Google Forms now supports automatic closing based on a date, time, or response limit. This update helps teachers automate quiz deadlines and allows clerical staff to cap event registrations automatically. These tools remove the need to manually stop accepting responses. View the screenshot and official update for more information.
Brisk Teaching now integrates directly with Kahoot! to streamline your lesson prep. Simply use the "Create" menu, select "Quiz," and choose "Kahoot" to instantly transform any resource into an interactive game. This update eliminates manual data entry, making reviews more efficient. Watch this video tutorial or read the Brisk newsletter for details.
When Blended Learning Days are infrequent, we tend to forget our Google Meet skills or become unaware of new features. Secondary teachers should prepare for inclement weather by testing their microphones, speakers, and cameras in a Google Meet session. Restart your device at least once a week to keep it updated and running smoothly. Familiarize yourself with the Google Meet "Host Controls" and practice sharing your screen during live demonstrations. It is also beneficial to go over online expectations with students before the snow arrives. Refer to the Google Meet TIP Sheet for additional information.
As generative AI evolves, teaching students to distinguish between authentic and synthetic media is essential. Common Sense Media’s "Two Truths and AI" game helps K–12 students build these "AI detective" skills through an engaging, interactive format. With tailored versions for elementary and secondary levels, the game challenges students to spot AI-generated images by analyzing visual clues and inconsistencies. It serves as a perfect bell-ringer to spark critical discussions about digital footprints and information literacy. Try Two Truths and AI today to help your students navigate our complex digital world responsibly!
Visual organizers are essential for helping students clarify thinking and process complex info. Matt Miller from Ditch That Textbook offers an incredible collection of digital templates ready for immediate classroom use. These Google Slides and Canva resources cover everything from Venn diagrams to plot maps, allowing students to manipulate digital elements to show what they know. Matt’s materials are practical and classroom-tested, making them a perfect addition to your instructional toolkit. Explore these free resources today to enhance student engagement and streamline your lesson planning!
Technology is constantly changing. Even if you have posted grades on Infinite Campus for years, please take a moment to review the information below. Spending a few minutes watching a tutorial could save you hours of frustration at the end of the semester.
Do you use Progress Monitor to enter assessment scores during the semester?
At the elementary level, grades are communicated through a standards-based report card. To track student progress, IC has a standards-based grading tool called Progress Monitor. This tool gives teachers an efficient way to score, track, and report each student's proficiency level. If you use Progress Monitor throughout the semester, follow the TIP Sheet video:
How do I post grades if I do NOT use Progress Monitor during the semester?
You must post report card grades with Progress Monitor. If you do not use the Progress Monitor to record assessment scores throughout the semester, follow the TIP Sheet or video:
When can I begin posting report card grades?
The "Post Grades" window opens 10-days prior to the end of the semester. Follow the TIP Sheet or video to review the steps for posting report card grades from your IC Grade Book:
How can I view or print my students' report cards?
After your grades are posted on IC, it can be helpful (and reassuring) to view the report cards in the format received by students and parents. Follow the TIP Sheet to review the steps:
Do you have other questions about IC?
Find additional information about IC Grade Book, Progress Monitor, and posting report card grades on the Infinite Campus TIP Sheet.
EdWeb.net is a free PD network offering hundreds of live and on-demand webinars on topics like technology integration, literacy, and classroom management. To receive your CEU certificate, the process is simple:
You may have heard that "ChatGPT for Teachers" was released for free until 2027. Despite this offer, Google Gemini remains the preferred AI tool for NPAS due to superior integration and security. Gemini is natively built into Google Workspace (Docs, Drive, Slides, and Classroom), allowing for seamless content export and use. More importantly, our Google for Education Plus subscription guarantees that your data is protected by enterprise-grade security. I shared this slide at a recent middle school PD session. View the entire presentation for more information.
Polypad is a free tool for K-12 math teachers and students. This interactive platform offers a wide range of digital manipulatives, allowing students to visualize mathematical concepts and experiment with ideas. Teachers can get started by exploring an empty Polypad, browsing sample activities, or watching helpful tutorials. Watch the video below for a brief introduction.
Did you know that substitute teachers, both long-term and short-term, have access to the Clever portal? This access allows them to utilize the same district and school resources as classroom teachers. Do you use the Teacher Page feature on Clever? If so, you can share your Teacher Page with your school’s substitute account. This will grant "view" access to the same bookmarks you post for your students. Follow this TIP Sheet for step-by-step instructions.
