Middle Level ICT Integration

 Middle Level ICT Integration with PhET Simulation

    

    In the middle level of ICT integration, technology supplements traditional teaching methods to enhance student learning experiences. Teachers strategically use multimedia presentations, interactive simulations, and online resources to engage students and facilitate learning. This level represents a balanced approach where technology supports traditional instruction to promote student achievement.

    

    During the session, we were introduced to the PhET simulation, which offers a virtual platform that can be effectively integrated into classroom settings. The advantages of utilizing simulations in educational settings were highlighted, with a particular focus on the benefits for both the educators and the learners, such as enhanced safety and portability. The session specifically explored the application of PhET simulation in teaching Circuit Construction, where the visualization of blubs glowing or fire occurring based on the accuracy of circuit assembly was demonstrated. by manipulating variables such as the number of bulbs, wires, and battery cells, students were able to observe the corresponding changes in the circuit and record their findings in a collaborative Google Docs workspace.

    The integration of PhET simulation in classrooms represents a form of technology integration categorized as the Middle Level. This level typically involves the use of technology tools to enhance learning experiences and facilitate student engagement. In this context, the use of simulations like PhET allows for interactive and hands-on exploration of scientific concepts, providing students with a dynamic learning environment that promotes active participation and conceptual understanding. By incorporating such technological resources into instruction, educators can effectively bridge theoretical concepts with practical applications, fostering a deeper comprehension of complex topics and promoting a more interactive and engaging learning experience for students.

 Lesson Plan

The following article will showcase the use of PhET Simulation in teaching Comparing Numbers.

Subject: Mathematics                                                        Class: II

Chapter: Numbers                                                             Time: 50 Minutes

Topic: Comparing Numbers

Activity: Comparing Numbers through visual representation in PhET Simulation

Objectives: By the end of the lesson, the students will be able to;

                    1. compare two numbers up to 20 using PhET Simulation; 

                    2. use the symbols > for 'more than' or 'greater than', < for 'less than' and = for 'equal to'.

Teaching Learning Materials: 1. Computer or Laptop with internet connection

                                                    2. Projector

Previous Knowledge: Students already know how to count numbers up to 100.

Lesson introduction (5 Mins)

Begin the lesson by reviewing the concept of counting the numbers. Remind the learners that counting number forward will make the numbers bigger each time. Let them know that the lesson will be about comparing the numbers. While comparing the numbers, we are looking to see which number is grater than, less than, or equal to another number. 

General Instruction (5 Mins)

Tell the learners that this lesson will be on comparing numbers through interactive PhET simulation. The students will go through a thorough demonstration on what they will be doing on their computers and then work in pairs to make visual representations of comparing numbers.

Information Input (15 Mins)

In today's lesson, we will be using the PhET simulation tool "Comparing Numbers" to practice this skill in a fun and interactive way. The simulation allows us to visually compare numbers and see the relationships between them. By using this tool, we can strengthen our understanding of comparing numbers and develop our ability to identify which number is greater than, less than, or equal to another number. The teacher will also teach the symbols for "greater than", "lesser than" and "equal to".

Instructions: 

1. Revisit the previous lessons on counting numbers. 

2. Use Google search engine and type in "PhET Simulations"  in the search box or use the link: https://phet.colorado.edu/ 

3. Click on Simulations and select "All Sims".

 

 4.Scroll down and select "Number Compare" 

 5. Click the "Play" button and select on compare. You will see two boxes.

 6. Select an object in each of the boxes. 

7. Drag the selected objects from the corner to the box. Use different number of objects or even same in each of the boxes. You can even switch the objects.

8. Compare the numbers by looking at the objects.

Follow up Activity (20 Mins)

This activity will be done by students in pairs. The pair will each choose a box and take turns to fill up their box with objects corresponding to the list given in table 1. After each of them has completed filling up their boxes, they will fill their findings in table 1.

    Table 1

    

Lesson Closure (5 Mins)

The teacher will conclude the lesson by summarizing the key concepts learned about comparing numbers and emphasize the importance of this skill in mathematics and day to day life.