Teachers First - Thinking Teachers Teaching Thinkers

Utilizing the census to teach statistics using real-world information and data is the focus of the conversation in this article shared by EdSurge. Applying real-world data, such as census data, in the lessons helps students develop critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of their communities. In addition, this article shares various tools and resources to access and analyze census data, including online databases and mapping software.

tag(s): census (13), data (151), statistics (121)

What is a Statistical Question is a standards-based teacher's guide for providing lessons to instruct students on creating and identifying statistical questions. During the activity, students determine if the questions are statistical or not and then use the provided Radio Set Ownership Map and the United States Map for students to explore statistical questions and their features. During the final portion of the lesson, students write statistical questions based on data learned in the previous activity.

tag(s): census (13), data (151), statistics (121)

Learn the basics of citizen science and find ideas for projects and events for beginners and experienced scientists at the Citizen Science Month site. Begin by scrolling down to the Foundations of Citizen Science Tutorial to learn the basics of citizen science and earn a digital badge upon completing the module. Follow-up modules are available to extend learning in data literacy, using libraries as hubs, and more. Other information on this site includes a database of science projects, a library network with free resources for creating an event, and a calendar of upcoming events. Registration isn't required to view information on the site; however, creating a free account is required to complete the tutorials and access the complete database of science projects.

tag(s): citizen science (27), data (151), ecology (103), engineering (129), genetics (80), inquiry (24), medicine (57), psychology (65), statistics (121), STEM (297)

Spinner Wheel isn't just your ordinary customizable spinner; it offers the ability to include several spinners to use simultaneously. Add spinners and customize colors, text, select images, and themes. Customize backgrounds by color or select images from Unsplash, reviewed here. Creating an account isn't necessary, but it allows you to save and share wheels. Scroll down the page for complete directions and a selection of examples shared for inspiration on using this resource. .

tag(s): preK (271), probability (99), statistics (121), Teacher Utilities (198)

This interesting site features a look at major population changes in the United States from 1790 through 2010. Begin with the big picture, an animated image featuring population change per square mile over time. Scroll down through the site for additional maps featuring populations changes due to the Gold Rush and railroads, the Civil War, and America's infatuation with cars among others. Scroll further down to choose from links to maps by individual decades, regional population maps, and additional facts and data of different counties throughout the U.S.

tag(s): 1800s (75), 1900s (72), 20th century (62), civil war (139), data (151), gold rush (15), migration (45), native americans (109), population (51), railroads (14), STEM (297)

Tuva offers a collection of data sets related to a variety of subjects and content. The free version offers 15 data sets including lessons with topics including United States Presidents and Weather Balloon Data. Find the free data sets by choosing the Content Library link then using the filter for the 15 Free materials. Choose your topic to see an overview, then access the data. Drag and drop attributes to create and view graphs. Each set includes a large selection of data points to view in a variety of formats. For example, choose to view data in different forms of graphs, including pie charts, dot plots, or line graphs. Each set also includes a variety of activities used by teachers and available to assign to students. View the free data sets without having to register; however, registration is required to create, assign, and use the site's activities.

tag(s): charts and graphs (171), data (151)

Open Middle is a terrific resource to find challenging math problems for all grade levels. The problems on this site offer multiple options for finding the solution. Many initially appear to be easy; however, they become more complex as they are solved. Use links at the top of the page to find problems by grade level and concept or use filters to browse by Common Core Standards. Each question includes a hint when necessary and answers.

tag(s): logic (161), problem solving (233), statistics (121)

Mathematical Thinking for English Language Learners contains 14 math tasks designed for middle school students. Each task includes five support tools: warm-ups, sentence starters & frames, word chats, support notes, and a Spanish translation of the task. Tasks focus upon geometry concepts such as area and shapes. Download individual tasks in PDF format using the links provided.

tag(s): area (53), geometric shapes (135), measurement (122), rotation (3), tangrams (8)

We know our own lifetimes are but a tiny hiccup in the long history of the Earth. But what HAS happened since we were born? The BBC will tell you. Simply enter your date of birth (using the day/month/year format) and some other information (you can choose either metric or Imperial/US measurement), and a wonderful series of charts appears! How many times has your heart beat? How old would you be on Venus? How has the Earth changed since you were born? How has humankind changed the Earth since you were born? How many volcanoes have erupted? What's happened to the sea levels? How many endangered species have become extinct? This site is created by the BBC (United Kingdom). American English speakers may notice some slights spelling differences. It is best viewed in Chrome, Firefox and Internet Explorer 10 and above.
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tag(s): climate change (99), earth (184), earth day (60), earthquakes (46), planets (113), writing prompts (61)

Dandy Candies provides open-ended practice and exploration with problem solving and measurement skills, grouped into three "Acts." View a short animated video exploring different options for packaging candy. Then solve four questions about the best way to pack candy. Act Three offers solutions along with a link to all packaging options. Click on the Prologue to view links to standards. Be sure to click on Teacher Notes to view more information on the different steps.

tag(s): area (53), measurement (122), perimeter (20), problem solving (233), volume (34)

Prepare your students for success with Common Core Math skills at this excellent site presented by Khan Academy. 50,000 unique questions cover conceptual understanding, procedural fluency, and real world applications. Use the link to "Browse Our New Common Core Map" to find interactive math problems for grades K-12. Each activity lists the number of skills and problems available for each level. View step by step solutions to each problem. Many problems even include video explanations. The Smarter Balanced Assessment Consortium and Illustrative Mathematics partnered with Khan Academy to ensure the rigor of materials and full alignment to the Common Core Standards. Learn more about Khan Academy reviewed here. Videos are hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable.

tag(s): addition (129), angles (52), base ten (5), coordinates (15), counting (60), data (151), division (98), equations (119), factoring (25), fractions (160), functions (52), geometric shapes (135), measurement (122), mixed numbers (8), multiplication (122), negative numbers (13), number lines (33), number sense (69), polynomials (20), prime numbers (26), probability (99), quadratics (27), rounding (8), square roots (15), statistics (121), subtraction (110), transformations (12), vectors (16), whole numbers (9)

The Mathematics Assessment Project aims to bring life to the Common Core Standards by offering assessments for use in middle school and high school classrooms. Assessments are both summative tests or tasks and classroom performance based. Classroom research and feedback led to the development of all tasks. Choose from complete lessons including Common Core standards goals, print-outs as needed, and directions. Also included are tasks separated by middle school or high school level and high school tests for college readiness. There is an excellent professional development portion on the site for incorporating activity based learning in classrooms along with videos, session guides, and handouts. Download modules as needed for offline use. Find a step by step overview of how to use the site at the instructions tab at the top of each page.

tag(s): angles (52), area (53), assessment (147), charts and graphs (171), decimals (85), equations (119), estimation (33), measurement (122), negative numbers (13), percent (59), pythagorean theorem (19)

Answer the questions on each of the tabs to determine the amount of carbon dioxide you are responsible for emitting by the products you choose and your lifestyle. You are given the options to measure/calculate using money spent or gallons (or other form of measurement). This calculators is quite detailed.
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tag(s): carbon dioxide (10), carbon footprint (5), climate change (99)

Interested in learning more about the vast nano-sized world? Easy to understand, basic information coupled with current advances give you a taste of what is possible with nanotechnology. Be sure to navigate near the bottom right side of the page where there is a tab labeled DIY Nano. Here are some sensational activities to assist in visualizing and experimenting with nano-scale! Thoughts will charge as you think, learn, and wonder about nano-science! The site includes activity and classroom ideas for grades K-12.

tag(s): atoms (44), engineering (129), gravity (43), matter (46), measurement (122)

This site shows the scale of items from the atom to the universe by using an interactive Infographic. Choose from nine items to begin comparison. Use the blue dot to zoom in and out by sliding it up and down. The dial gives the difference in size. Be sure to view the Infographic full screen.

tag(s): animals (295), atoms (44), earth (184), measurement (122), planets (113), space (222)

This site offers tutorials, videos, publications, and more for users of GeoGebra (free downloadable software reviewed here). Links on the site include math modules with ready-to-use problems categorized by subject - Measurement, Algebra 1 & 2, and Calculus. Holiday and fun activities are also included. Be sure to check out the TeacherTube and YouTube videos with many explanations and tutorials of GeoGebra lessons and activities. If your district blocks YouTube, the videos may not be viewable.

tag(s): angles (52), geometric shapes (135), holidays (187), measurement (122)

Math is Fun when you visit this website that is loaded with games, activities and much more! Math activities are divided into topics such as Algebra, Data, Games, Dictionaries, Worksheets, and more. After choosing a topic there are several choices for appropriate activities within the category. The teachers page has links to many virtual manipulatives, puzzles, speed math and other classroom activities. All activities contain an explanation and solution to the puzzle. Although this site may appear as another "drill and kill" site, is also has a lot of extra features and activities included. If you are a math teacher, this is definitely a site worth taking a look at.

tag(s): logic (161), measurement (122), problem solving (233)

Get a grasp on math concepts by grabbing short snacks of animations and math activities illustrating the concept. Many lessonsinclude teacher guides. View the descriptions and topics addressed for each Math snack and download the learners guide using Adobe Acrobat. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable.

tag(s): animation (65), charts and graphs (171), coordinates (15), measurement (122), numbers (120)

This site uses Google Earth to teach Math! If your school does not allow access or installation of this free software, use this site as justification for the power of GE in the curriculum. Use higher level thinking skills and provide active learning by using the lessons on this site. Visit the "Lessons" page to view lessons grouped into four categories: Concept Lessons, Project-Based Learning, Exploratory, and Measurement. Use the "Community" page to collaborate or submit lesson ideas. Click on the "Update" page to view new lessons or resources added. The "Resource" page contains links to other sites and tutorials that are useful. NOTE that you must have the FREE Google Earth reviewed hereinstalled on your computer to use these terrific ideas.

Be aware that the "Community" link has been moved off-site and is designed for teachers, not students.

tag(s): data (151), earth (184), measurement (122), problem solving (233)

This collection of nearly twenty interactive measurement activities was organized by a math specialist (former 5th grade teacher). Specific topics include telling time and clock math, balances, standard measurement, metric system, liquid measurement, proportions, coins, and others. Many of the activities can be individualized by choosing specific topics, difficulty levels, and various other options.

tag(s): measurement (122), money (113), time (91)