Teachers are on vacation, right? Wrong. Several area math, science and technology teachers are attending a Math Machines Workshop at Tri-Rivers this week called Connecting Math, Science and Technology. They are using algebra and geometric formulas to build a calculator-controlled Science And Math (SAM) vehicle and two other math machines for use in their classrooms.
The participating instructors are learning to use the SAM vehicle and other materials in activities where students apply mathematics and science concepts to authentic, work-related tasks, explained Ritch Ramey Tri-Rivers Engineering Technology Instructor. "The SAM vehicle and other math machines give an immediate, physical expression to mathematical functions."
Ramey said, "The training is the result of a Martha Holden Jennings Foundation Grant and funds from the National Robotics Challenge. The goal is to develop an integrated math curriculum to prepare students for college."
The overall mission of Math Machines is to improve the quality of mathematical education, enhance the transfer of mathematical thinking into other classes, and increase studentsÂ’ ability to apply rigorous mathematics outside the classroom.
Teachers attending include: Ramey, John Seibel, Jon Crothers, Michelle Rawlins, Kathleen Reinhard, all of Tri-Rivers; Shawn Wilhelm from Highland; Kurt Grunert from North Union; Heather Smith from Moapa Valley, NV; Robin VanSickle and Amy Wilson from Grant Middle School; and Amy Washburn from River Valley Middle School. The instructors are Bob Chaney and Fred Thomas.
To learn more about Math Machines, you can visit www.mathmachines.net.
Photo Captions:
Robin VanSickle and Amy Wilson from Grant Midde School are busy building.
Michelle Rawlins, Kathleen Reinhard and John Seibel, Tri-Rivers Instructors, work on their robots.
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