Resources

Engineering is Elementary

Engineering is Elementary uses children’s love for building things to engage them in real-world engineering design challenges. The hands-on projects integrate an elementary school science topic with a specific field of engineering. A searchable database is included. Projects combine science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to encourage problem-solving, inquiry, and innovation. Units include lesson plans, assessment tools, and a wealth of multimedia resources to assist teachers before and during the projects. Grades: 1-8

PhET

PhET is a collection of science and math interactive computer simulations. With over 200 million simulations delivered to date, students learn through exploration in an animated, game-like environment. PhET simulations encourage inquiry, use real-world connections and can be used in a variety of educational settings. Play with existing simulations or run simulations on this engaging, interactive site. Grades: 2-12.

Tip: Have your elementary students learn the principles of fractions with the “Fractions Intro” and 4 related simulations.

Hstry

Hstry is a multimedia timeline creation tool that will work on your laptop, Chromebook, iPad or tablet. Students can interact and comment on peer timelines. Use a variety of media to highlight important biographical, historical, or literary events in chronological order. Add in video, images, audio, and text to the events these engaging timeline. Grades: 3-12

Bookopolis

Bookopolis is a social network and book discovery tool for young children. Think of this as similar to Shelfari or GoodReads for children. Teachers create a private class where their students earn points, write book reviews, and build personal reading communities. There are various tools for teachers to use to track reading progress. Grades: 2nd-8th

Tip: Use Bookopolis to practice opinion writing that students use to recommend titles to their classmates.