Most secondary math classes require the use of a Ti-84 graphing calculator. However, nowadays there are other online options to produce elegant graphing and math simulations. One of the free, yet still powerful, options is Desmos.
- Desmos is a free online tool that can make the affordances of a graphing calculator more accessible. It is essential to give options to students whose families may not have the resources to pay for other more expensive tools.
- Desmos is not only a graphing calculator but also a matrix calculator and a geometry tool. Thus, teachers can use it to develop other mathematic content and competencies, such as patterns in a table, proportion, and relationships, linear equations, inequality, etc.
- Desmos allows you to insert images to be used in their math tools, which support teachers when integrating hands-on activities and complex math concepts. For example, the Burnaby School District has a wonderful example of integrating First Peoples Principles of Mathematical Teaching through weaving and Desmos tools.
- Desmos also offers a section with suggestions for activities and lessons teachers can adapt for their class/teaching needs.
- Go to the Desmos homepage
- You can choose to use Desmos as a teacher or a student
- As a teacher, you can browse the activities available or sign up to be able to assign activities to your students through a code.
- Desmos has a couple of videos demonstrating how to use their several tools in different math content and competencies. If you want to learn how to use Desmos on a specific topic you can go to these links:
- Or you can start creating your first graphic and exploring the basic functions of Desmos Graphic Calculator in the video below:
Guest post by Peer Mentor Ariane Faria dos Santos (Ph.D. EDCP), April. 2022.
