Monday, February 15, 2016

Simplifying, Multiplying, Dividing, and Solving Equations Using radicals

Recently, my honors algebra 2 class studied radicals.  Among other things, we needed to build fluency in using operations and using radicals to solve equations.  Here are a few of the resources that students used during class to practice.

Simplifying radicals board game:  

I can not remember where I got this board game template.  At one time, I googled something  like “free printable board games” and downloaded a bunch of them to use once each unit.  In general, I print some practice problems using Kuta Software and cut up the worksheet to make problem cards.  I print and laminate the board game to use year after year.  I use dice and bingo counters that I purchased online.  This is a simple alternative to a worksheet that the kids always seem to enjoy.  The board games work best when the problems are quick.  The game part is not fun if the kids can only complete 2-3 problems and don’t actually get to move their game token around the board.

Multiplying and dividing radicals dice:  

Again, this is an easy substitution for practice problems.  I write a different radical binomial on each side of 2 dice.  I use a two colored counter that can be flipped to determine multiplication or division.  These dice are nice because they are quite.  You need to use permanent marker to avoid smudging though.  You can remove the marker with a magic eraser or nail polish remover.  I try to use this activity once per chapter as well.  Students like the variation in types of practice that they do in class.


Solving equations using square roots game: 

I downloaded this powerpoint template and this game from TPT.  Boom is another game that I use about one time per unit.  I take practice problems from a worksheet and put them onto the cards.  Students take turn drawing a card and solving it.  If their answer is correct, they keep the card, if not it is returned to the pile.  If a student draws a Boom card, they lose all of their cards.  The player with the most cards at the end of the game wins.

I hope that you have found some ideas to help students have fun while practicing math skills!