Google Sites

I've taught students in grades 2 though 5 (yes, 2nd graders!!) how to create Google Sites websites!

Topics we've used - to give you some ideas:

2nd Grade: Landforms, States of Matter - Solids, Liquids, Gas

3rd Grade: CA Native Americans, Biomes, Digital Portfolios 

4th Grade: Skatepark Projects/Energy, Electricity, Digital Portfolios, 

5th: Health & PE - Muscle Groups, Biomes, Digital Portfolios 

Did you know you can make your own map in Google Maps? 

Interactive Google Maps are an engaging way to have students "show what they know" or keep track of information as they are learning about a topic. They can make them in groups - with each group member adding layers - or on their own.

Studying the Gold Rush? The Colonies? Interactive Google Maps are a great way to integrate an academic subject, geography and technology.

Working on Biographies? Have your students create an Interactive Google Map to show the subject's journey.  

Studying a literature book? Track your character along the way.

** Teacher Tip **

I posted these directions on Google Classroom for my students AND passed out printed directions. They followed along as I demonstrated the first time. I had a student read a direction, and then I showed them how to do that step. They asked questions as I demonstrated. Afterward, they used their paper directions to work in partners to create their own map/maps. I always let my students work together and help each other as we learn something new, and I circulate to help. I learned that paper directions are important, since they are creating the map on their computer. For some, it was easy to use a split screen or tab back and forth to digital directions, but for most, it was easiest and faster to have the directions in front of them.

Students create a pin on the map, then add a title, information and images/video. On the left, you can see the "layers" or various pins this student has added to their map about the Revolutionary War.