Reinforcing maths concepts using Google Forms

Students at Panmure Bridge School in Auckland improved their problem solving skills and mathematical knowledge through the use of Google Forms.

"In our school, we regularly inquire into the way higher order learning, enabled by digital technologies, meets learners' needs."
^{eLPF 2014}

Creating a supportive learning environment

The classroom teacher recognised that some of her students required more think time when solving mathematical problems. She wanted to give all learners the opportunity to provide answers to maths questions, and create independent follow up work. She decided to use Google Forms to enable students to respond to mathematical questions at their own pace.

What happened as a result of the teaching?

Using Google Forms proved a very successful strategy to engage students and lift their achievement in mathematics. Students had more opportunities to practice problem solving. They could answer questions more fluently and accurately, and were more focused during maths sessions.

“I like Google Forms because using the computer and typing the answers in is more fun than writing answers in my maths book.”
^{Deannika (student)}

Assessment

The teacher viewed student responses online in one spreadsheet, focusing on individual learning needs and next steps. Students printed out their answers and glued them into their maths books to track their own learning.

“What I like about Google Forms is it helps me to learn the five times tables.”
^{Chantelle (student)}

How to use Google Forms

You need to have a Google account to be able to use Google Forms. Follow instructions on how to Create a Google form in Google support.

“I like Google Forms because it allows me to answer questions in my own time.”
^{Asmah (student)}

Handy hints for using Google Forms with students

Ask the students for their names in question one so that you can easily track individual responses when viewing the results in the spreadsheet.
Make this first question a required question by ticking the box "required question". This means students cannot submit the form without including this information.
To save time, duplicate your first written maths problem by using the double square icon to the right of the question. Then just edit the text.
Adding a theme makes the form more child friendly and inviting.
Completed forms can be emailed to all students or certain groups of students.
Completed forms can also be embedded and posted to a class blog.
If posting a form to a class blog remember to click the box that says "Allow users to edit". This enables students to access and work on the form.