Geometer’s Sketchpad is
an educational software for students of most grade levels ranging from 3rd
grade to college. This software allows students to visualize math in a new way
that engages students and allows students to have a deeper understanding of
mathematical concepts. This program not only helps students solve problems, but
also allows them to prove why things work such as theorems, by using pre-built
construction in the software and dragging around shapes, graphs and more.
Geometer’s Sketchpad
allows students to prove geometric definitions. Each shape has properties
whether they are regular or irregular. Using this software, students can visualize
why certain shapes have these properties. An example would be, to prove the
angle sum of any type of triangle is 180 degrees students can create a
triangle. With the triangle, created students could measure each of the angles
and side lengths using the program and have it displayed. While the angles are
displayed, students can also use the program to add up the angles. After the
angles are added, the student can drag the corners of the triangles changing
the angle measurements and side lengths. While doing so the students can
observe that although the angles and side lengths of the triangles change, the
triangle angle sum remains at 180 degrees. This will allow students to visually
see and understand that the angle sum of any triangle is 180 degrees.
With the use of Geometer’s
Sketchpad, students can manipulate models, number lines, geometric patterns, explore
ratio, proportion, explore numerical functions, and relationships using
graphical representation. The measure
option in this software also allows students to measure any model, shape, side
length, perimeter, area, and ratio accurately. With all these tools, students
have the ultimate “interactive whiteboard” in their hands where they can explore,
interact, and learn. With these tools present, teachers as well as students do
not have the hassle of wasting time trying to create these shapes, graphs,
models and more on paper. In addition, the measuring tool also saves time and
allows both students and teachers to be accurate, because there is always an
uncertainty measuring on paper. Overall, Geometer’s Sketchpad provides a quick efficient
way for teachers to prove, supplement, or just simply make their lesson more
engaging. Similarly for students Geometer’s Sketchpad provides students with
the tool to better understand mathematical concepts, proofs, and use
manipulatives to support their thinking.
Hi Jennifer,
ReplyDeleteI remember using this program in my Geometry course my Freshman year of high school, and found it extremely beneficial to me. I have always considered myself a visual learner, so to have this tool, along with whatever was covered in class, helped me greatly. Coming from a non-Math major, this is an extremely useful tool.
I have never heard of this software, but it sounds absolutely wonderful! You refer this software to being an "interactive whiteboard." For visual learners, this is an excellent way to learn because it allows students be hands-on. They can take control of their learning. I particularly like how it models so many different topics. This is beneficial to ELLs and students with disabilities because if they do not understand their teacher's instructions, they can visually learn from the "interactive whiteboard."
ReplyDeleteI did not realize you also wrote on Geometer's Sketchpad until you said so on my blog! I like that you added how Geometer's Sketchpad can help students visualize the proofs. Proofs is a major part of geometry that many students struggle with because they don't know where to start. Geometer's Sketchpad helps the student to discover proofs on their own. I was introduced to this software in college, but I like how you mentioned it could be used even at an elementary level.
ReplyDeleteJennifer-
ReplyDeleteGeometer's Sketchpad sounds like a fantastic way to make concepts such as proofs, which at time can seem rather abstract, concrete. Math was never a strong suit for me, but geometry was something I could conceptualize, while I am a heavily visual learner. By visually and spacially orienting students through the use of shapes and different templates, as well as the interactive aspect of the Sketchpad, I think this would be a wonderful addition to a Mathematics classroom.