Have students construct a yearlong math vocabulary log. Organize math vocabulary terms for students to enter into the AlphaSmart Neo in a list format to help them recall terms or refer back to them as needed. Words such as "digit," "accuracy" or "number" may seem familiar as the vocabulary activity begins. However, when math vocabulary terms become more difficult, utilizing such terms as "upsilon," "zeta" or "omega," ongoing math vocabulary activities within the AlphaSmart become helpful. Adjust the vocabulary activity according to the math level of your students.
Construct a math activity for students to practice writing and solving word and number problems. Direct students through the steps required to complete the activity on the AlphaSmart. Instruct students to read the first word problem on a separate activity sheet. Have them analyze the problem, and then translate it into a math expression. The students will learn how to recognize the quantities within a problem and the relationship between them. Once the students analyze the situation, they should type the first word problem into the AlphaSmart. Instruct them to enter the math relationship expression and the number equation for each problem in the activity.
For example, the student reads: "Alice and Jimmy together have 20 blocks. If Jimmy has 11 blocks, how many blocks does Alice have?" The student types the following into AlphaSmart:
Relationship: Alice's blocks 9 + Jimmy's blocks 11 = 20 blocks total
Equation: 9 + 11 = 20
Have the students use the AlphaSmart to take notes during math class discussions. Teach them how to organize the information within the AlphaSmart after each note taking activity. For example, download a math assignment book into AlphaSmart for your students. Help the students organize their notes into various categories within the file. Explain to them how easy it is to use the "find" button to find a note file after they have exited and reentered the AlphaSmart. Organized notes may lead to a higher rate of memory retention.
Math pop quizzes are activities that can be more enjoyable if they are taken on an AlphaSmart. An AlphaSmart gives students an edge because it helps them type faster, learning keyboarding skills at the same time they are reviewing their math skills. Hold the pop quiz as you normally would, instructing your students to input the answers into their AlphaSmarts instead of on paper.