calculators and hundreds boards to display these number patterns. In summation, the lesson requires students to compare counting sequences, they can generate these sequences using both their calculators and their hundreds boards. Students were asked to count in 2's, 5's, and 10's. This sequence could be done on the calculator, and show on the hundreds board where the students came to the number 100 when using these specific sequences. To further extend the lesson, student were asked to think of other numbers and use them in the same style of sequence once again representing it on their calculators and their hundreds board. Specifically, one group chose to use the number 3, showing that they did not reach one hundred on their hundreds boards. The goal of the applet was to allow students to recognize the patterns in sequences of numbers along with making predictions of what numbers would be marked off on the hundreds boards.

I found this applet to be beneficial and informative initially. It allows students to learn the sequences of numbers in multiple formats, and allows them a chance to collaborate and explore independently by plugging their own numbers in. It also provides a good opportunity for students to use additional tools to make predictions and further extend their knowledge of number patterns. The one outlying flaw I can see is the limited nature of the overall use of the applet. From what I can see, students would only be able to repeat this process for a certain amount of numbers and the overall process may become repetitive after a certain amount of time, resulting in students not being satisfied with the task.

http://standards.nctm.org/document/eexamples/chap4/4.5/index.htm