INSTRUCTIONAL SOFTWARE

Name: Brian Seo

Software Title: Desmos
URL: https://student.desmos.com?prepopulateCode=sb59f
Function(s) of Instructional Software (check all that apply):
Drill and Practice Tutorial Simulation Instructional Game e-books/e-references
Features of the Software (check all that apply):
Assessment Monitoring/Reporting (Keeps track of student data and/or generates reports for
the teacher) Allows teacher to create customized lessons for students Multi-user or
collaborative functions with others in class Multi-user or collaborative functions with others
beyond local class Accessible to students beyond the school day Accessible via mobile
devices Multiple languages Safety, security, and/or privacy features
Strengths of the Software: There are games/simulations that allow free-response answers for
students to justify answers. Teachers get immediate feedback on student submissions. It’s free for
both teachers and students.
Suggestions for Improvement: More games and simulations! Overall a great website.

Standards Addressed:
MGSE9-12.F.TF.5 - Choose trigonometric functions to model periodic phenomena with specified
amplitude, frequency, and midline
Grade Level/Content Area(s): 10th-11th Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus
Bloom’s Level of Critical Thinking Required (check all that apply). See
http://epltt.coe.uga.edu/index.php?title=Bloom%27s_Taxonomy
Remembering Understanding Applying Analyzing Evaluating Creating
Description of how to implement in the class:
The great thing about Desmos is that the teacher picks an activity and gives a unique code for the
students to join in on activity. Then, they would work through the simulation/instructional game
and answer the questions at the student’s own pace. Each student will need to have access to their
own computer or tablet by means of tablets in the classroom or whole classroom visits to the
computer/media lab. The content will be introduced first by the teacher’s direct instruction or
review, then time will be allotted for students to experience firsthand through the
simulation/instructional game on how trigonometric functions behave.

If some students cannot submit their Desmos activity before class ends, they are able to go home
and finish the assignment and submit online outside of class. The student’s answers and responses
are assessed on the teacher’s Desmo account and shows correct answers, most missed answers,
free responses and other data. Based on how the class does, the teacher can assess who needs
additional help on certain topics and if the teacher needs to instruct more or instruct less and give
the students more time to simulate and learn through these fun little assignments. These Desmo
assignments will hopefully be more intriguing and interesting than their paper worksheet
counterparts and as a result is able to put an interest in a passion to learn into the students!