Fun Problem Solving Sites for your Smart Board or Computer Lab Visit

Three sites I've used this week with children really test their problem solving skills. One is a game called Snowline. The object is to provide Santa with a line of snow upon which to slide, grab presents, and eventually get to his destination. It's not as easy as it first appears! Obstacles begin to hinder Santa's progress and it soon becomes obvious that a straight line of snow will not be enough to help Santa get to the end of his journey. I recommend this for grades 2 and higher.

The next is Train Tracker. Student lay virtual tracks with this game. If the tracks make a complete loop, the train will successfully go around and around, the whistle will blow and the people will even give you a wave! By giving the students time to play with the tracks first - it would be possible to then give problems to solve. For example -"Lay a track that has one crossing and 6 turns. " I used this in Kindergarten this week, and recommend it for PreK -1st grades.

Finally, I present you with the "Gingerbread Man Who Has Everything." Many teachers use glyphs at different times of the year. Here's a virtual cookie with lots of icing and decorations from which to choose. I recommend this for practicing listening skills, creating glyphs, or just letting the creativity flow. Be sure to view the gallery for some inspiration. All of these resources can be found on my computer lab website in the Celebrations section of your grade level page. www.savcps.com/staff/lower/lslabs