The lesson that I plan on integrating technology with is one in which the students will be exploring graphs of polynomials and how they relate to the different parts of polynomial functions. For instance, by finding the leading coefficient and degree of an expression of a polynomial function, one can predict the shape and behaviors of its graph. Students will be looking at different polynomials and finding patterns between their graphs and the parts of a polynomial. Instead of using the traditional graphing calculator, students will be be going to the back of the classroom to use the Desmos graphing devices on the computers to complete questions like those on the following handout:
Desmos is a free online graphing device that has many of the same features of a Texas Instruments graphing calculator. Therefore, as a math teacher it is quite easy to integrate Desmos into classroom for many math concepts can be modeled via graphs and the act of graphing is essential for a deeper understanding of certain mathematical conceptual knowledge. For this particular lesson students will be using the graphing device to clearly see graphs and accomplish their learning objective: students will be able to identify a polynomial function graph based on the parts of a polynomial and vice versa.
One of my main reasons for using Desmos over the typical Texas Instruments graphing calculator is that with Desmos, students can save their work, unlike the calculator. Overall the computer application is also easier for students to collaborate and investigate with for multiple students can see the visuals of the graph at once. This is really important for this particular lesson since students are asked to work in groups to see patterns that aren't easy to see individually or without discussion. Another characteristic that separates Desmos from the TI-83's available in our classroom are that program begins to create graphs as students type in numbers and variables. If you make a change to a number, the graph is quickly redrawn on the computer. This way, students can make these changes and the impact of the changes they make in real time; this gives them immediate feedback and of how the graph changes under certain circumstances which is pertinent to and enhances the objective I am trying to reach and overall a powerful way for students to learn math.
What makes Desmos even more remarkable is that students can also download the application on their phones and tablets. This may be something that I consider having them do before implementing this lesson since it may help some students engage even more so he may be distracted by the computers or want to work alone. By having students download the application to their own devices, there is a chance they would play around with it during their time after school. This could really extend their learning to places outside of the classroom, which is one of my overall goals as a math educator specifically.
