Google Tools

Google Drive is the place where all of your files created using any of these Google tools are stored. It is the online folder system that helps you keep, organize, and share your files. The most powerful use I have found in my 1-1 classroom is creating a shared folder with my students each year.

In this folder I share:

• Articles

• Charts and tools (multiplication chart, etc.)

• Pictures

• Instructions for assignments

• And more!

Meet is the communication service that allows you to video chat with an individual or a group of people. Meet is Google's equivalent to Skype. All you need is a microphone and webcam.

Ideas for school include:

• Mystery Hangouts

• How to Mystery Hangout (Video)

• United States Map (Printable)

• Virtual PLCs and PLNs

• Guest speakers

• Virtual presentation audiences

• Virtual field trips

Google Docs are for word processing. They are very similar to Microsoft Word.

Additional benefits include:

• Ability for multiple users to collaborate

• Compatible with computers, tablets, phones, etc.

• Automatically saves progress

• Docs are online so students can continue work from home.

Google Classroom is the blended learning tool that can serve as your "virtual" classroom space. Classroom has several of the same features as Edmodo, Schoology, and other LMSs (Learning Management Systems).

Features include the ability to:

• Email students

• Post materials

• Make announcements

• Share resources

• Create assignments

• Collect assignments

• Give feedback

Google Forms are for creating surveys/forms and collecting/organizing the results.

We have used it for:

• Parent/Student surveys

• Tests and quizzes

• Student SPED point sheets

• Student "check-ins"

• Book logging

Google Sheets are for creating spreadsheets. Sheets can be populated by using a Google Form, or you can input your own information.

Some school uses include:

• Creating schedules

• Creating sign up sheets

• Storing lists

• Sharing form data

• And more!

Google Slides are for creating slideshows similar to PowerPoint. Slides allow you to present, edit, and collaborate from computers, tablets, etc.

• Integrates w/ other Google apps

• Embed video from Drive

• Collaborate in real time

• Easily share copies of slideshows w/ students

• Students can create/share slideshows easily

Google Jamboard is an interactive cork board where you and your students can collaborate. The board allows you to add text, drawings, and pictures.

• Ability for multiple users to collaborate

• Jams are saved and can be shared.

Google Keep is a web-based reminder app. The app works a lot like Post-it notes on your computer, tablet, phone, etc.

Keep allows you to :

• Create checklists

• Create bulleted lists (with links, pictures, and/or drawings

• Share your lists for collaboration

• Color code lists

• Set reminders

Chat is a messaging service. Depending on your district's settings it can be used to message both colleagues and students.

Use this with colleagues to:

• Communicate in real-time

• Initiate video calls

• Share files

Google's email service!

Sites is Google's website creation/hosting service. I am relatively new to Sites, but found it very easy to use. The website you are viewing this on is the first site I have created!