PreK - 2nd Grade
Behaviorism
 
Title: Frog Palace
Frog Palace is a game found at the Funschool website. Upon entering the game, the student is told that they are to buy expensive stones (to build a palace for the Queen) with the King's money. In each scene, the student is given a price and they must recognize the dollar amount in terms of its place value. Using money bags that are divided into ones, tens, hundreds, and thousands, the student must pay out the correct amount. If correct, they receive the stones, get a cheer from the frogs and continue. If incorrect, they are prompted to try again. The game continues until the student has collected all the stones. Then, while waiting for the stones to be made into the castle, the student is prompted to play a math facts game. When that game is complete, the scene changes and reveals the new castle.
Grade Level: 1st Grade Subject: Mathematics - Place Value
Goal: To practice place value and review number structure
Objectives:
  • View numbers as they are represented by their place value components
  • Build 3 and 4-digit numbers using 1's, 10's, 100's, and 1,000's
  • Utilize the program as a form of practice/remediation
  • Maneuver successfully within the technology/program
 
Theory Connection/Description of Relationship

Frog Palace fits well into the Theory of Behaviorism. Behaviorism is the study of external behavior. As a teacher using this program as a Mathematical tool, one would be able to evaluate the student's understanding by observing their score and time spent on the game. Frog Palace exemplifies John B. Watson's theory that states: Behavior is the response of an organism to stimuli.

The game serves as a remediation/practice tool for concepts taught by the teacher. Frog Palace uses a stimulating game (fun graphics, sound, etc.) that engages students (at this grade level). As the child succeeds and/or struggles, the characters cheer and provide encouragement. Frog Palace strengthens the connections between short and long term memory (the skill becomes internalized).

Frog Palace is an effective game in that it helps "encode" information that students already know from previous instruction. It gives the student practice and immediate feedback which is key for a first grade student's development.

The NET Standards that are most prevalently seen in this program would be:

  • Use input devices (e.g., mouse, keyboard, remote control) and output devices (e.g., monitor, printer) to successfully operate computers, VCRs, audiotapes, and other technologies.
  • Use a variety of media and technology resources for directed and independent learning activities.
  • Use developmentally appropriate multimedia resources (e.g., interactive books, educational software, elementary multimedia encyclopedias) to support learning.
  • Demonstrate positive social and ethical behaviors when using technology.
  • Practice responsible use of technology systems and software.