Ms. Adair's Class - Y2 Contributing to the Profession

Nearpod

This year, I have used Nearpod as a tool to provide engaging lessons for my virtual students. I use this resource in all subject areas, whether it is during class; using the teacher led setting, or for asynchronous learning, using the student-paced option. Nearpod integrates with Canvas, therefore, students can easily access their Nearpod assignments through their courses. The teacher is able to see their students’ submissions from here and grade their assignments using SpeedGrader. This site has the ability to make lessons interactive and puts a new meaning to guided practice. The teacher is able to view the entire class’ screen as they are working. It is also possible to share student work with the rest of the class to model examples. After the students have completed a Nearpod, the data is saved to the website’s report tab, allowing the teacher to review students’ previous work. Some amazing tools that are found in this resource are: the draw tool, drag and drop, quizzes, educational games, matching (great for vocabulary!), place value blocks, fraction strips, and so much more! Nearpod makes the virtual classroom come to life!

Flip

Flip is an immersive and collaborative resource for students to express what they have learned about a topic and give feedback to their peers. After a topic has been assigned, students are asked to record a video of themselves conveying their knowledge. Students are then encouraged to review their peers’ videos and interact by using the comment section. This allows for collaboration in a virtual classroom. Students are also able to add backgrounds, music, and graphics to their videos. This year I used Flip for an assignment regarding pollution in the environment. I loved to see their creativity and personalities beam through the screen as they took on the role of a news reporter. This also provides a safe environment for students who are afraid of speaking in front of others in real-time.

Canva

Canva has become the foundation of my classroom! As a virtual teacher, I missed the experience of showing my creativity and personality through decorating a classroom. Then I found my solution: Canva. I have used this resource to provide a daily schedule for my students and myself to follow. Canva has allowed me to create engaging presentations, assignments, rubrics, and evidence slides for my induction program. Since our classroom is Zoom based, I have used Canva to create a virtual background that resembles a classroom. This is a quick and easy way for educators to brighten up a virtual environment with exciting graphics, fonts, and designs.