Gizmos: “The best computer program I have ever seen to use in math classrooms”

We just received this praise from a 7th grade Math teacher in Greenwich, CT, who helped evaluate Gizmos for her district’s middle schools.

“I just wanted to follow up about the Gizmo program we've been able to try through ExploreLearning.com. It works great as a classroom tool with the Smartboard, which I've finally got up and running…The students are so excited when they get to use Gizmos, which makes them excited about learning.  The correlation to the Connected Math books is amazing. There has been a worthwhile Gizmo for every Investigation since we've had the opportunity to use the program. Using the Exploration Guide for each Gizmo, I have created Activity Packets for the students to complete. These Exploration Guides are very well put together and directly correlate with topics being discussed in class. This is the best computer program I have seen to use in math classrooms. The students get to see real simulations that they read about in the books.  It gives real life problem-solving a whole new meaning to them.  It is so helpful for students who have a hard time with visualization. 

    Since I've started using them with the students, I refer to the Gizmos as I'm teaching.  I have even had a student mention a Gizmo in extra help, …and she was immediately able to relate it to the problem she was working on.  I really feel that it expands critical thinking skills and helps [students] connect and extend their understanding.

    The Assessment Questions provided with each Gizmo are excellent. They are often similar to CMT (Connecticut Math Test) multiple-choice questions, which is great practice for the students.  I love being able to see how the students did and where they need more instruction.  I have only used the assessment questions when I have taken the students to the computer lab, but they can easily be assigned as homework.  I have accessed the site from home and it would not be a problem for students to do so. The results that are provided for the teacher are great instant feedback. I honestly would give anything to be able to use this in my classroom next year.
    I looked over the Gizmos that correlate with the other books I cover in my classes and my mind is already forming plans to incorporate them in my teaching plans…This is the most passionate and excited I have ever been about a new teaching tool.”

                                                                                                    --- Emily Carter, Greenwich, CT