I have always done centers, especially in math. Typically my centers involve a cooperative game or activity, and independent center, a teacher center, and computers. I was never a good math student because I could not understand those abstract concepts in math. I needed to “see it” not just be told what to do. When I started teaching I made it my mission to make math fun! I wanted to make those abstract concepts more than just a complex algorithm. The centers have proven very successful over the years.
However, one problem with the activity/game center was that it was difficult to determine if students were on task. I would usually leave the teacher center at least once to walk around the room, but it does not take long for students to get distracted. I began making “quick checks” for the activity/game center as a method of keeping students on track.
With the addition of Laptops and IPads to my class I have been able to make those centers to a whole other level. There are many apps that enable teachers to track progress. For example, Math Pentagon. Students complete math problems and can even show their work on their IPads. This app gives students instant feedback on what they have missed and then I can log in and also see what students need to work on. The only thing that I don’t like about Math Pentagon is that everything has to be done from the IPad, which takes longer than other programs like Edmodo that allow you to work via a laptop or desktop.
With the centers I have been making step-by-step directions for the IPads and the Laptops. An example of one of those sets is attached. This has been very helpful for both students, and myself. These directions enable me to spend more time with the students at the teacher center. Students also learn to follow multiple step directions. It is amazing how much of a motivator technology is in the classroom. It has only taken one time for me to have to take the technology away when students have been caught off task or not following directions.
Apple Remote Desktop is a must for any classroom with multiple devices. This program lets me see what is on all of the student screens all at one time on my desktop. It also lets me control their laptops, send messages, or even lock their screens.
Decimal Contender is an awesome 2 player App, they also have Fraction Contender. Despite the technology, sometimes we still have to work out more complicated problems on good old paper and pencil.