Now that you have had time to play with Scratch, this assignment will have you digger deeper into how to implement computer program and the advantages and disadvantages of using the software with middle school students.  

Note: This week’s chat will be held on Wednesday, April 17^th at 7:30pm.

Task 1: Benefits of Computer Programming

How does programming support learning mathematics? You can use articles, videos, or examples of programs to explain the benefits of students using computer programming software. In addition to listing the advantages of using this program in the math classroom, describe some problems you foresee parents having with assignments that require students to create programs using computer programming software.

Task 2: Create an online assignment

Create an online assignment that uses Scratch to assess the students’ understanding of a mathematical concept of your choice. This will be an online assignment using the online learning community that you created in the Blended Learning week. Make sure that your assignment includes:
(1) an online tool that will review prerequisite knowledge of the mathematical concept that the student will need to make the program
(2) the goals and requirements of the Scratch program the students will be creating
(3) an exemplar of a program that you either create or find on Scratch’s online community

Example:
In order to help brew some ideas and understand the structure of this task, I created a lesson on properties of angles in triangles. To view this lesson, click here: Mulranen Blended Learning

Task 3: Post your lesson and give others feedback

Post your lesson in the online learning community that you created in the Blended Learning week. View another student’s lessons and post a comment including critical feedback on what you liked and how they can enhance their lesson.

Task 4: The controversy

Should computer programming be introduced into a middle school level math curriculum? Why or why not? What other tools can be used to help support students who are new to programming? In addition to your own personal reaction to these two questions, I would like you to also research an article that supports or goes against your stance on this issue. Include the link and a summary of the article and compare it to your own personal reaction.