Tacia's+Vizzle

[|Vizzle Lesson]

This Vizzle was created as an introductory lesson to solving fraction word problems. I used it as a supplement to a math investigations lesson where students solve fraction word problems. In the investigation the problems are presented in word format only, and students are expected to solve. The Vizzle provided multiple means of representation, expression, and engagement to prepare students to solve fraction word problems. The Vizzle is in a storybook format, with pictures that provide the problem visually, rather than just in words. The explanations that you click on after solving the problem break down the mathematical text to help students understand how to solve the problems. The problems, pictures, and solutions all provide options for comprehension. Students activate prior knowledge about what fractions are as they read the problems. They are guided to learning how to apply the knowledge to solving story problems. Multiple means of expression are provided in the Vizzle. While I presented this to the whole class, students could independently navigate the lesson for review and strengthening of understanding. Students can physically touch the pictures with their hands when trying to figure out fractions. They easily click on the circles to review the solutions. The solution is not immediately visible, so students can solve the problems on their own, and then check their solution. This scaffolds their practice. The students used multiple means of engagement when I presented this Vizzle. The lesson seemed to enhance the relevance of solving the fraction problems and gained their interest. In previous years when I just presented the word problems to students they were not highly engaged, and thus not able to solve the problems. With this guided engaging format, students put the effort forth to solve the problems. I presented the problem with the picture, then they solved the problems in their notebooks independently. When I clicked on the solution they self-assessed their work to confirm or adjust their thinking. Overall I found Vizzle to be a great tool for UDL. Putting it into practice in my classroom really showed how it can help students apply their knowledge to learning new concepts. While I discovered the great impact it has on whole group instruction, I would like to see how students work through Vizzle lessons independently.