Math
Math Centers
The West Chester Area School District's math curriculum is Math in Focus. Every day, math was taught in centers. The centers would last about 7 minutes, enough time for students to practice learned skills as well as learning a new skill. Centers proved to be very beneficial in our classroom because it allowed for differentiation. The students were grouped both heterogeneously and homogeneously, allowing for natural differentiation. They were able to become successful in each chapter because of all the practice they were able to do, as well as small group instruction that they had received. At least one center involved technology, and many of the centers required students to work collaboratively with one another. The students were always engaged during math because every activity was meaningful enjoyable.
Technology
We used a lot of technology in my classroom, especially during math centers. Usually, I would incorporate SeeSaw activities. SeeSaw is an app and website that allows teachers to post pictures and videos of things the students are doing during the school day, allowing parents to see. I would create activities for the iPad after teaching and guiding the students through the workbook pages. This was independent practice for the students that allowed me to assess if they have mastered the skill. If the activities showed that they needed more practice, I would create a center where the students would be able to continue practicing the skill. Another technology center I would incorporate was abcya.com. ABCYa is a free website where students can practice reading and math skills on their academic level. The students were always so excited to play the games on ABCYa. The games were very fun and allowed them to practice their math skills.
