I have 3 tools today that I think you will find really useful as you begin preparations for the new school year.
1) Instagrok: Research Tool
Instead of heading to Google to find information about a topic when researching, use Instagrok to quickly locate information, links, pictures, etc. Students will find this really handy as they begin researching topics for writing or projects. The best thing is that Instagrok will work on any device! There is a free version with some ads. There is an educator version for $35 per year and if you use Edmodo, there is an Instagrok Classroom app now available! This is a winner for sure! So simple to use. Just type in the topic where it says,”What would you like to learn about?” and click on Grok! That’s all there is to it.
2)Your Next Read: Book Title Resource
Looking for just the right book for a lesson or a theme? Try Your Next Read. This website shares with you different book titles based on a topic or already favorite book. This is really helpful when you begin your reading conferences so you can help students find books based on their interests. This one is free also.
3) Infuse Learning: Student Feedback/Assessment Tool
Want to know what your students are thinking before, during, and after lessons? Use Infuse Learning to check for understanding. Whether you are using iPads or computers, this free webtool is a must have for teachers. We can have students answer questions or even draw responses to questions or prompts. Love having instant feedback from students!
