M7 Games and Stimulations in Education

 

I teach 9th-grade Algebra, and it can be challenging to find a game that is suitable for the level and learning style. Our science department utilized Gizmos for high school students during the COVID-19 pandemic. I never thought to look into it until now, to see if they did anything for math. 

I am going to look into two-step equations, which you can visit here https://gizmos.explorelearning.com/find-gizmos/lesson-info?resourceId=109

This Gizmo presents a virtual balance scale to model algebraic equations like 2x + 3 = 11. Students can add or remove weights and blocks on each side of the scale, physically seeing how operations affect the equation's balance. As they work, they begin to understand inverse operations and the goal of isolating the variable. It turns solving equations into a hands-on puzzle, helping students visualize what it means to “undo” an operation, something that’s often abstract or confusing in a traditional math setting.

I would use this Gizmo during a unit on solving linear equations, probably around the second week of instruction, once students have a solid understanding of basic operations and variables. I see this simulation as a great way to help students transition from hands-on tools like algebra tiles to more abstract problem-solving with symbolic equations. It creates a visual and interactive experience that helps make the math feel more meaningful and less intimidating.

I would begin the activity with a brief class demonstration of the Gizmo using the smartboard. Together, we would solve the first equation in the simulation, pausing to discuss the meaning behind each action, such as asking, “What does removing three blocks from both sides represent?” This guided discussion would help students make connections between the visual model and the algebraic process. After the demonstration, students would explore the Gizmo independently or in pairs, using the built-in Student Exploration Guide to support their learning and reflection.

To implement this activity, a few materials and setup steps are necessary. Each student or pair will need access to a device with internet connectivity, such as a Chromebook or laptop. The teacher should have a free ExploreLearning account to assign and track student progress within the Gizmo. Additionally, students will need either printed or digital copies of the Student Exploration Guide, which is provided directly through the Gizmos platform to support their interaction with the simulation.

Each lesson also comes with worksheets, such as vocabulary and a worksheet, so that students can have a copy of what they are learning. (Both shown below)

My assessments would be a mix of observation, formative, and summative. I would observe by walking around the classroom, making sure students are on task. Formative assessments, I can use the students' responses on the program, and also collect the handout that the students need to fill in. Summative assessments would be a quiz and a test to check for understanding.