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.
Bring learning to life with Chat-Animator.net! This website allows students to create simulated text conversations between characters. Imagine historical figures debating a topic or literary characters discussing the plot, all presented in a relatable texting format! Teachers can use this tool to engage students in creative writing, bring history to life, explore character motivations, and practice persuasive dialogue. Students can download their conversations as animated GIFs and easily insert them into Google Slides presentations, adding a dynamic element to their projects. This simple yet powerful tool promotes storytelling and critical thinking about character voices. (Google Slides Template)
Spice up your classroom review sessions with one of these free online game buzzer options: Multibuzz.app and Buzzonk.com! As demonstrated in the video, these tools transform traditional reviews into engaging and competitive experiences. Multibuzzer offers a clean, straightforward interface, perfect for quick setup and play. Buzzonk has a wider array of options, allowing you to tailor the game to your specific needs. Both platforms allow multiple students to buzz in simultaneously, fostering excitement and active participation. Say goodbye to dull review sessions and hello to energized learning with these user-friendly online buzzers.
You may have noticed that Google Classroom added a new Read Along feature for reading instruction. By assigning books at various reading levels, you can differentiate the needs of your students. The tool allows students to listen to books read aloud, follow along with the text, and practice reading independently. Built-in comprehension questions and progress tracking help you monitor student growth and provide targeted support. Watch the video tutorial for more information.
In an earlier newsletter article, I shared that you have until December 31st to convert your old Google Jamboard files to FigJam projects. Jamboard files will not be accessible starting in 2025. The video below demonstrates how to create a free Figma for Education account that will give you access to all the "professional" features. Review the Figma Edu & FigJam TIP Sheet for more information.
During distance and hybrid learning, many teachers used Google Jamboard for its collaborative and interactive features, which enhanced student engagement and learning. However, Google announced it is discontinuing Jamboard. FigJam by Figma has become the leading free alternative, ideal for classroom discussions, brainstorming, and group work. If you have Google Jamboard files, be sure to convert them to FigJam files before December 31, 2024, by following this TIP Sheet. Jamboard files will not be accessible starting in 2025.
I've been sharing features from the November after-school PD session, What's New in Google Classroom? You've been able to attach YouTube videos to Classroom assignments for quite a while, but teachers can now insert interactive questions (similar to EdPuzzle). Students answer as they watch, getting real-time feedback and a chance to learn from mistakes. The teacher's dashboard gives insights into student progress, identifying areas where students may have struggled.
This post highlights another feature I shared in the November after-school PD session, What's New in Google Classroom? Last spring, Google Classroom Practice Sets were introduced to help teachers personalize student learning. Practice sets allow educators to transform their teaching content into interactive assignments and use an auto-grading tool to save time. Teachers also gain insights into student performance to tailor future lesson plans accordingly. Students receive real-time feedback, hints, and visual explainers as they complete practice sets, which can boost their confidence and engagement. Watch the video below for more information.
If GoGuardian is part of your daily routine, try the new "Student Check-Ins" feature. The tool gives teachers real-time insight into their students' emotions by issuing a Check-In prompt during class sessions. Students are asked to select from a series of emojis or choose "I'd rather not say" and submit it to their teacher. For more details and instructions, review this article.
I follow the Control Alt Achieve blog and newsletter from Eric Curts. He recently shared a useful set of virtual math manipulatives. The Think Central iTools include manipulatives for algebra, base-ten blocks, counters, fractions, geometry, graphs, measurement, number charts, number lines, and probability. Use the site as an instructional tool or share the link with students for interactive lessons.
