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 (26), medicine (57), psychology (65), statistics (121), STEM (298)

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 (270), probability (99), statistics (121), Teacher Utilities (200)

Do you need some help with Excel basics and functions? Excel Easy uses fully illustrated tutorials to walk you through Excel sheets from start to finish. Use the links at the top of the site to select from options starting with the basics, functions, and data analysis. Choose the 300 Excel Examples to find tutorials on any topic quickly. Each tutorial includes step-by-step directions, including images to guide users through each portion of the directions.
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tag(s): computers (109), data (151), Microsoft (80), spreadsheets (23)

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)

As you might guess from the title, this site is all about numbers. Their goals are to promote numeracy, develop number sense, and have fun along the way. Use the search bar to ask about any number; the results provide context and relationships to your query. Results might include comparisons to items that are bigger or smaller and equivalent items. Choose other links to learn number facts about countries, ratios, or take a number quiz.

tag(s): measurement (122), number sense (69), numbers (120), ratios (47)

Data Games is an online game with a unique twist. Throughout each game, data is stored allowing players to analyze data following play. Videos offer explanations on how to play and use the data to increase the odds of winning. Some games feature popular strategy games like Rock, Paper, Scissors, and shuffleboard.

tag(s): charts and graphs (171), data (151), logic (161), probability (99), problem solving (233), puzzles (149)

Dynamic Paper is a hands-on learning opportunity for high school students. Dynamic Paper allows for creation of all sorts of math manipulatives, such as pentagonal pyramid, a set of pattern blocks, a number line, and so on; all these in the size and shape you need. This interactive meets NCTM and Common Core Standards and includes directions for use, modes, a toolbar, and a suggested exploration.

tag(s): congress (40), estimation (33), geometric shapes (134), measurement (122), motion (47), pi (29), ratios (47), temperature (34)

Math in Real Life is a selection of TEDed videos all related to real life examples of math in use. Videos look at subjects such as music and math and winning at rock, paper, scissors. In addition to the video, each selection includes questions to enhance thinking and guided discussion options. Some videos also offer a Dig Deeper link with information on related resources. If your district blocks YouTube, the videos may not be viewable; be sure to look at alternatives for sharing videos on classroom computers.

tag(s): estimation (33), geometric shapes (134), money (113), movies (54), pi (29), place value (34), puzzles (149), riddles (15), shakespeare (99), simple machines (19), space (220), symmetry (26), video (266)

Find interesting discussion topics for high school math classes at Math Arguments 180. This blog offers 180 days of ideas for discussion in math class. In fact, it has gone beyond 180 and is still counting. Scroll through by date to view topics or search the archives for past posts. Try clicking on the categories to find specific content such as geometry or probability. Find the most popular posts by viewing links on the right side of the home page.

tag(s): logic (161), probability (99), problem solving (233)

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 (100), earth (184), earth day (60), earthquakes (46), planets (113), writing prompts (61)

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 (9), carbon footprint (5), climate change (100)

The main idea of the site is that one needs to understand math; it is not just learned or memorized, and the explanations form the basis of understanding. Topics include Mental Math shortcuts, discovering pi, different bases, and much more. The founder of this site stated: "I want to share hard-won "a ha!" moments in clear and simple language. Even Math shortcuts are fun, I promise." Many of the explanations aren't quite as "clear and simple" as students may like; however, there are a great number of topics explored on the site and they are worth the time to break apart and discuss as a class. Not finding your topic? I know, this is a long list of links. Use the search bar; for example, type in pi and find well over two dozen links for pi.

tag(s): exponents (35), mental math (19), number sense (69), pi (29), problem solving (233), pythagorean theorem (19), square roots (15), statistics (121), vectors (16)

Did you ever wonder what you weigh on other planets? This site offers the opportunity to compare the effect of gravity across our universe in a personal way. Simply input your weight to find out what you would weigh on other planets, moons, and even stars. Be sure to check out the explanations and information provided below the weight calculations. Information is provided on mass, weight, gravity, and distance, and the formula for calculating the weights are provided.

tag(s): density (17), gravity (43), mass (19), planets (113)

This site is perfect to practice math skills using real-time information and statistics from the American and National Leagues. A vast amount of data is available including prices of recent transactions, team and player statistics, streaks, and more. Considerable data is included for All-Star games, postseason stats, and frivolities such as birthdays and birthplaces. Information is also included for minor league teams. Be sure to check out the tutorial videos that help users with the site. Videos include information on box scores and their features, player and team gamelogs, and a 17 minute video reviewing features and layout of the baseball-reference site.

tag(s): charts and graphs (171), data (151), probability (99), statistics (121)

Crash two cars safely in this simulation. Change parameters such as mass, velocity, and bumper material. Click "Go" to see the result. View the current velocity after the collision.

tag(s): motion (47)

View math screencasts for grades K-7 or by topic (algebra, trigonometry, calculus, pre-calculus, or financial math). The topics for grades K-7 range from number sense to mathematical reasoning to statistics, data analysis, & probability. Follow common problems, example exam questions, and problems of the day. View video clips (some made by students)!. The videos require Flash. You can get it from the TeachersFirst Toolbox page.

tag(s): addition (129), counting (60), measurement (122), numbers (120), probability (99), statistics (121)

Real life applications of math are explored through a collection of activities that engage student in learning about architecture. Skills involving estimation, measurement, proportion, and ratios combine as students draft a "to-scale" floor plan of their classroom. The site provides sample plans, instructions on using computer software to complete the activity, and a collection of links to other Web resources on architecture and mathematics. Related activities involve finding geometric shapes in buildings, designing a bedroom, and using a virtual 3-D model of Frank Lloyd Wright's Falling Water home to estimate surface area and volume. Visit the Teacher Notes for downloadable lesson plans, ideas, and reviews of the site. Links to standards are included.

tag(s): estimation (33), measurement (122), ratios (47)