Amplify / Desmos

Description:

• Amplify/ Desmos offers a problem-based math curriculum, in a digital-physical hybrid learning environment for kindergarten through 12th grade. 

  • Problem-Based Lessons — real-world, curiosity-driven problem solving instead of direct instruction

  • Interactive Digital Tools — virtual manipulatives, dynamic graphing, and activities like Marbleslides

  • Real-Time Teacher Dashboard — monitor progress live, pause screens, spark discussion

  • Customizable Activities — use pre-built lessons, edit them, or build your own

  • Integrated Assessment & Data — formative checks and data profiles (including mCLASS Math) to guide differentiation

• Note: As of the fall of 2026 SMUHSD math teachers now have access to the Desmos LTi integration 1.3

  • Benefits of using the LTI include:

    • Easy Access from Canvas Course — launches directly inside Canvas, no separate login for teachers or students

    • Embeds Desmos Content— embed a specific Desmos activity or tool right into a Canvas module or assignment

    • Automated Rostering — class lists stay accurate automatically as enrollment changes in Canvas

    • Grade Passback — scores sync straight to the Canvas Gradebook, no manual CSV export/upload

Teacher access:

• Send requests for paid pro licenses to edtech@smuhsd.org to get setup

  1. Add desmos to course navigation links

     • Go to Course> Settings> Navigation> and enable the Amplify/Demos link.

     • Teachers and students will now see the Amplify 1.3 app link in the course navigation menu.

     • Once installed, teachers and students can launch Amplify and will be signed in to their Amplify account automatically.

  2. Add Desmos Content Into Canvas Canvas: Importing Amplify content (Deep linking)

     • Open your specific Canvas Course and navigate to Modules or Assignments.

     • Create a new assignment or item and select External Tool as the submission type.

     • Click Find and choose the Amplify LTI 1.1/1.3 app configured by your district.

     • Browse or expand the folder tree to select the specific Amplify Desmos Math activity or resource you want to link.

     • Click Import Selected or Select, then save and publish your assignment so students can access it directly via single sign-on. 

  3. Canvas: Syncing grades from Amplify

     • Syncing scores from Amplify

       • Using Grade Sync from Amplify to Canvas with Multiple Grading Periods

       • Grade Sync with Cross-Linked Sections

     • The Student Experience

     • Troubleshooting

     • FAQ

Resources:

• Amplify/Desmos support site

Support:

• Canvas integration with desmos resources 

• District teachers can request support from:  edtech@smuhsd.org

Licensing:

• Pro Licensing for specific school sites can be referenced on the 26/27 math licensing spreadsheet here

Student Data Privacy Agreement: 

• Completed