Math Lesson Plan: Function Machines

My lesson is on math functions. To add technology to this lesson, I would create a SMART Board template with the function machines. This would enable the students to have a fun hands-on experience working with math functions. I think that by visually and physically working with the math problems, the students will gain a greater understanding of math functions.

Another change that would include technology and increase fun for this lesson would be to adjust the anticipatory set from drawing a function machine to having the kids dance to one of their favorite math songs, "Count by Fives" and then transition into how counting by fives is a function- add five. This would lead into our lesson on function machines and would add technology into the lesson.

By adding both these technology components, it would also increase the equipment required. A computer and SMART Board would both be necessary. The song would be played on the computer via iTunes.

Adding technology to this lesson could be a distraction, but I think that by opening with the song, the kids will have the opportunity to wiggle some energy out and then be able to focus a little more on the actual math. Some would argue that by adding technology, the math is overshadowed. However, I believe that if done well, then the SMART Board template can only add to the success of this lesson as students will be more intrigued and therefore more engaged in the math!

While adding technology to this lesson significantly increases the teacher's prep time, I believe it also significantly increases the students' interest in the lesson. Through the technology, learners who are kinesthetic will be more engaged than if there were no technology component.

This lesson will touch on many of the NETS for students. NETS #1 will be covered as students will use the SMART Board to solve math problems and will therefore "identify trends and forecast possibilities" (1.d). Nets #2 will be covered when the students contribute to the class to "solve problems" on the SMART Board (2.d). NETS #5 will be integrated in this lesson as students will "advocate and practice safe, legal, and responsible use of information and technology" and as they will individually and collectively "exhibit a positive attitude toward using technology that supports collaboration, learning, and productivity" as they work on the SMART Board (5.a, 5.b). Finally, NETS #6 will be met as students will use the SMART Board to complete math equations and therefore will come to "understand and use technology systems" (6.a).

To access this math lesson via Google docs click here.