HayU Blog

As the Internet continues to develop into an increasingly valuable element of modern education, the number of math websites and apps, especially those which are free, user-friendly and interactive, has also been increasing. These sites are designed to be used easily by educators and students alike, allowing them to apply their knowledge and individualize instruction without becoming too overwhelmed. In many cases, work can be printed, saved and adapted later as needed.

Dynamic Paper

This National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) resource is perfect for students learning geometry at any level. There are a variety of shapes available to view and manipulate, including a cylinder, pyramid, tetrahedron, and more. These options are easily accessed in the top left of the screen (shapes). The measurement of each can be adjusted, and two or more shapes can be included on one page, allowing students to easily visualize a variety of problems. Several pages can be included in a document should the teacher or student want to make a small booklet. Other options available under the “Nets” tab on the top left include graph paper, number lines, number grids, tessellations, shapes and spinners. Within each of these categories are subcategories. For example, the graph paper section includes options for grid paper and rectangular coordinates among many others. This user-friendly site can be used by students of all ages.

FastFig

FastFig works well on a desktop, laptop, or tablet. Students can input problems using the onscreen keyboard or the computer keyboard. Word problems can be typed with space left for the student to solve. The pages can be printed and/or saved for future use.

GridMaths

GridMaths provides an onscreen worksheet where students can type in problems as they work through them, thus avoiding possible challenges with number alignment or dysgraphia. There are a variety of choices for onscreen support, including place value counters and a basic calculator. Numbers can be entered using the onscreen calculator or the computer keyboard; this website also translates well to a tablet format.

Money Pieces

This site supports students as they learn how to count coins and dollars. The coins look realistic, text can be added, and place value grids are included. The pocket can be shown or hidden by clicking on it. Students may check their work by hiding the pocket, as the answer will appear.

Number Line Generator

This site allows the user to generate several types of number lines using whole numbers, fractions and decimals. There are a variety of printable pre-made number lines, as well. Available options include fractions, skip counting, vertical number lines, multiplication, and blank charts. This site works well on a laptop or iPad, and work can be printed and saved.

Percentage Calculator

Percentage problems are challenging for many students, especially when trying to decide what format works for a given problem. Percentage Calculator has a clear, easy to read screen that students can use to solve a problem, providing some scaffolding for an otherwise frustrating process. The template can also be printed and kept on file for future problems. The printout gives students helpful visual cues but does challenge them to solve the problem without using the calculator provided in the online version.

For links to more of our favorite math tech tools, visit our Pinterest page.

Nancy S. Bley, M.A.

Educational Specialist, Hayutin & Associates