Middle Level of ICT Integration

15/4/2024

PhET Simulation

Today's exploration into the realm of PhET simulation has been both interesting and thought- provoking. PhET simulation is a fun, hands-on and an  interactive way to learn and teach the students in a safe environment. Reflecting on my experience with the PhET simulation, I found it to be a valuable tool for deepening my understanding of complex concepts. In particular, the interactive nature of the simulation allowed me to explore and manipulate variables in real time, providing a hands-on approach to learning. The PhET simulations, renowned for their interactive nature and educational value, exemplify how technology can be seamlessly woven into the curriculum to enhance understanding and engagement. 

At the middle level of ICT integration, the PhET simulations serves as a powerful tools for promoting active learning and conceptual understanding. by allowing students to manipulate variables, observe outcomes, and draw conclusions, these simulations encourage hands-on exploration of scientific concepts. this not only fosters deeper understanding but also cultivates critical thinking skills and problem-solving abilities. By exploring the world of PhET simulation, i have created a lesson plan on fraction for class IV students: 

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Topic: Fraction

Subject: Mathematics

Grade: IV

Duration: 45 minutes 

Materials Required

• Projector
• Manipulatives
• Images
• Tablets or computer

Objectives

By the end of the lesson, a child will be able to:

 

1. define fraction in their own words after the lesson;

2. write two example of fraction without looking at the textbook;

3. demonstrate a positive attitude towards learning fraction after the lesson.

 

 

Lesson Introduction

 

• ·       Begin the class by discussing pizzas with the students. Ask questions like:

1.     Who likes pizza?

2.     What shapes do you see in pizza?

3.     How can we share pizza with friends?

•   Use this as segue to introduce the concept.
•  Show a short, engaging video featuring simple visual representations of fractions, such as dividing a pizza into slices or dividing a chocolate bar into pieces.

 

Link to the video:  https://youtu.be/pNUNi19Lqhc 

 

Lesson Development

 

•            After watching the video, engage students by asking questions like:

1.     Who can tell me what fraction is?

2.     What do you understand by the term numerator and denominator?

3.     Have you ever seen or used fractions before?

•          Discuss and review some of the key components of fractions such as numerator and denominator.
•          Show examples of simple fractions using visuals like circles or rectangle divided into parts.
•           Explain that fraction represents parts of a whole, using everyday objects or scenarios as examples (example, sharing a pizza, dividing a cake)
•           Use manipulatives such as fraction circles or bars to demonstrate how fraction can be represented visually.

Activity 1

•         Take the students to the computer lab and instruct them to open a web browser on the computer.
•          Navigate to the PhET  interactive simulations website (PhET.colorado.edu).
•          Introduce the PhEt “Build a Fraction” simulation to the class, explaining that they will be using it to explore fractions visually. 
• Provide clear instructions on how to use the simulation, including:


1. Adjusting the numerator and denominator sliders to create different fractions.


2. Using fraction bars to visualize fractions

Example,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•          Guide them in creating various fractions and comparing their sizes.

 

Activity 2- write the fraction numbers using the PhET simulation.

 

•  After they are down with activity 1, the teacher will instruct them to do the second activity.
•  In this activity, each student will look at the fractions displayed on the simulation, represented  by the shaded portion of the fraction bar and write down the fraction number that corresponds to the visual representation shown in the simulation.
•  For example, if half of the fraction bar is shaded, write the fraction “1/2”.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

•          Continue adjusting the fraction in the simulation to display different visual representations.
•          Each time, write down the corresponding fraction number based on what you see.
•         Try a variety of fractions with different numerators and denominators to practice writing               fractions in various forms.
•          Circulate around the classroom to provide assistance and support as students work with the            simulation.

 

Follow up

•  Let students volunteer to share and explain their work with the class.

Conclusion

•            Review the key concepts covered in the lesson, such as numerator, denominator.
•            Ask students to share one thing they learned about fractions today. 
•        End the lesson on a positive note, praising students for their participation and engagement.