Classroom Observation
...new and modern design. The desks were separate as were the chairs. Of course the computers were Dell with Microsoft Hardware and then there was the overhead projector. Technology in Instruction The class began with the teacher displaying a PowerPoint Presentation of the problem of the week with “Tip # 2 “given to the students. The students were observed recording the tip and some asked for more clues. The teacher redirected the questions to examination of clues one and two. The objective for the lesson had been placed on the chalkboard as lesson topic. The chalkboard had a note-taking format (Cornell Notes) drawn with permanent marker on the board. The lesson topic was adding integers. As a focus activity, the teacher began with a discussion of the opposites. Students brainstormed a list of opposites. The teacher displayed a large number line that was rolled out on the floor. Students were chosen to act out the concept of opposites. For example, one student stood on the 4 and the other on -4. As the class clapped, the students moved toward each other. When the students met, the class was asked to make an observation. The teacher used the activity to introduce the concept of “zero pairs.” The teacher distributed a problem set worksheet and two-color counters to each group. The teacher modeled addition of integers using overhead counters that matched the colors used by the students. The teacher began with colors that were the same, then moved to colors that were different. The students were instructed that a “zero Pair” occurs when opposite colors are put together. Working in their groups, students used counters to solve each problem. They were encouraged to use their calculators to check their answers. Students were given a graphic organizer to be used for a compare and contract activity. Students were guided into development of rules for adding integers. Teacher and Student Interactions The teacher moved around the classroom very graceful as if she was on the dance floor. The students seem to enjoy what they were doing....