Discovering Calculus in the Classroom using Technology!
My students need calculators, classroom activities, and wireless technology for lessons and explorations, in addition to basic math classroom supplies.
Math is both an exciting and challenging field of study. The discovery and problem solving that happens in my classroom builds on that excitement and helps to conquer those challenges. Technological tools amplify our ability to discover the laws and logic of the universe.
Our school is a typical suburban high school that meets the needs of a wide range of students.
Some of my students are highly successful and motivated. Some of my students struggle with basic concepts.
Many of my Calculus students tell me that Calculus is the first math class that was really interesting to them. I think that is because the concepts are difficult and complex and for the first time they are challenged. My Pre-Algebra students have mostly struggled throughout school. Some of them leave my classroom having experienced success for the first time in a math class.
The challenge in teaching both of these groups of students is to meet them where they are and bring excitement and understanding of the concepts to their learning experience. Both groups thrive on discovering new ideas through activities in the classroom. So we discover! And then we apply the concepts we learn to new situations.
My Project
Technology aids discovery by allowing math to become dynamic. Calculus is the "mathematics of change", and students need to understand and show understanding of concepts numerically, analytically, graphically, and verbally.
With the Exploring Calculus with Geometer's Sketchpad module, my students will be able to gain a better understanding of the fundamentals of Differential and Integral Calculus. They will dynamically control the number of subintervals in a partition and see the area measurement change instantaneously, or investigate changes of position and velocity, leading to an exploration of rates of change and limits at infinity.
Both graphing and non-graphing calculators will allow my students to explore the relationship between the graphs of an equation, its derivative, and its second derivative as the original equation changes.
An iPad will allow the class to create and express their understanding of Calculus by creating video presentations for their classmates.
These tools will enable us to use technology to a far greater degree in the classroom.
Each student will have individual access and we will even be able to use innovative techniques such as flipping the classroom.
Focus in High School Mathematics: Reasoning and Sense Making: Algebra
• Nasco
$27.95
1
$27.95
Top Shelf Calculus
• Nasco
$21.95
1
$21.95
Swingline 747 Stapler Black
• Quill.com
$16.14
1
$16.14
Pkg. of 12 Clearview Rulers
• Nasco
$4.65
3
$13.95
Reteaching Math - Algebra Readiness
• Nasco
$13.45
1
$13.45
Math Puzzle Book - Algebra Antics
• Nasco
$11.75
1
$11.75
iPad Mini 3 Case Cover, FYY Detachable Rotating Leather Case Stand Cover with Velcro Hand Strap and Card Slots for iPad Mini 3 Black (With Auto Wake/Sleep Feature)
• Amazon
$8.88
1
$8.88
Bargains Depot® [0.18-inch Rubber Tip Series] 2Packs Stylus (Blue & Black) --- (length: 5.5", tips: 0.18"Diameter) SILM / ACCURATE / THINNER TIP Capacitive Stylus/styli Universal Touch Screen Pen for all touch screen Tablets & Cell Phones with 6 Extra Replaceable Soft Rubber Tips - 2PCS in one Package
• Amazon
$5.99
1
$5.99
Materials cost
$2,578.44
Vendor shipping charges
$18.25
Sales tax
$0.00
3rd party payment processing fee
$38.68
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$2,665.37
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$470.36
Total project goal
$3,135.73
How we calculate what's needed
Total project goal
$3,135.73
1 Donor
-$3,135.73
Donations toward project cost
-$2,665.37
Donations to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Ludema and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.