Inquiry Based Learning Activity

The inquiry based learning activity , titled Famous Mathematicians, allows students to explore the past and find mathematicians who have made contributions to the math world. The lesson that is being taught at this time is over the topic of matrices and knowing how to use the rules to solve matrix problems. At the bottom of the inquiry based activity is a problem just for fun using cute shapes in place of numbers in the matrix problem. The students will learn a little bit of math history while making one of their problems being taught a fun activity. Listed below are the standards that are met by the lesson being taught and the fun activity.

Standard 1.0: Algebra
-Students will extend algebraic concepts to model and solve problems in real-world
situations by using a variety of functions, equations, and inequalities.
Learning Expectations:
The student will:
1.1 represent situations that involve variable quantities with expressions,
equations, inequalities, and matrices;
1.2 use appropriate methods and technologies to represent and characterize the
solutions for a variety of equations, inequalities, and systems of equations and
systems of inequalities;
Student Performance Indicators:
- demonstrate an understanding of operations on matrices;

Webquest feelings

I feel like webquests are a beneficial resource for students and teachers. As long as the teacher sets it up with links that works and with instructions that students understand what they are expected to do, the webquests will be beneficial tools to help with the learning of the students. I enjoyed looking at the different types of webquests and what they have to offer to the students. Some of the webquests were very interesting and seemed very beneficial. I am not sure if I would be able to make one by myself because I believe it is a little over my head. I try to make links work but they usually just produce error messages. I will probably try to find webquests that relate to my lesson that have already been created (if that is legal?????). I feel like webquests present a way for students to learn while having fun. I will definitely try to incorporate webquests into my lesson plans. Webquests are A-OK in my book.

Wikis

Wikis are very, very, very confusing with a hint of overwhelming. I guess the longer I work with computers and keep learning what all the mysterious buttons do, then maybe I will get the hang of it. Today I was actually able to attach a picture to the site with the help of five people. This wiki is making me feel inferior. I did find it a bit easier to do when I was adding my website that I evaluated along with my few sentences. I was so proud of myself when I found the button again that draws a line across the screen. It is really sad when you get excited over something as small as finding the button that draws a line. Overall I feel like wikis are a positive invention to the internet and everything else on the web that just blows my mind. I think the wiki I am on will turn out very well after all the work has been put into it. I cannot wait to see what all the wiki has instore for me! All I have to say is bring it on!