What is WolframAlpha?
- 'Computational Knowledge Engine'
- You enter specific search criteria and it will compute the results
- Responds with various related facts and visuals (pictures, graphs, charts, webs) about the topic, rather than merely being a search engine
What are the advantages of using WolframAlpha?
- Provides you straight forward easy to read facts that are related to your search
- No need to 'search' through a bunch of results hoping you will find the information you are looking for
- Provides academic information that would be very useful for a variety of subjects for 9-12+ grades, but can be adapted for younger students
How is WolframAlpha integrated into my classroom?
- Students will be using WolframAlpha for a variety of projects this school year
- They have been introduced to the site and were able to use this as one option for their research papers, newsletters on international cities, and career presentations
- Future projects where they will use Wolfram Alpha include
- Biomes and taxonomy of animals for a spreadsheet
- Explanation of satellite and GPS technology
- Various Internet Connection Styles (Broadband, DSL, Satellite, Dial-Up, Wi-Fi)
- History of computing (Microsoft, Apple, IBM, Oracle)
How can you integrate WolframAlpha in your classroom?
- Illustrate math or science content using a projector/white board
- chemical compounds
- plotting of geometrical figures
- Accurate research data for historical dates, figures, people, events that may be needed for a class assignment
- Current information when learning about the weather (hurricanes, clouds, forecasts, etc.)
- Can also be used with foreign languages, music, and art
- http://www.wolframalpha.com/examples
How do you get started using WolframAlpha with your students?
- Go to http://www.wolframalpha.com
- Enter search criteria, then select enter
- Search criteria could range from a math formula, country name, scientific element, dates, stocks, universities, etc.
- View results
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