Quizlet - A Way for Students to Feel Involved

Students may sometimes get antsy or easily distracted in class when the teacher is lecturing and minimal interaction with the students takes place.

This website allows teachers to create different competitions and activities that students can take part in and learn.

                                   

I have seen teachers use this in grades 4-6 classes where students would sign up with their own account and complete little competitions that encourage them to learn a new language either individually or as a group.

Teachers will then have information on how well a student is doing on a given topic and which students need extra help.

Quizlet - A Way For Students To Feel Involved

https://quizlet.com/create-set

Danielle@NU

Quizlet: Make and Study Online Flashcards

Flashcards have proven to be an effective study tool that helps students learn and retain information. Quizlet makes it easy for students to create online flashcards, share them with classmates and search through the archives of millions of other flashcard decks created by students around the world. Students can import their notes directly into Quizlet which will turn them into flashcards. They also have the option to customize flashcards from other students and make them their own. The free Quizlet app allows students to take their studying anywhere, as long as they have access to a mobile device. This tool allows teachers to empower their students to confidently learn the material and succeed on assessments. 

https://quizlet.com/

Christina@NU

Pear Deck: Formative Assessment and Engaging Lessons

Pear Deck is a program designed for learning both in the classroom and remotely. It allows teachers to build interactive lessons that keep students engaged and focused. Teachers can add interactive assessment questions into their presentations such as text, multiple choice, website exploration, drawing and more. This allows students to gauge their understanding during lessons, rather than after. Teachers can also provide timely feedback during lessons. This program makes learning much more exciting and welcoming, and ensures all students are listening and participating. Some students are reluctant to participate in a traditional classroom setting, and this tool allows them to answer questions during lessons in a way that is less intimidating. In addition, this tool is designed to seamlessly integrate with Google and Microsoft based classrooms, making it easy to use. 

https://www.peardeck.com/ 

Christina@NU

Create a fake event

I went to the website following the instruction - Use the following website: https://tickets.kadsoftwareusa.com/

Create a fake event (e.g., concert, school play, recital, etc.) ticket. The purpose of these technology activities this could enhance our technical knowledge of what we can use something that has been created for us and use to enrich our knowledge and learning in fun ways.

These tools gave us the opportunity to make an invitation and have fun with families and our children at home and school. teach children to learn to be creative.

By Chi Nguyen EDU-498OTECA

Create a magazine cover!

Create a magazine cover. I can choose one of these fake magazine creator websites or use both. I used the following websites noted below:

(a) Poster My Wall Cover: https://www.postermywall.com/index.php/l/magazine-covers#.Xm5uRXJKjIW

(b) Your Cover: https://www.yourcover.com/

I created 3 kinds of magazine covers and had fun with this technology help. I found it is easy to use and the creation looks real. 

I believe this could be used in teaching and engage our students to learn to create activities. 

By Chi @ NU (OTECA)

Series: Formative Assessment Tools for Teachers 4

There is no shortage of strategies, techniques, and tools available to teachers who use formative instructional practice in their classrooms. Here is a list of digital tools, apps, and platforms that can help you and your students use formative assessment to elicit evidence of learning. 

The tools

Educreations Whiteboard A whiteboard app that provides students the tool to share understanding and comprehension.

Edulastic Allows teachers to create standards-aligned assessments quickly and get instant feedback from students to adjust learning.

Five Card Flickr Designed to foster visual thinking, this tool uses the tag feature from photos in Flickr.

Flipgrid This tool lets students use 15-second to 5-minute videos to respond to prompts. Teachers and peers can provide feedback.

ForAllRubrics This software is free for all teachers and allows you to import, create, and score rubrics on your a tablet or smartphone. You can collect data offline, compute scores automatically, and print or save the rubrics as a PDF or spreadsheet.

Courtesy of JM

SAMR Model

This model provides structure for how we as teachers move to more meaningful uses of technology. This includes moving away from using technology in less impactful ways. The lowest level of technology use is substitution, where we use our white board in exactly the same way you would use a piece of chart paper. That is not enriching learning, it is just a more modern way of doing the same thing that has always been done. The next level above substitution, is augmentation. This is where you may be still substituting, but you found a way to make the use of technology better. For example, an art class where kids would use clipart rather than looking at a magazine to cut pictures out of. The level above augmentation is modification, where we begin to redesign tasks using technology. We take our original task and recreate it using various technologies. The highest stage on this model is redefinition. This is when you create a brand-new learning task, that is not possible without the use of technology, rather than basing what you do on an old way of thinking. This level gets us thinking in a new way. 

I think that the Covid learning experience has moved many teachers from substitution to augmentation/modification, however in order to redefine tasks I think teachers will need more experience and training to do this effectively. If we can get to a point where we can redefine tasks, I wonder if we would be able to engage kids that were previously disengaged?

Brought to you by Kyra @ NU

Coding- Scratch

Coding in Scratch is a free online programming language that breaks coding down into blocks so learning coding can be accessible to younger ages. (Ex. I coded the cat figures or any figure to walk on the square and must more)

Why do we want to learn to code? "Coding is fun" is the most that I heard from the students when they design their own and with their ideas what they could create. The creating activities that engage the students. After finishing one design from coding the feeling of accomplishment I had when I created my first code program. Coding is a challenging puzzle that uses computational thinking to understand the complex problem or develop possible solutions. The more challenge in coding makes me feel rewarded and accomplished. 

This example is one coding program that I had experience working on https://scratch.mit.edu/projects/478233955

"Scratch is a visual programming environment that allows users (primarily ages 8 to 16) to learn computer programming while working on personally meaningful projects such as animated stories and games." (Maloney et al., 2010)

Scratch can be used to teach spatial sense while also learning to code. Learning block coding that can later transition into a better understanding of real coding languages. While learning how to code, students and teachers can learn mathematics concepts at the same time. I Have fun while doing it!

Chi Nguyen-EDU-498 OTECA

Series: Formative Assessment Tools for Teachers 3

There is no shortage of strategies, techniques, and tools available to teachers who use formative instructional practice in their classrooms. Here is a list of digital tools, apps, and platforms that can help you and your students use formative assessment to elicit evidence of learning. 

The tools

1. Coggle A mind-mapping tool designed to understand student thinking.
2. Conceptboard This software facilitates team collaboration in a visual format, similar to mind mapping, but using visual and textual inputs.
3. Crowdsignal Quick and easy way to create online polls, quizzes, and questions. Students can use smartphones, tablets, and computers to provide their answers, and information can be culled for reports.
4. Dotstorming A whiteboard app that allows digital sticky notes to be posted and voted on. This tool is best for generating class discussion and brainstorming on different topics and questions.
5. EdPuzzle Use video to track student understanding.

Brought to you by: JM

TikTok - Often Overlooked As a Learning Tool

Tiktok is a great app that can be used in the classroom, especially today with online learning. With a lack of engagement in the classroom virtually the teacher can use this app to get children excited about something they are learning. For example, teachers can create a classroom page and get all the children to join that page. On a daily or weekly basis teachers can ask students to make a fun video of what they took away from the lesson/week. This will keep children excited that they get to make a TikTok and will keep the students engaged in the classroom and more focused on what they are learning since they need it later on for the video. TikTok's are a great way to allow students to express themselves, allowing them to add in music of their choice, and use creativity such as dance, art. This app will also allow students to learn how to use technology better. Teachers can also use TikTok as a way to get information out there. If there is something that the teacher feels the students need in the future, the teacher can make a fun Tiktok for the students to watch, this can also allow students to better retain the information since it is delivered in a different way. 

Here is a great example of a teacher using this app to teach her students https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMJEEaowL/

Gurleen(OTECC)@NU

Adobe Fill and Sign

Adobe Fill & Sign is a free and efficient app that is used to edit and sign PDF documents. You can create your own signature using your own finger, save the forms or send them immediately. 

This quick and easy app can help students or teachers fill in forms anywhere and anytime. 

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/adobe-fill-sign-form-filler/id950099951

Ema(OTECC)@NU

LiveBinder - Online Binder

LiveBinder is a digital binder platform for online content and learning. The service it provides intends to replace the old format of using 3-ring binders to organize papers and notes. It provides a platform to organize and share all of your online files. 

With LiveBinder, you are able to populate a hub with resources on a topic of your choosing. Almost anything ccan be added to your personal binder, website links, youtube videos, word docs, and so much more! You can also share your online binders via Twitter, Facebook or email. The binders can also be added to blogs or websites. LiveBinders allows for classroom organization to go beyond the classroom! 

As a teacher, this app can be used by students to organize their classwork. Especially in our current schooling situation, in which learning as moved to online. Most students do their work on laptops and tablets, so an online binder is the perfect way to organize schoolwork in a more organized fashion!

https://youtu.be/dM-FgpyVoJU 

Brought to you by Antonio@NU

 

Series: Formative Assessment Tools for Teachers 1

There is no shortage of strategies, techniques, and tools available to teachers who use formative instructional practice in their classrooms. Here is a list of digital tools, apps, and platforms that can help you and your students use formative assessment to elicit evidence of learning. 

The tools

1. Animoto Gives students the ability to make a short, 30-second share video of what they learned in a lesson.
2. Answer Pad Allows teachers to capture data from students using the web or the app. Ideal for the flipped or blended classroom.
3. AnswerGarden A tool for online brainstorming or polling, educators can use this real-time tool to see student feedback on questions.
4. AudioNote A combination of a voice recorder and notepad that captures both audio and notes for student collaboration.
5. Backchannel Chat This site offers a teacher-moderated version of Twitter. An extension of the in-the-moment conversation might be to capture the chat, create a tag cloud, and see what surfaces as a focus of the conversation.

Courtesy of JM@OISE

Series: Formative Assessment Tools for Teachers 2

There is no shortage of strategies, techniques, and tools available to teachers who use formative instructional practice in their classrooms. Here is a list of digital tools, apps, and platforms that can help you and your students use formative assessment to elicit evidence of learning. 

The tools

Biblionasium This online, safe, and simple book network allows teachers to view books students have read, create reading challenges, and track progress. Students also can review and recommend books to their peers.

BrainPOP Use videos on countless topics to shape your lesson plan, then rely on BrainPOP quizzes to see what stuck.

Buncee A creation and presentation tool that helps students and teachers visualize, communicate, and engage with classroom concepts and ideas.

Chatzy Use Chatzy to support back channel conversations in a private setting. These live chats make great companions to classroom discussion, provide exit tickets, or keep a discussion going after the class is over.

ClassKick This app allows teachers to post assignments for students, so both the teacher and peers can provide feedback on the assignment. Students can monitor their progress and work.

Brought to you by JM

BrainPop Blog

BrainPop is an educational, free website that tends to the needs of students in grades K-12. This website covers material in subjects of Science, Mathematics, Social Studies, English, Health, Arts, Music, Engineering and Technology. BrainPop is easy to use for teachers, parents, and students. Each subject is visible as soon as one enters the website. The subject wanted is easily accessible by simply clicking on it. One can then click on the specified strand they would like to teach or learn about. This website also offers over 1,000 animated videos perfect to keep the attention of students. BrainPop is extremely engaging, full of colours, music, and fun! This educational website is not only enjoyable to use, but the educational information offered and taught, sets our future generation up for success.

Written By: Giulia@NU OTECA

Mathies

Mathies is a great website that offers many math based games, math visual tools, learning tools, and activities. Mathies is designed for students of all ages pre-k all the way to grade 12. Teachers can use mathies as a way to have students practise math that has been learned. It can also be used for many different learning tools. For example, mathies provide number lines, graphs, number charts. Each of these tools help to guide students learning and understanding of math, as well as work as an interactive visual making the work more engaging. Mathies is free and can be used on the school computers or for virtual learning on students personal computers. The math games provide a fun way for students to learn especially a topic that can often be dreaded by many students. Overall, mathies is a great tech tool for teachers to incorporate into the classroom. 

Vanessa@NU

ABCYa

ABCYa is a fun and exciting website that provides students the opportunity to play educational games. Anyone can login and play as it is free. Although, the games are best suited for grades pre-k to grade 6. ABCYa offers everything from math, logic, reasoning, to language and spatial. Not only are the games educational they are extremely engaging. Due to the engaging aspect of the website students love to participate without the feeling of being bored while learning. This is a great tool to use in the classroom since it is learning disguised as fun. A teacher can use it as a tool when students are done with their quiet work time, or it can be used during free time. It is a great website for students to practice the skills that the teacher has taught them. It can even be used for online learning as all the student needs to do is visit the website. 

Vanessa@NU

Prodigy

Prodigy is a free educational game that incorporates various math concepts throughout the game. Students have the opportunity to explore a fantasy world where they answer different math questions in order to complete various quests and earn rewards. Prodigy can be easily accessed in the home or school environment. This can allow parents to engage in math learning with their child and support them throughout the process. Educators can incorporate this game within their daily teaching practices, it promotes problem solving and can encourage students to think about math in a fun and creative way. Prodigy allows students to engage in a subject in a meaningful way while practicing different mathematical skills. 

Written by: Daniella@NU

FunBrain

FunBrain is a fun, interactive site designed to strengthen current skills and acquire a new set of skills for ages 2 ½ to 14. First and foremost, it's designed with just the right amount of colour and brightness to take care of elementary student's eyes. This is important as in the present day, we are depending on technology more than ever, yet we want to assure that our eyes and brains will not be greatly affected. Secondly, the site consists of more than 100 games, readings and videos that focus on language arts and math. Each game consists of easy to hard levels in order to exercise what one already knows or take on a challenge. Teachers can also benefit from this site as it can supplement classroom instruction and help students who may be falling behind. The site is safe, educational and enjoyable as it keeps student's interests, learning styles and development in mind. Definitely a tool to check out! 

https://www.funbrain.com/

Paola@NU

GoNoodle

https://www.gonoodle.com/

GoNoodle is a website and an app that can be used by educators in the classroom.  GoNoodle provides videos, these videos are dance videos, sport movement videos, and different movement activities.  This program is great to get the students engaged in a fun and exciting way.  GoNoodle is a wonderful resource for educators to use, it benefits the children's physical wellness, academic success, and their social emotional health.  There are also many GoNoodle videos that can be accessed on YouTube. Simply type in GoNoodle in the search bar and you will be provided with many videos. 

Written by: Laila@NU OTECA

Big Fish

It's o-fish-all I caught the biggest fish! 

Daniella@NU

Learning Phonics for Kids Resources

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NN8gsI2FBQw

Learning phonics may be difficult for some children. Playing a video like this as well as others provided by this YouTube channel allows children to get a visual as well as hear the sounds of the words. These videos also incorporate a story, which I find helps to catch children's attention. 

Brought to you by: Laura @NU OTECA

Why do yoga when you can do superhero yoga!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fnO-lGEMOXk

The Cosmic Kids Yoga YouTube channel has a variety of themed yoga sessions for students based on their interests like the video linked above. Playing videos like these can allow children to have movement breaks as well mental breaks that they may need in a classroom. This can help to promote positive mental health among children. 

Written by: Laura @NU OTECA

Elvis is in the building!

Singing some of his classic songs such as, Jailhouse Rock, Suspicious Minds, Blue Suede Shoes, and many, many more!

Elvis Presley LIVE! Dec 6, 1968, One Night ONLY!

Nicole@NU

A Foodie Must Read!

Check out the LATEST delights featured in The Recipe Book!

Get YOUR COPY before they are all GONE!

Nicole@NU