I think this unit is a great possibility for my Course 5 project because my students have struggled immensely on this topic and there are very few good resources and lessons to be found. Most resources I found teach the “short cuts” without the why or understanding for the math to make sense. I am seeking lessons that help students explain and uncover the why before the algorithm is given to them. Even with the algorithm, it is my understanding that this unit is one of (if not) the hardest part of 6th grade math. I can incorporate the concept of connectivism through the sharing of videos and dialogue/feedback online with parents, teachers, students, and other classes in my school as well as others that are struggling to master this concept. Students also get to learn and practice 21st century skills of collaboration, creativity, community, and critical thinking, while being global citizens. I can incorporate problem-based learning and allow students to explore (with some guidance) how to solve these types of problems in a way that is meaningful and relevant in their lives. I can also use flipped learning to help students and parents understand/visualize the type of math we are doing so parents can be more supportive at home and we can focus on the “big ideas” in the classroom.
I have several concerns that come to mind for redesigning this unit. The first is time. Will redesigning this unit take more time for students to master the learning and understanding when time is so precious to begin with? The second concern is access to technology. Our school just does not have the resources that most international schools have. Will this affect the redesign negatively? What are some free tools we have access to in our school that can replicate the tools I am familiar with and may need? Third, can I finally let go and give the students the reigns to their learning? Are they mature enough to handle this responsibility? The answer will always be no if I fail to give them the opportunity. Last is how will students be assessed? Will I have to to think of alternative ways to assess the students’ work?
If I decide to experiment with the idea of a flipped classroom model, I would have to make sure all students would have access to the lessons online and understand the importance of viewing the videos at home (or before class) before we begin the lesson. The students will need to understand the expectations of the use of technology and how to be good digital citizens online. I need to make sure students are both responsible and safe. Students will need to have an awareness of global collaboration through the comments and responses they leave on the student videos on Blackboard, as well as on Youtube since they will be sharing their mathematical thinking in math. The students will also be required to be exposed to various apps on the iPads for technology integration. Eventually, towards the end of this unit, my goal is to facilitate and support them to meet their needs and finally give up more control in the classroom – not an easy task (but essential).
Finally, students will need to take on a greater responsibility to meet the new challenges of a flipped classroom. As stated above, my students will need to learn new technological skills (although I believe most are digital natives and either already know the technology well or will be quick studies), understand the concept of digital citizenship and digital footprints, and take over a greater control of learning. I hope my students will rise to the challenge!
![11217419516_9a82101141_b]()
