"Timez Attack": An Exploration of Multiplication Tables in a Videogame Format

Author of Activity: Jennilyn Bylund. Retrieved September 30, 2007 from
http://www.lessonplanspage.com/MathCIMultiplicationTimezAttackGame36.htm.

Subject: Mathematics

Grade: 4

General Learner Outcome: Apply arithmetic operations on whole numbers, and illustrate their use in creating and solving problems.

Specific Learner Outcome: Demonstrate and describe the process of multiplication using manipulatives, diagrams, and symbols; recall multiplication and division facts to 81.

Most Relevant ICT Outcome: Students will use technology to investigate and/or solve problems.

Description of Activity: This Math activity requires teachers to download the free version of “Timez Attack” from http://www.bigbrainz.com/ for each student, preferably ahead of time to allow the teacher to familiarize him or herself with the software. Post-download, students simply click on the “Play” button, and subsequently enter their name. Next students are prompted to explore the educational game which resembles an authentic video game. Afterward students are presented with various multiplication problems which they are instructed to answer. The problems are presented in a visual manner to students, who are later asked to recall problems previously answered. Ultimately through repetition and visual representations of multiplication tables, Mathematical skills are mastered in a fun, exciting way!

How the Technology Improves the Lesson: By implementing this Math game into a lesson on multiplication, grade four students simultaneously employ skills in using the keyboard and math facts. Furthermore, this videogame format allows students to answer math questions in a fun, non-threatening environment and they are permitted to do so at their own pace. Also, this format provides a change from the sometimes lacklustre experience associated with the use of flashcards.

Technology Integration into the Classroom

It can be said that ‘technology integration’ is the implementation of current tools and resources into a given situation. In this case, technology is integrated into a classroom setting for a greater knowledge and understanding of curriculum-based course material. More specifically, technology supports ‘inquiry-based teaching and learning’. That is to say, the utilization of technology in the classroom is resourceful in an environment that seeks to acquire knowledge. Good technology integration into the classroom stimulates the learning of a student by exposing him or her to quality knowledge-based resources, including the Internet. Further, while exposing a student to the Internet, for example, the teacher stimulates critical thinking in the individual—an invaluable learning process. Also, good technology integration encourages a deeper understanding of the curriculum as students discover and sift through an abundance of information on the subject that is being studied. An example of good technology integration in a classroom setting would be if a Social Studies class was working on the topic of China, the Internet could be utilized as a resource for cross-cultural analysis and comparison. Poor technology integration is, in my opinion, characterized by the infrequent and unstructured usage of technology in the classroom. I think it is important to guide students in their exploration of technology, particularly the Internet. Students must be given clear objectives and guided initiatives when exploring the Internet. I can remember as a student, aimlessly perusing the internet for a particular class, completely uncertain of the information I was supposed to be obtaining. Also, usage of the technology must not be infrequent; otherwise the teacher risks the loss of a student’s technological understanding over time. Regarding the barriers to technology integration, I would think a lack of funding for the technology itself would be an issue. Also, it may be difficult to find the time to implement technology in an already busy school day.

The Chronicles of an Inexperienced, but Ambitious Blogger..

How strange and exciting it is to be undertaking this new adventure in blogging! I'll do my best to live up to the very impressive work of my fellow Ed. 3508 colleagues.

Let me begin by telling you a little about myself...

My name is Nicole Lavoie, but since I feel like you ought to know the real me, you can call me Niki! I was born and raised in Calgary, Alberta and am the youngest child in a family of four. My interests include singing, literature, art history, and many other avenues by which I can express my creativity. In addition, I have a special place in my heart for traveling, as much of my family lives in the U.K. Moreover, I adore spending time with children-- particularly the younger ones! Coming from a family of teachers, I've always gravitated towards a career in education and am therefore thrilled to be embarking on this new journey in teaching. I have much to learn and am anxious to absorb as much information as possible about this highly-respected and invaluable profession.

Now that I've introduced myself, shall we discuss the merits and potential shortcomings associated with the implimentation of blogging in the classroom? Yes? Excellent.

My Perspective on Blogging in the Classroom...

Firstly, the convenience of blogging is an undisputed advantage of the techonology, as it allows a student to immediately engage in an educationally-orientated discourse with his or her teacher. This is certainly beneficial during exam time, when students feel the greatest pressure to comprehend course material. Furthermore, because these questions are posed in a less-threatening environment, free from the perceived judgement of peers, students may be more inclined to seek assistance. I can attest to this in my own experience, as I've sometimes found it difficult to ask for help with course material, in a seemingly intimidating classroom setting. In essence, this online community of learning is another means by which teachers can disseminate information to their students, and may also have the added effect of strengthening the bonds between students as they assist one another in understanding a given topic.

Still, the issue of privacy, security, and confidentiality, is an area of potential concern with regards to blogging-- especially for young students who may be susceptible to threats such as cyber-bullying. Also, it is important that the information transmitted be accurate and of a factual nature, rather than one of mere opinion. If the material relayed to students is not qualified or reliable it is of little use in the quest for true academic understanding.

In my personal opinion, I think these obstacles can be overcome with the implimentation of a code of conduct in which each student consents to express him or herself in an appropriate manner while online. Ultimately, I believe the advantages of blogging for educational purposes far outweigh the risks associated with it.

Educationally Yours,

Niki