Numberphile vs Wonderopolis

This week, I'm going to share an educational channel about math called Numberphile, but don't hit the back button on your browser and let the content scare you off; I promise it's really interesting. I'm personally not great at math, but watching these videos makes the concepts much less daunting and shows how complex theories can be broken down simply.

- Jason Parker

Are you interested in numbers? This site has a variety of videos about math theories that are at the forefront of research. Easy, understandable language presents each topic, and this is an entertaining way for anyone to learn fascinating facts about numbers. The Numberphile covers a very broad scope of topics such as Why do people hate mathematics, AMAZING Dice Rolls, and Sounds of PI. Videos vary in length, although most remain well under 15 minutes. Even those who believe they are not good at math will like learning interesting facts about numbers. The videos are hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable; be sure to look at alternatives for sharing the conversation starters and other videos on classroom computers.

- Brady Haran

Numberphile is a free site featuring short math films created by Australian video journalist Brady Haran. Sponsored by organizations including the Mathematical Sciences Research Institute, Numberphile videos feature mathematicians describing interesting mathematics scenarios and insights. Problems featured are designed to be engaging and spark animated discussion. Users can browse the videos on this site (by tapping illustrations that symbolize each video's content) or explore the same content via the developer's YouTube channel (by using that site's search features to browse by topic and title).

- Emily P.

Wonderopolis could be a useful tool for any inquiry-based elementary classroom. With a new question posed and answered every day, you'll have an engaging and relevant resource to spark students' curiosity. Just plan on scaffolding for your not-yet-proficient readers or for your kindergarten and first- and second-grade students, as the content is not differentiated. The Common Core search option mostly helps narrow the search of the 1000+ questions; the site might help teachers better by offering clearer connections to the standards and explanations. Each question and its response is accompanied by a variety of resources: video teasers, an audio option, comprehension checks (literal-level), vocabulary terms with linked definitions, and a word-match exercise. Also of note, there are some open-ended extension activities that are more experiential in nature, and bound to engage students.

- Amy Lauren B.

I love using this site because of the accessibility features. It allows all types of learners to understand the text. The images are rich and the content is engaging. Since it identifies the vocabulary it helps the students better understand the content. If you want a great science article this is it. Along with the article there is a section called try it out. This section explains to the students how they could work with family or friends to dive into the topic more.

- Melissa Z.

This is a great tool for research on many topics. It incorporates visuals, interactive quizzes, vocabulary, and much more. It could be used to study science or social studies type topics with literacy intertwined for presentations, writing, and reading. The video could have the option to be read aloud, but other than that, it is a great addition to the classroom.

- Meredith Portis