Math Applet Review Two

Shape Sorter (Grades 6-8)
http://illuminations.nctm.org/ActivityDetail.aspx?ID=34

The shape sorter was created for students in sixth through eighth grade. Students need to sort all the shapes in the Venn diagram. The Venn diagram is where the individual compares two things using two circles that overlap each other. The section where they overlap is where the put the characteristics that are the same for the two things that you are comparing. In this case, the student can choose two rules when working with shapes and then sort the shapes based upon the rules. This activity was very easy to understand because the directions were very clear and there was an example of how the program worked. This is an effective program because the students can choose the rules they want to sort the shapes. Overall, I thought this was an amazing Math Applet. I really liked it, and thought that it was very creative how the students choose what they work on. It was easy to understand and used visual presentation well.

I thought this was a great program because it can be used during any part of the unit when learning about shapes and different characteristics of shapes. This could be an introductory lesson or a lesson used at the end of the unit. This would also be great if there is a class where students are at different levels of understanding. The reason behind this is the fact that the students get to choose the rule they want to work on and sort the shapes. Due to this, it allows a lot of growth for students. Students can have a variety, so students won't feel like they are doing the same activity over and over.