Wednesday, March 18, 2020

CS First: Code with Google


CS First: Code with Google


Information: CS First is a free curriculum for kids ages 9-14 years old that teaches them how to code. It uses a drag and drop style of coding, using Scratch to create a variety of fun projects, from designing your own Google logo to designing a video game. The great thing about CS First is that it is designed for all levels of experience. Easy to follow videos guide the learner through each stage of creating their project. No prior knowledge is needed for the learner or the teacher/parent!

Items Needed:
  1. Computer
  2. Headphones (preferred but not necessary)



Directions: 
  1. Go to the CS First website
  2. Search for a project to create

    1. You can scroll down to see some example projects or click on the curriculum finder to help you pick an appropriate project
    2. If this is your first time, I recommend trying an introductory project first
    3. Note: Each project states how long it should take (1 hour is standard), this does not mean it will take you this long, it may take longer or shorter. 
  1. Begin watching the videos!
    1. I recommend a split-screen so you can watch the video and create it at the same time; after the video explains something, pause it, and then try it. Resume the video when you are ready. 
    2. Rewatch the video as many times as you need!


Happy coding!

Image result for google coding

Monday, March 16, 2020

Virtual Learning

Virtual Learning

Online learning is the wave of the future but it’s not always easy to navigate the endless resources and tools available. With many schools closing their doors for a few weeks, many teachers are forced to completely digitize their lessons to keep students from falling behind. Here is a list of some of my favorite tools you can try!

Game-Based Assessments: 

Assessments:

Learning with Videos:


Image result for kahootImage result for quizizzImage result for quizlet


Image result for forms logo

Image result for edpuzzle logo Image result for flipgrid



Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Eye-catching Instructional Tools

Tired of repeating directions ten times?! We've all been there! Some times the easiest way for students to remember directions is by using something eye-catching. Here are my top three favorite ways to provide instructions to students.

1. Canva
    This website allows you to create beautiful posters and designs.

2. Piktochart
    This website is great for creating infographics

3. Powtoon
    Create fun and lively videos to delivery your instructions.


Need another great idea? Instead of having students present their projects or assignments using a powerpoint, having them use one of the above to present their information to you.

Here are some of my most recent designs:





Monday, February 4, 2019

Mummify an Apple

One of the great things about teaching social studies is how easy it is to support other subjects and STEM initiatives. I teach 7th-grade social studies and my favorite unit is ancient Egypt! I created an experiment for my students to mummify an apple, essentially turning my classroom into a science class for the day. Check out the lesson plan below!




 

Friday, December 14, 2018

PowerSchool Email

If you use PowerSchool there is an easy way to send a mass email out to all of your students or parents!



Sunday, December 9, 2018

Gmail Tips and Tricks

As a teacher, staying organized is half the battle! Follow these 3 easy steps to organize your Gmail and make your life easier!

Gmail Tips and Tricks

Thursday, December 6, 2018

Holiday Activity

Looking for a fun end of semester holiday activity that will keep your students entertained without having to watch a movie? Try out my Do You Want to Build a Snowman activity. It allows students to build a digital snowman and write a story about him, with self-explanatory directions and videos!

Do You Want to Build a Snowman