As as unit launch for fractions, decimals, ratios and percents, I had students work in groups with square sheets to paper on this low floor/high ceiling task. As a way to capture student thinking while integrating technology, I asked one student from each group to record the group's work using Flipagram. Two of the results are below:
I'll be honest; I was hoping for more descriptive communication (using fraction-specific vocabulary!) to accompany the photos, however, it was our first time using the tool formally in class. I'm also discovering an interesting phenomenon that intermediate students don't seem to like the sound of their own voices, and so are reticent to record their thinking using the audio feature of the app!
And, let's be honest, these 40-minute periods are killer: By the time students get to class and get settled, there simply is not time to embark on such grandiose adventures!
Nevertheless, it was a step outside my comfort zone (which means I grew a bit!), and I do think some of the students enjoyed using the technology to document their group's work. Next time, I would spend more time brainstorming success criteria for what makes an effective Flipagram, and then have students work in pairs to complete the task and record their work.
And, let's be honest, these 40-minute periods are killer: By the time students get to class and get settled, there simply is not time to embark on such grandiose adventures!
Nevertheless, it was a step outside my comfort zone (which means I grew a bit!), and I do think some of the students enjoyed using the technology to document their group's work. Next time, I would spend more time brainstorming success criteria for what makes an effective Flipagram, and then have students work in pairs to complete the task and record their work.
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