Lesson COG 72
Task: Use a calculator.
Prerequisites: COG 50-COG 53
Concept: Although this lesson calls for math abilities to be present before using a calculator, some instructors believe that the calculator can be a teaching tool to learn those skills identified in the prerequisite section of this sample lesson. For some students, the actual performance of basic math abilities might not be reasonable. In these cases, a calculator can be used as a substitute.
Behavioral Objective: When requested to use a calculator to perform at least 10 randomly selected addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division problems involving no greater than three-digit numbers, the student will correctly use a calculator to determine the results to a 90% .curacy level for 20 trials.
Materials: Two calculators, one for the instructor and one for the student. (Note. Calculators with only basic functions and larger than normal visual displays are preferable.)
Task Analysis:
1. Introduce the calculator to the student and explain the process of turning it on and off Provide physical guidance as needed and reduce guidance until the student can perform this task upon verbal request.
2. Use your calculator to demonstrate a basic single-digit addition problem. Encourage and guide the student to perform the same math activity on his or her calculator.
3. Continue the process outlined in Step 2, adding examples of subtraction, multiplication, and division problems.
4. Reduce the example aspect until only verbal presentation of the problem is needed.
5. Continue Step 4, increasing the numbers given for problem samples until three-digit numbers can be used.