Creating Self-Checking Activities in Numbers

A couple of years ago when I had classroom of fewer socially distanced students, I needed a safe way to give students feedback while they worked independently. When transitioning back to a classroom full of students who all simultaneously needed my attention and reassurance they were on the right track, I found myself in the same position trying to find ways to assess student learning while they independently completed work.

I created classwork and other activities in Numbers where they would get immediate feedback on whether their answer was correct or incorrect based on a the conditional highlight rules created for the cells where answers were entered. I started with easier cell formatting where they would turn red for incorrect answers and green for correct answers.

Once I was comfortable using Numbers to create these self-checking activities, I was learned a few tips and tricks and my creativity kicked in! When reviewing our multiplication facts, I created multiplication fact mystery pictures using a "mixed up" multiplication chart. Because the rules work in sequential order, I could use some formatting shortcuts. I also learned that I could combine the rules for the cells with similar rules at the same time, and then make fewer edits to the existing rules.    This past year, I have transitioned to a coaching role, where I work with multiple grade levels, so I have the opportunity to show how this can be used in all grade levels and subject areas.     Keeping students accountable was another road block I experienced. To keep students from just guessing until it their answer turns green, I would change the color of the cell to indicate correct answers.   I have attached a master Numbers document with all of these activities mentioned. My initial goal was to foster student independence with tasks that students could complete without needing direct teacher reassurance, which allowed me focus my attention on smaller groups. Then it quickly turned into fun and engaging activities that all of my students loved.