Seven new math Gizmos!

As 2008 draws to a close, we're happy to introduce seven brand new math Gizmos!  Here's a quick overview...

First is a trio of related Gizmos.  In Function Machines 1 (Functions and Tables), you can introduce input-output machines and record data in data tables. Function Machines 2 (Functions, Tables, and Graphs) takes that a step further, adding graphs. In Function Machines 3 (Functions and Problem Solving), students program their own machines, model and solve real-world problems, and begin to think about inverse functions.

The Pattern Flip (Patterns) Gizmo challenges students to recognize and extend patterns in a fun carnival-game-like setting.

Fraction Artist 1 (Area Models of Fractions) is a creative Gizmo in which students create modern-looking paintings, in the style of Piet Mondrian, and then describe their paintings using fractions. This Gizmo serves as an introduction to the already-published Fraction Artist 2 (Area Models of Fractions).

In Factor Trees (Factoring Numbers), students can create factor trees in Factor mode as they break composite numbers into their prime factors. In Build mode, students can build numbers by multiplying primes. The two modes allow students to see these as two sides of the same coin.

Finally, the Reaction Time 2 (Graphs and Statistics) Gizmo uses the "catch the ruler" and "click a target" experiments to allow students to collect data, interpret graphs, and explore mean, median, and mode.

All of these Gizmos come with a full set of Lesson Materials and Assessment Questions.  (You have to be logged in to see all of these materials, as always.)

This brings our yearly total to 39 new Gizmos for 2008 -- one more to go to hit our goal of 40 for the year!

In addition, all of us at ExploreLearning would like to say "thank you" for helping us have a successful 2008!  We're pleased to be a partner in math and science education for so many teachers and students.  Happy holidays and best wishes for a happy new year to all.