DynamicMath

=Dynamic Math Resources=

Dynamic Web Explorations are interactive simulations of mathematical models. The user changes a variable and the model changes in numerical, graphical, and/or even symbolic form (equations). Through the use of numerical experimentation and "what if" questions, simulations offer a visual tool to help students understand even the most abstract math concept in a concrete way.

See an **//example//** of how I have used an applet (Dynamic Math Resource) in my Advanced Math Class: http://the-wiki-post.wikispaces.com/Trig+Curves It's all about asking good questions: What happens if I change the number here or make it negative? Helping students "see" the patterns and how they relate to the equations and to the graphs is a big part of making math meaningful.

Another //**example:**// Explore the [|locus definition of a parabola]: Explore this [|version], too: For Joe, here is an [|exploration of the focus definition of ellipses and hyperbolas]!
 * Move the focus point and see what happens.
 * Move the vertex and see what happens.
 * Move the point on the parabola and see what happens.
 * Move the directrix (interesting!)

__Extra Credit:__ Check out the [|General Form for Conic Sections] and tell what happens when you change the letters. Hint: start with math 1x^2+1y^2+0xy+0x+0y-4=0 math (this is the equation of a circle with center at (0,0) and radius of 2)


 * Textbook Connections** – many textbook companies are putting computer activities in textbooks, but before these activities were related to specific software that schools may or may not be able to afford. **GeoGebra** is similar to The Geometer’s Sketchpad and many of these activities can be adapted. See this GeoGebra[[file:GeoGebra_Triangles.html]] connection that is dynamic that correlates to a "pen and paper" excercise in my textbook.

__//Using Technology as Inquiry Tool//__
· Increased student motivation and engagement when every student can interact with the material · Increased student problem-solving and "sense-making" by discovering concepts for themselves in "math lab" setting; students make conjectures and test out their ideas (much quicker on computer than through traditional pencil, compass, ruler constructions) · No need for scissors, construction paper – quicker exploration that can be done during first fifteen minutes of class rather than take an entire class period or two through traditional means

When searching for online dynamic simulations use the word "dynamic" in the search. Also, look for "standards-based" or NCTM because they will come with meaningful questions that will help students with "sense-making."
 * Find More Dynamic Math Resources:**

//Note: Most applets are Java based and computers may need to update the Java in order for these to work. Check your applets on student computers to make sure they work!//

GeoGebra - Download (free download) []
 * Resources:**

NCTM - activities []

Explore Learning - Gizmos (30 day free-trial) []

National Library of Virtual Manipulatives []

InterActivate []

Wolfram []

Another list, by topics []

LONG List of math simulations (as well as other content areas) to check out: []

**//Pages Created by Kathleen L Post//** stampinpost@yahoo.com