TeachersFirst - What's Popular
This page shares the 25 resources most frequently marked as Favorites by TeachersFirst Members in the past 60 days. See what tops the list of TeachersFirst's database of well over 15,000+ educator-reviewed web resources. Find out what other teachers are excited about. Not a TeachersFirst member yet? See the time saving benefits of free TeachersFirst membership.
Zentation - Karl Siegert
Grades
5 to 12
7 Favorites
0 Comments
Do you have a PowerPoint presentation AND YouTube video to combine for your next presentation? Zentation helps you combine these two tools into one dynamic presentation with both the...more
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Do you have a PowerPoint presentation AND YouTube video to combine for your next presentation? Zentation helps you combine these two tools into one dynamic presentation with both the slides AND the video showing side by side. This presentation method can share the "live" presenter (from a video) and his/her slides together on the screen. Watch the demo to see what the results look like. After creating your account, choose New Presentation to begin. Provide a name and description. Click the Start under the Public column. (Premium Private provides additional paid options.) Copy/paste in the link to your prerecorded YouTube or Google video. Upload your PowerPoint from your computer or link to a SlideShare presentation and choose "Upload PPT." Once all uploads finish, use the sync option in your account to add descriptions and modify slide display time as needed to sync with the video. Use the share button to share your finished project via URL, embed into your blog, send through email, or create a link with thumbnail images. If your district blocks YouTube, you may not be able to use this tool at school.
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In the Classroom
Use your existing presentations along with video of you narrating them (or other video) and upload them to Zentation. Zentation is perfect for use in your BYOD or 1:1 classroom. It does use Flash, so iOS devices will not display the results. Use during your presentations to increase student interest and interaction. Share with students for use to combine their own slides and video to create a more dynamic presentation. To find Creative Commons images for student projects (with credit, of course), try Vecteezy, reviewed here. Use Zentation as an excellent resource for creating and sharing review materials on your website. It would also be a great way to "flip" your classroom. Use the video area to include examples of a scientific process (found on YouTube) or even video of students themselves explaining student-created review or presentation slides in a format you can easily share and archive on a class web page or wiki. Anything you can put on video can go in the left video box! If you have students who are too shy to present in person, this would be a great way for them to record and combine slides with video of themselves. Teacher-librarians could record students doing booktalks alongside slides of images from the book or illustrations the students draw themselves.You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
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Dive and Discover - Woods Hole Oceanographic Association
Grades
4 to 12
4 Favorites
0 Comments
What do we see and what can we learn from the Sea floor? Use the Interactive map or the drop down along the top to access past expeditions to the ...more
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What do we see and what can we learn from the Sea floor? Use the Interactive map or the drop down along the top to access past expeditions to the sea floor. Click on the "Dive Into Deeper Discovery" tab to learn more about Deep Ocean Circulation, History of the Earth, Ice Ages, Ships and Technology, among others. Click the "For Teachers" tab to access and view classroom activities to use. The site is updated daily with photos, videos, and research.
tag(s): earth (180), oceans (139), plate tectonics (19), volcanoes (54)
In the Classroom
Use a single activity, have students collect information as homework, or a class project. Use these activities as an introduction to a science lesson or for application for information learned in class. Some activities have a hands-on component. Create a timeline of information, technology, or history from the dives. Have students use the scientific method to analyze work completed during the dives. Research background science and engineering topics for better understanding of information learned during the explorations. Topics for reports can be found throughout the information. The class can be divided into groups to report on specific aspects of the dive and their information can be reported to the class with the additional background information. Students can keep a journal of information learned and create a poster or model of the information.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Understanding Science - National Science Foundation and Berkeley
Grades
K to 12
4 Favorites
0 Comments
Use this free resource for an inside look at the general principles, methods, and motivations that underlie all of science. Take a site tour or view specific topics such as ...more
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Use this free resource for an inside look at the general principles, methods, and motivations that underlie all of science. Take a site tour or view specific topics such as "Scientific Evidence," "Science and Society," and others. Don't miss the interactive pages of "How Science Works" that show scientific method as a dynamic, iterative process, not an oversimplified list of steps. Find other resources in the Resource Library. Find classroom activities, standards, and strategies in "Teaching Resources." Find "Frequently Asked Questions" about science process or even submit your own! Learn about what is science by clicking on "Science 101." Find great teaching resources and advice in the "For teachers" section. The Teachers area is divided into grade sections to find resources easily.
tag(s): data (142), environment (232), experiments (52), scientific method (47)
In the Classroom
Share the interactive "How Science Works" on a projector as you introduce scientific method. Use "Correcting Misconceptions" to aid in helping students with common misconceptions that hinder learning. Use case studies from the "Science in Action" section of the resources. Using case studies is one of the best methods to teach scientific concepts and provides interest in studying something more relevant to their lives. The teacher resources provide great examples of using data to generate hypotheses and learn scientific processes and content. Use the suggestions to convert your present activities into ones that will help students understand the processes of science. Ideas, suggestions, and activities that are explicit and complete.
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Futurity - Futurity.org
Grades
9 to 12
19 Favorites
0 Comments
This site features the latest discoveries by the scientists of top research universities throughout the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. There is a huge selection of topics to explore....more
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This site features the latest discoveries by the scientists of top research universities throughout the US, UK, Canada, and Australia. There is a huge selection of topics to explore. Find current findings and research in the topics of Earth and Environment, Health and Medicine, Science and Technology, and Society and Culture. This free site is funded by the universities partnered in the project solely to share research news directly with the public.
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tag(s): earth (180), environment (232), medicine (54), nutrition (133), scientific method (47)
In the Classroom
Enter an email address to receive daily e-news. Use these articles as a way to connect current research to material being studied in class. If you are looking for informational texts to use for Common Core practice, this is a great place to start! Use to highlight the use of the scientific method and the importance of publishing findings. Critique the presentation of data and graphs. Determine if raw data could be presented in a different way. Assign students to choose a research topic from this site and research background information to present as a poster or a multimedia project. Have students make a multimedia presentation using one of the many TeachersFirst Edge tools reviewed here. Include this site in resources for career explorations or science fair inspiration.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Classroom Management: Face-to-Face, Hybrid, & Virtual - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12
2 Favorites
0 Comments
Discover many resources and ideas for creating positive and effective learning environments in any classroom using the learning modules provided by TeachersFirst. Choose from modules...more
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Discover many resources and ideas for creating positive and effective learning environments in any classroom using the learning modules provided by TeachersFirst. Choose from modules offered by grade levels, virtual classroom management, or technology that provides specific procedures utilizing age/grade-appropriate classroom management tools and techniques in your classroom. If desired, receive a professional development certificate by signing up and completing the course questionnaire.
tag(s): classroom management (128), professional development (352), remote learning (62)
In the Classroom
Take advantage of the learning modules shared on this site to learn new classroom management ideas or revitalize your current classroom management procedures. Share this information with peers during your grade-level planning sessions to support fellow educators and collaborate on best practices. If you would like to document your understanding and participation in completing the learning modules, complete the course questionnaire and share it with your school or district's professional learning team to obtain professional learning documentation.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Gamification Resources - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12
4 Favorites
0 Comments
This collection of reviewed resources from TeachersFirst is selected to help teachers and students learn about and use gamification in the classroom. Various subject areas are included...more
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This collection of reviewed resources from TeachersFirst is selected to help teachers and students learn about and use gamification in the classroom. Various subject areas are included in the collection. Explore online workshops to learn more about gamification. Find tools that you can use to gamify your classroom. Remember to start small with gamification and add more to your gamification "toolbox" as you are more comfortable.
tag(s): coding (82), game based learning (172), gamification (75), polls and surveys (47)
In the Classroom
Create your own games for review and classroom activities. As a final assessment, challenge students to create their own games to share with their peers. Use this collection to find the best gamification tools on the TeachersFirst site!Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Curipod - Curipod AS
Grades
3 to 12
1 Favorites
0 Comments
Curipod creates interactive lessons using AI (artificial intelligence) technology. Tasks include features for making word clouds, adding polls, questions, and more. Visit the Discover...more
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Curipod creates interactive lessons using AI (artificial intelligence) technology. Tasks include features for making word clouds, adding polls, questions, and more. Visit the Discover link to browse through ready-to-use templates or create an account, then copy and edit a lesson using a template or build one in just a few seconds using your prompt and instructions. When creating a new lesson, start with a blank slide or use templates that include a brain break, exit ticket, multiple choice, or complete lesson. For new tasks, add a topic and include standards if desired. Another option allows you to import PowerPoint presentations and PDFs when creating new activities. When ready, share lessons with students using the provided QR code or the join code for students to access at curi.live. View statistics in your dashboard, including the number of times played and player results. Free accounts currently include unlimited players, five private Curipods, a shared workspace, and all core features.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (37), assessment (130), differentiation (74), Online Learning (39), remote learning (62), slides (44), Teacher Utilities (133), teaching strategies (38)
In the Classroom
Use Curipod as a starting point for creating lessons and student activities, then modify the content to fit your curriculum and student abilities and needs. Copy and paste standards when creating a lesson as a starting point to add content for the lesson. When using any AI technology, verify the information provided is accurate before sharing it with students. Use Curripod as a flipped or blended learning activity, share the join code with students, and ask them to complete the activities within a designated period before reviewing together as a class. Easily modify any template to differentiate instruction for different groups of students. For example, when introducing decimals, provide a basic introduction with vocabulary and instructional content to one group of students but add more challenging content, such as adding decimals for students already familiar with this topic. Coordinate with other teachers to create cross-curricular activities or when planning units together.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Microsoft Math Solver - Microsoft
Grades
5 to 12
2 Favorites
0 Comments
Microsoft Math Solver provides step-by-step directions for solving algebra, trigonometry, and calculus problems. The Math Solver also includes a graphing feature to visualize functions....more
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Microsoft Math Solver provides step-by-step directions for solving algebra, trigonometry, and calculus problems. The Math Solver also includes a graphing feature to visualize functions. Use this tool to find answers to specific problems, or use the practice link to find quizzes on different topics, including linear equations, inequalities, and more. If using the app, enter any problem manually or snap a picture of the problem using the device camera. Microsoft Math Solver supports many different languages, making it a valuable tool for use in all classrooms.
tag(s): calculators (38), DAT device agnostic tool (137)
In the Classroom
This site is perfect for use on your interactive whiteboard or projector. Use the practice problems to engage students when learning new math concepts. Create a link on classroom computers for students to use when checking work. Share a link on your class website for students to use at home. Have students provide their attempts at problem-solving. Have students share where they were stuck or having problems in finding a correct answer. How do you prevent this from becoming an instant homework "cheat?" Always start with actual word problems, not equations, so students must first generate their own equations. Require students to "show their work" on paper as they solve, including explaining each step. Even if they are copying from the website, they are still copying down the explanations. If they use their own words, that will show comprehension.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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What is a Statistical Question? - United States Census Bureau
Grades
4 to 8
1 Favorites
0 Comments
What is a Statistical Question is a standards-based teacher's guide for providing lessons to instruct students on creating and identifying statistical questions. During the activity,...more
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What is a Statistical Question is a standards-based teacher's guide for providing lessons to instruct students on creating and identifying statistical questions. During the activity, students determine if the questions are statistical or not and then use the provided Radio Set Ownership Map and the United States Map for students to explore statistical questions and their features. During the final portion of the lesson, students write statistical questions based on data learned in the previous activity.
tag(s): census (12), data (142), statistics (113)
In the Classroom
Take advantage of this free lesson plan and the included ideas to introduce and reinforce the concept of statistical questions to your students. Integrate statistical questions with your lessons using Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets spreadsheets to visualize and analyze data. Ask students to share their data using Displayr, reviewed here to view the information in many different formats, including line graphs, bar charts, infographics, and much more. Extend learning by asking students to become statisticians by creating questions, gathering data, and sharing their analyses with peers. Use Microsoft Forms or Google Forms for students to collect data to begin their investigation.
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Storyvoice - Scholastic
Grades
K to 7
1 Favorites
0 Comments
Step into the world of imagination with Storyvoice to participate in live storytelling sessions happening multiple times per week with children's authors. Join in the interactive experience...more
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Step into the world of imagination with Storyvoice to participate in live storytelling sessions happening multiple times per week with children's authors. Join in the interactive experience as the featured author engages with the audience, answers questions, and even asks some lucky audience members to read along with them! Select the Start Watching! link to join events and view the schedule of upcoming events, then choose to participate on the web app or download Storyvoice for viewing using the Apple or Google Play app. Upcoming events are listed with the author's name, suggested grade level, and the date and time of the event. Recordings are available the following school day and are available for 24 hours; for live shows on a Friday, recordings are posted the following Monday.
tag(s): authors (100), book lists (151), DAT device agnostic tool (137), preK (247), stories and storytelling (37)
In the Classroom
Be sure to check the schedule often for upcoming events and add them to your calendar to take advantage of the opportunity to participate in the Storyvoice activities. Also, remember that recordings are only available for 24 hours following the event, so including them on your classroom calendar is crucial. Prepare for upcoming events by sharing stories from the featured author as a read-aloud or in reading centers. Have students prepare questions to ask during Storyvoice activities, then have your class vote on which questions to have available to share with the author using a voting tool such as Poll Everywhere, reviewed here. Have students write a thank-you letter to the author as a final activity. Find templates for friendly letters and a letter generator tool at Read Write Think, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Yippity - Yippity
Grades
6 to 12
1 Favorites
0 Comments
Study smarter using the power of Yippity's AI (artificial intelligence) tools that convert text or website links into quizzes. Begin by creating a free account using your email address...more
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Study smarter using the power of Yippity's AI (artificial intelligence) tools that convert text or website links into quizzes. Begin by creating a free account using your email address or Google account. Next, paste your notes or a website URL into the provided link; language options include English, Spanish, and Italian. Click the arrow to generate a quiz created from the information given. When complete, Yippity provides a list of flashcards with questions and answers; select test mode to view questions without the responses. If desired, edit questions and answers to suit your needs. Share quizzes using the URL found in the share link. Free accounts offer members the option to create three quizzes monthly.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (37), assessment (130), flash cards (42), quiz (67), quizzes (88)
In the Classroom
Use Yippity to quickly create and share quizzes or provide materials for review based on text or websites. Because Yippity identifies important information, it is a helpful tool for students to use as a study aid; add a link to Yippity on your class website, and encourage students to use Yippity as a study tool for upcoming quizzes and tests. Consider creating a Google Keep, reviewed here, to create a collaborative list of study tools for students to access at school and home. Include additional resources such as Knowt, reviewed here, and Summarize This, reviewed here, to help engage with content through several methods.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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STEM - STEAM - STREAM Resources - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12
1 Favorites
0 Comments
If you are still getting familiar with STEM (STEAM or STREAM), learn all about them through the resources in this collection. What we once referred to as STEM (educational curriculum...more
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If you are still getting familiar with STEM (STEAM or STREAM), learn all about them through the resources in this collection. What we once referred to as STEM (educational curriculum that combines science, technology, engineering, and math) has evolved into STEAM and now STREAM. STEAM includes the original four areas and has integrated art into the mix. STREAM takes it further and adds a layer of reading and writing. You will find helpful information about STEM, STEAM, and STREAM in this collection. In addition, we have curated web resources for all grade levels to help as you plan your activities (lesson plans, interactives, and more).
tag(s): engineering (118), STEM (244)
In the Classroom
We have included resources for all grades. Remember, our "In the Classroom" suggestions with each reviewed resource, give you ideas about using these tools in your classroom.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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If You Build It: Engineering in the Classroom - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12
1 Favorites
0 Comments
If You Build It: Engineering in the Classroom is part of TeachersFirst Help! I Lost My Library/Media Specialist series reviewed here. This article...more
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If You Build It: Engineering in the Classroom is part of TeachersFirst Help! I Lost My Library/Media Specialist series reviewed here. This article includes background knowledge that discusses the evolution of engineering from the development of simple machines through modern times. In addition, this section also provides a short introduction to the components of the engineering process. Activities provided include a list of picture books related to engineering and suggestions for student activities. Additional extension activities include ideas for incorporating coding and design into STEM lessons. Content on this site includes correlations to ISTE and AASL standards.
tag(s): book lists (151), coding (82), problem solving (219), STEM (244)
In the Classroom
Bookmark and save this article as a resource for incorporating literature into STEM lessons. Find many more resources at the TeachersFirst STEM-STEAM-STREAM Special Topics Page found here. Engage younger students in learning about the engineering design process by including the BrainPop activity reviewed here as part of a computer learning center. Extend learning for upper elementary and older students by asking them to complete activities found at Teaching NGSS Engineering Design Through Media, reviewed here. This collection includes lessons that include age-appropriate topics, such as how to keep lemonade cool for younger students and designing a smart power grid for high school students.
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Roadtrippers - Roadtrippers
Grades
1 to 12
10 Favorites
3 Comments
Jump onto your computer and start your road trip! Choose a destination, and start planning the Hotels, Attractions, Natural Wonders, and Weird Stuff for your trip. Plan your trip by...more
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Jump onto your computer and start your road trip! Choose a destination, and start planning the Hotels, Attractions, Natural Wonders, and Weird Stuff for your trip. Plan your trip by entering the starting address and the final destination. Instantly discover the journey's duration, the amount of money needed for gas, and the mileage. Choose the dates you will travel and save your trip. Print your plans, email them to yourself or others, or access your trip plans on the app. Plan several trips and save them in your account. Not sure where you want to go? Discover interesting areas by viewing the stories posted on Roadtrippers. Be sure to preview what you will show students as not all journals are kid friendly.
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This site includes advertising.
tag(s): DAT device agnostic tool (137), field trips (8), virtual field trips (78)
In the Classroom
Bring the world of road tripping to your class! Plan journeys as math challenges to determine the amount of money required. Give students a budget and see what happens. Challenge students to create a dream trip and a budget trip. Find the difference between the two. You could use an online tool such as the Interactive Two Circle Venn Diagram, reviewed here, to replace a paper and pencil Venn Diagram. Bring the settings of your favorite stories to life! Introduce a travel blog by pursuing the saved trip journals. Again, preview what you will show students as not all journals are kid friendly. Post the trips with pictures and a travel diary on your class blog or learning management system (LMS) class group.
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Comments
This is a great tool to explore the world.Melissa, , Grades: 0 - 5
Tammy, OR, Grades: 0 - 9
Great resource!Lacey, , Grades: 0 - 5
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Along - Gradient Learning
Grades
6 to 12
1 Favorites
0 Comments
Along is an online tool for providing digital check-ins and reflection activities with students using audio, video, or text. Share a question with some or all students to encourage...more
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Along is an online tool for providing digital check-ins and reflection activities with students using audio, video, or text. Share a question with some or all students to encourage making connections and check in on student wellness. Students select an option to share their responses, and the teacher views reflections within the Along dashboard. Follow up with students as desired to continue the conversation or to make personal connections with all students. Use the tips and content provided by Along to select research-based questions designed to help students build life skills and confidence. Teachers with students under 13 years of age will need to send home a letter of consent, which Along has provided in Spanish and English and for print or to email. There is also a code of conduct which all students must agree to. To find this information and the forms - from the home page scroll down to and click Code of Conduct from the bottom menu.
tag(s): classroom management (128), communication (132), social and emotional learning (73), Teacher Utilities (133)
In the Classroom
Along makes it easy for you to implement this tool into your classroom with their many free resources. Resources include guides to introducing Along to students and fellow educators. Share the privacy information guide with parents as you begin using this tool. Begin by using the customizable calendar as a method for planning to introduce and use Along. Consider using the information found on the site to create and share a presentation about this product using Google Slides, reviewed here, or by creating a short video using Adobe Creative Cloud Express Video Maker reviewed here. Be sure to show students how to prepare for their responses. If you find some students are reluctant to use one of the modes, for instance, the video, work with that student to help them feel comfortable. Uses for this tool are only limited by your imagination! Check-in with students during long projects or reports to see where they are in the process and if they have any frustrations, check-in after a science lab to see who has questions, ask students at the end of a project or lab what they would do differently next time. Check-in with Language arts book groups to see how students are doing with the novel, their group, the project at the end, etc.
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OK2Ask: Data and Charts and Graphs, Oh My! Let Google Tools Be Your Guide - TeachersFirst
Grades
2 to 12
6 Favorites
0 Comments
This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from February 2020. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.
Humans respond...more
Humans respond...more
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This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from February 2020. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.
Humans respond to and process visual data better than any other type of data. Whether students are learning to collect, organize, graph, or interpret data, this webinar offers proven tools and strategies that assist learners in developing and applying those skills. Together we will explore and plan for the use of forms to collect data, web resources to access data, spreadsheets to manipulate and graph data, and Google MyMaps to visualize data. Students from beginner to advanced can use these tools to visualize and connect math, science, and social studies concepts to concrete, real-world applications. Let's get students excited about learning and help them incorporate complex data literacy into their world view. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels. Participants will: 1. Understand how to use data visualization in the classroom; 2. Explore digital tools that will assist students with data visualization projects; and 3. Plan for the use of data visualization in the classroom. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.
Humans respond to and process visual data better than any other type of data. Whether students are learning to collect, organize, graph, or interpret data, this webinar offers proven tools and strategies that assist learners in developing and applying those skills. Together we will explore and plan for the use of forms to collect data, web resources to access data, spreadsheets to manipulate and graph data, and Google MyMaps to visualize data. Students from beginner to advanced can use these tools to visualize and connect math, science, and social studies concepts to concrete, real-world applications. Let's get students excited about learning and help them incorporate complex data literacy into their world view. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels. Participants will: 1. Understand how to use data visualization in the classroom; 2. Explore digital tools that will assist students with data visualization projects; and 3. Plan for the use of data visualization in the classroom. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.
tag(s): charts and graphs (165), data (142), Google (44), infographics (51), professional development (352), visualizations (11)
In the Classroom
The archive of this teacher-friendly, hands-on webinar will empower and inspire you to use learning technology in the classroom and for professional productivity. As appropriate, specific classroom examples and ideas have been shared. View the session with a few of your teaching colleagues to find and share new ideas. Find additional information and links to tools at the session resource page. Learn more about OK2Ask and upcoming sessions here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Social and Emotional Learning Resources - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12
4 Favorites
0 Comments
Social-emotional Learning (SEL) is the process by which students of all ages develop and use social and emotional skills, knowledge, and attitudes. Using SEL skills, students better...more
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Social-emotional Learning (SEL) is the process by which students of all ages develop and use social and emotional skills, knowledge, and attitudes. Using SEL skills, students better understand emotion, manage their own, and show empathy towards others. SEL skills also help students set and achieve positive goals. Although this is an ongoing process through all grade levels, you can begin to instill these skills and understandings in even your youngest students. We encourage you to find appropriate tools and resources in this collection to use with your students and in your lessons.
tag(s): emotions (46), empathy (26), social and emotional learning (73)
In the Classroom
Find resources to educate yourself and your students about various topics related to social-emotional learning. This collection includes lesson plans, digital check-ins, toolkits, professional resources, and more. Share this curated list with your colleagues and families.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Mensa for Kids - Mensa Foundation
Grades
K to 9
2 Favorites
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Mensa for Kids provides free, high-quality resources for kids and educators that promote empowering intelligence in children. To promote reading across a variety of genres, take advantage...more
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Mensa for Kids provides free, high-quality resources for kids and educators that promote empowering intelligence in children. To promote reading across a variety of genres, take advantage of the Excellence in Reading Program. This program provides reading lists by grade categories that students print, then rate books on a five-star system. Complete the entire list and return to Mensa for Kids to receive a free t-shirt! Select the "Teach" category to find lesson plans and TED Connection Guides for classroom use. The Games portion of the site shares math and language activities shared in conjunction with Arcademics, reviewed here.
tag(s): africa (134), colors (62), genetics (75), geometric shapes (130), gifted (62), hurricanes (35), literature (217), probability (94), STEM (244), stories and storytelling (37), writing (302)
In the Classroom
Enrollment in Mensa isn't required to take advantage of the many resources found on this site for all students. Use the reading lists as a starting point for stocking your class library or a student reading list for the current school year. Encourage students to complete the reading list and return to Mensa for a free t-shirt. Incorporate the lesson plans into your existing curriculum, then differentiate learning as you adapt to student needs. For example, use the Book Review Writing lesson to help students understand the difference between reviews and reports. This lesson also includes specific information on what to have with book reports. Begin by teaching this lesson in small groups, then use Google Jamboard, reviewed here, to create a frame for each of the main topics. Enhance student learning by asking students to add sticky notes with their observations and thoughts. Have your group work together to share their book review using a simple to use blogging tool such as Telegraph, reviewed here. Extend learning further by creating a class podcast sharing book reviews created through the lesson process found on Mensa for Kids. Buzzsprout, reviewed here, is a free tool for creating and publishing podcasts that is appropriate for students of all ages. Use Buzzsprout to record and share book reviews throughout the school year.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
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Geo-fs Flight Simulator - GeoFS
Grades
6 to 12
1 Favorites
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Teachers can take a trip around the world without leaving their classrooms! Geo-fs.com is a free online flight simulator with an open-source platform to render the global landscape...more
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Teachers can take a trip around the world without leaving their classrooms! Geo-fs.com is a free online flight simulator with an open-source platform to render the global landscape you can fly over. This free site will work on any modern web browser, including Chromebooks! You can choose to control your plane with keyboard controls, a mouse, or a joystick. A large ad on the center of the home screen looks like it will run the game. Read the screen carefully to ensure you are not clicking on an ad. A chat feature on the site may cause the site to be blocked at your school. Always test resources before using them in the classroom to be sure they function and are appropriate for your students.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): aviation (34), virtual field trips (78)
In the Classroom
There are various uses for this flight simulator, from a simple flight for exploring the land below to learning more advanced aviation skills. Your students can experience different parts of the world using the Geo-fs flight simulator. Use this site to learn the geography of a region or study various landscapes. Teachers can create a virtual field or lit trips by making a flight plan for their students to follow. Create a challenge or virtual race for your students to complete; the possibilities are endless!Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Shop Til You Drop - TeachersFirst
Grades
6 to 8
20 Favorites
0 Comments
A math and consumer science lesson that lets students build a budget and and menushop to fit their allotted funds and menu. Designed for use on-line, this unit could ...more
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A math and consumer science lesson that lets students build a budget and and menushop to fit their allotted funds and menu. Designed for use on-line, this unit could also be done off-line using newspaper sale advertising. This lesson plan was one of the winners in a lesson plan contest sponsored by TeachersFirst. TeachersFirst editors have added technology options where appropriate.
tag(s): money (117)
In the Classroom
Teachers may also find this lesson useful with older special education or life skills students. Technology options include using web sources for shopping information and coupons and for creating the student projects.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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The Wonderment - Kidnected World
Grades
3 to 9
1 Favorites
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Enjoy and challenge creativity and problem-solving skills in a world of wonder. Once you sign up for The Wonderment, a social platform for kids, choose a bot or secret identity. ...more
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Enjoy and challenge creativity and problem-solving skills in a world of wonder. Once you sign up for The Wonderment, a social platform for kids, choose a bot or secret identity. Given a choice to follow many different paths, kids determine the subject of interest. The paths are real-world problems from around the globe. View a video, story, or idea. Design a response using text, photos, or a video. Join a chat to allow comments or ask questions to make global connections. After each posting, special points are added to make the bot design more elaborate. A personal Wondermeter rises with each response. Through donations, this non-profit brings technology to children around the world. A call for adults to serve as mentors to respond to each child challenges adults to join in the fun and make the world a better place. Register with email. Children under 13 need parent or teacher approval to participate. Click How it Works from the upper right menu to watch the short videos to explaining paths, projects, communities, and generally how The Wonderment works.
tag(s): communication (132), cross cultural understanding (149), enrichment (9), gifted (62), listening (63), Problem Based Learning (12), problem solving (219), social media (51), social networking (70), social skills (22), speaking (21), sustainability (42)
In the Classroom
The Wonderment is a problem based learning adventure for each student around the world to communicate and collaborate with other students. This venue allows great lesson ideas for digital citizenship and digital footprints. Begin by choosing a path for the entire class and feature on an interactive whiteboard or with a projector. Have students work in small groups to choose their best response. Discussions can focus on creativity, problem solving, and collaboration between the group and others from around the world. In a gifted class, use as a way to challenge kids to break through the "right answer" and find the "best answer." Use this as a model for finding authentic needs in your community. Be sure to share a link to this tool on your class blog, website, or learning management system (LMS). Use this tool as the answer for the parents who always want more challenge and enrichment for their students at home. Be sure to share at a staff meeting to spread the wonder for other students and adults.Edge Features:
Parent permission advised before posting student work created using this tool
Includes Interaction w general public/ public galleries with unmoderated content
Includes social features, such as "friends," comments, ratings by others
Requires registration/log-in (WITH email)
Multiple users can collaborate on the same project
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Which One Doesn't Belong? - Mary Bourassa
Grades
5 to 12
1 Favorites
0 Comments
Which One Doesn't Belong provides stimulating and challenging math puzzles. Select a category to find puzzles related to numbers, shapes, and graphs. An additional link contains several...more
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Which One Doesn't Belong provides stimulating and challenging math puzzles. Select a category to find puzzles related to numbers, shapes, and graphs. An additional link contains several incomplete puzzles to finish. The site does not provide a "correct" answer. Each puzzle has multiple (possible) answers providing opportunities for all to choose and justify their response.
tag(s): critical thinking (106), logic (162), problem solving (219), puzzles (143)
In the Classroom
These puzzles are perfect for use with an interactive whiteboard or projector. Use the puzzles as a warm up for any math class or use for journal writing prompts. Use this site for discussion and debate with your gifted students. Challenge students to create puzzles and have classmates solve. Have cooperative learning groups create online books of their puzzles using a tool such as Bookemon, reviewed here. Have students create an annotated image including text boxes and related links using a tool such as Thinglink, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Education for the Real World - EVERFI
Grades
2 to 12
3 Favorites
0 Comments
EVERFI provides free digital curricula in real-world skills through interactive, game-based lessons. Topics include financial education, STEM and career readiness, social and emotional...more
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EVERFI provides free digital curricula in real-world skills through interactive, game-based lessons. Topics include financial education, STEM and career readiness, social and emotional learning, remote learning, summer learning, and more. Select any topic to view the courses offered with a summary and grade-level suggestions. Each unit is correlated to Common Core Standards and includes features such as videos, games, digital lessons, and teacher guides. Use the teacher dashboard to create classes and enroll students after completing the free registration information. Once registered, use the site's features to assign topics that are available for both online and offline learning.
tag(s): cross cultural understanding (149), financial literacy (93), literacy (102), mental health (31), social and emotional learning (73), STEM (244), Teacher Utilities (133)
In the Classroom
Discover the many free resources on this site to provide individual lessons or complete learning units for your students. As students complete assignments, use the many offerings found at Class Tools, reviewed here, to enhance learning through creating timelines, completing graphic organizers, and more. For activities that include new vocabulary, use a digital game creation site such as Baamboozle, reviewed here, to review and practice new words and terms. Have students show what they know upon completion of any of the activities using Adobe Creative Cloud Express for Education, reviewed here, to create a collage, poster, flyer, or multimedia presentation sharing their knowledge of the subject.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
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Mental Floss - Felix Dennis
Grades
6 to 12
6 Favorites
1 Comments
Discover "random, interesting, amazing facts, quizzes, and trivia" at Mental Floss. This magazine-style offering features new posts daily on topics from science, history, culture, and...more
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Discover "random, interesting, amazing facts, quizzes, and trivia" at Mental Floss. This magazine-style offering features new posts daily on topics from science, history, culture, and more. For example, read about 6 Articles of Clothing That Caused Riots! Access the archives via the ALSO ON MENTAL FLOSS links near the bottom of the page for even more offerings. Any reader is guaranteed to learn something new and come away wanting to learn more. Find answers to imponderables or odd thoughts. Sections include Innovations, Words, Lists, and Quizzes with subareas for history, science, pop culture, etc. Click Videos to visit Mental Floss's YouTube channel or related videos. Articles are quick tidbits that invite you to share and learn. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): animals (271), famous people (21), grammar (139), quizzes (88), trivia (18)
In the Classroom
Share Mental Floss on your class web page in any science, history, health, or reading class in middle school and up. Use it as a place for students to discover research topics related to your subject or as prompts for blog posts to get kids writing about something that interests them. Make a regular extra credit offering for students to write a blog post responding to something they learn here. If you have trouble getting students to read informational text, use these factoids as introductions to draw their interest before offering a longer article. Use these articles as starters for information literacy activities. Have partners research to find a corroborating (or debunking) source for the trivia offered here. English teachers will love some of the quick articles on misused or frequently misspelled words. Invite your students in any subject to find an article related to your subject and to create a poster version of that tip or tale using a tool such as Web Poster Wizard (reviewed here).Comments
Awesome for so many topics. Blog post ideas! Love the layout and diversity.Patricia, NJ, Grades: 6 - 12
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Teacherstack - Teacherstack
Grades
K to 6
4 Favorites
0 Comments
Teacherstack helps manage and organize simple classroom tasks such as center rotation schedules, seating charts, and displaying to-do tasks for students. Create your account and add...more
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Teacherstack helps manage and organize simple classroom tasks such as center rotation schedules, seating charts, and displaying to-do tasks for students. Create your account and add students and classes. This site is beneficial for creating Station Rotations. Personalize options within the program to create student groups, add schedules, allot time for each session, add transition time, and more. Display information on your whiteboard for you and your students to view and remain on track.
tag(s): classroom management (128), Teacher Utilities (133)
In the Classroom
Use Teacherstack to manage everyday classroom routines easily. Display on your whiteboard to help students understand group rotation schedules, use the time and transition sound to keep everyone on schedule. Start with longer transition times as you introduce station rotations, then reduce the time as students understand rotation procedures. Create a to-do list to display and share with reminders of upcoming events throughout the day. A to-do list is beneficial for use on days when there are disruptions to normal routines and schedules, such as early release days or special events.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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