As you utilize your tech tools, please keep the SAMR model in mind, pictured on the left. We aren't in the business of just replacing paper and pencil. Sometimes, there's a place for that, but we don't want it to be the norm. Rather, we want to present transformative experiences that wouldn't exist without tech. In short, if it's not making a difference with your students, or making your life easier, don't waste your time.
Classflow "cloud-based lesson delivery software for interactive displays" I have seen this work really well in a math classroom, but I can also see it being beneficial for quickwrites and grammar work in an ELA room.
Perks- free version has a lot of great features, allows students to respond to questions in real-time for great, quick formative assessments, and it integrates with Google Classroom.
Drawbacks- doesn't mesh well with powerpoint, so you'd have to recreate powerpoints in their format.
Perks- It's easy to use. It has a downloadable app for Chromebooks. You can use it to flip your classroom.
Drawbacks- Not many
Perks- Students who are familiar with PowerPoint should be able to use it easily. Students can collaborate on group projects and turn in a document that each group member has contributed to. Works well with existing powerpoints, and when paired with PearDeck you can make a pretty exciting, engaging presentation out of existing PowerPoint materials.
Drawbacks- There's a little learning curve for students to be able to work seamlessly in a collaborative document.
Perks- extension that works with Google Slides to create an interactive presentation. It is great for getting quick feedback. Cool features even in the free version.
Drawbacks- some of the best features, like drawable slides, aren't available unless you pay for the full version.
Perks-If students have worked in a Word Document, they should be able to use this easily.
Drawbacks- Again, students have to be taught how to work together in a collaborative Doc so they don't damage their classmates' work.
Perks- interactive, easy to create, huge searchable database of free and purchasable lessons, LOTS of features to keep students engaged and excited about lesson, embedded videos on various topics, VR fieldtrips, built-in quiz feature, and built in PHET simulations.
Drawbacks- free version and purchasable version, the paid version is worth it! If we get several teachers on board, we can work toward getting a school license.
Perks- Easily create beautiful interactive video lessons for your students you can integrate right into your LMS
Drawbacks- sometimes blocked
Perks- runs easily with Google Classroom, Response Sheets create easily referenced results for you to analyze students responses quickly, user-friendly, probably the best option for Google Classroom
Drawbacks- DOES NOT automatically collect students' names, don't forget to hit that little toggle button to collect email addresses. Doesn't auto-save if the internet goes down or the network fails.
Perks- Has a Google Extension for Google Slide Decks that allows for an easy check-in.
Drawbacks- Time consuming if it's not embedded.
Perks- similar to kahoot, but allows for students to take individual quizzes, great for test practice and vocabulary work, students can compete or work to beat best score, quizzes can be created as "homework" and aren't dependent on you to run them. So, students can complete them at home, or at school on days when you have a substitute. Customizable memes if you're an over-achiever :)
Drawbacks-it gets old with students if it's over-used. Some students get stressed out by the timer (but that can be turned off)
Perks- Online multiple choice quiz, fast, searchable database
Drawbacks- Some students will be bored with this one
Perks- digital flashcards and collaborative games with an extensive searchable database
Drawbacks- students are tempted to cheat. Recommend the "Learn" feature with a 100% score first to be sure students have mastered the basics before allowing games.
Click HERE or on the picture to the left to be taken to an extensive list of strategic teaching strategies with explanations and graphic organizers!
Safeshare allows you to clean up youtube videos and share them by projecting. Students still can't view youtube videos on their computers, which is a blessing and a curse.
GO Noodle gives students and teachers an opportunity for brain breaks.
Calm is a site with free and paid options that guide meditation and mindfulness.