Kid Info Bit Video demonstration
This database is called Kids Info Bits. This is focused on lower elementary children in my opinion. Any age child could use this. It could also be helpful for special needs students to still be able to search and do the same project their classmates are doing. This database is divided by topics and allows you to easily search by topic and subtopics. Once in a specific topic you can find books on this topic, articles as well as videos and pictures. I also really liked that the articles could be read to you and it showed levels such as advanced or basic. I plan to use this for my 6th graders to begin learning how to use databases when we do research papers in the spring.
Tuesday, November 27, 2018
Monday, November 26, 2018
Alabama Virtual Library Demo
Virtual Library Demo
For my demonstration I chose to look at the Alabama Virtual Library from a different perspective. I am not currently in a classroom, therefore I was looking for a resource that I can use at home with my preschool and elementary aged children. I specifically chose the Pebble Go resource to learn about farm animals. The site provides information about a variety of different animals, and includes pictures for engaging younger children. There is also a science section that can be used. Pebble Go was easy to use, and it kept my children engaged. The sound feature was especially helpful as my youngest is only beginning to recognize sight words. This is a great resource whether in a classroom or at home.
For my demonstration I chose to look at the Alabama Virtual Library from a different perspective. I am not currently in a classroom, therefore I was looking for a resource that I can use at home with my preschool and elementary aged children. I specifically chose the Pebble Go resource to learn about farm animals. The site provides information about a variety of different animals, and includes pictures for engaging younger children. There is also a science section that can be used. Pebble Go was easy to use, and it kept my children engaged. The sound feature was especially helpful as my youngest is only beginning to recognize sight words. This is a great resource whether in a classroom or at home.
I chose to use the Brittanica Academic link. Growing up we all had use of encyclopedia sets such as World Book and others. Brittanica was always considered the more academic of encyclopedia sets when I was in school. I found this site very helpful because of the headings that it has. Being a social studies guy, I appreciate how it has headings and links for different disciplines under social studies like political science and geography. My main focus of interest was the link to primary source documents. That was really helpful especially with many districts going to Eureka curriculum which focuses on more document based teaching. The other reason that I chose this site is the helpful flyer that is viewable from the avl website. This site even offers a free 30 minute webinar that teaches one how to use the site. It’s really a great tool that I have not seen with most other document/academic search engines. Very helpful.
View my video!
View my video!
Alabama Virtual Library Demonstration
Alabama Virtual Library Demonstration
I did my presentation on Britannica Elementary. Britannica is online encyclopedia that meets the basic research needs of all ages. My favorite part about it is that you can link the articles to google classroom. You can choose different reading levels, and students can view images and videos related to the article. The site is very easy to navigate, and they regularly update it to cover newly existing material. I would use this in my classroom during Genius Hour, to extend a science or social studies lesson, or for indoor recess. I highly recommend this site!
Melanie Cornelius
Melanie Cornelius
AVL Demonstration Screencast
Click here to watch my screencast!
For my screencast, I focused on the kids info bits resource. I loved this resource. I actually do not use the AVL often because I am a Tennessee mathematics teacher. I do however teach social studies and science also which is where I found this resource to be very helpful. This resource would be great for elementary age students. There are pictures and tools to help the students find the information they are looking for. This website is separated into different categories and sub categories making research easy. The advanced search tool is great because it is user friendly and easy to access. This website tells you content levels, lexile levels, and there is a read aloud option as well. I could easily use this tool to help with research projects in science or social studies. For example, students could research specific animal groups, types, or habitats for out end of the unit project.
Amber Ezell
Click here to watch my screencast!
For my screencast, I focused on the kids info bits resource. I loved this resource. I actually do not use the AVL often because I am a Tennessee mathematics teacher. I do however teach social studies and science also which is where I found this resource to be very helpful. This resource would be great for elementary age students. There are pictures and tools to help the students find the information they are looking for. This website is separated into different categories and sub categories making research easy. The advanced search tool is great because it is user friendly and easy to access. This website tells you content levels, lexile levels, and there is a read aloud option as well. I could easily use this tool to help with research projects in science or social studies. For example, students could research specific animal groups, types, or habitats for out end of the unit project.
Amber Ezell
AVL Screencast Video
Click here to watch the screencast.
URL: https://vimeo.com/302960833
I explored the resource Britannica Elementary. This is a wonderful database for students K-6 grade to teach information literacy. This resource can be utilized by classroom teachers and media specialists. It is crucial that educators teach information literacy skills to students at a young age. Britannica Elementary helps students to gain foundational knowledge in how to search and find information appropriate and relevant to the topic they are exploring. Students are required by Alabama CCRS to collaborate together in a shared research project beginning in kindergarten. This is a great tool for students to work together to gather information on their individual reading levels.
URL: https://vimeo.com/302960833
I explored the resource Britannica Elementary. This is a wonderful database for students K-6 grade to teach information literacy. This resource can be utilized by classroom teachers and media specialists. It is crucial that educators teach information literacy skills to students at a young age. Britannica Elementary helps students to gain foundational knowledge in how to search and find information appropriate and relevant to the topic they are exploring. Students are required by Alabama CCRS to collaborate together in a shared research project beginning in kindergarten. This is a great tool for students to work together to gather information on their individual reading levels.
Alabama Virtual Library Demonstration
Thomas AVL Demonstration
Alabama Mosaic
As a music teacher, I am not familiar with the AVL. After
searching the AVL and experimenting with the resources, I think it is an
excellent tool for students and teachers to use for academic research. I chose
the Alabama Mosaic database to explore. The Alabama Mosaic resource is a
database that allows users to locate digital content that is specific and
unique to Alabama history, places, people, and culture. You can find historical
pictures, newspaper articles, sheet music, recordings, and more through the Alabama
Mosaic database. This database would be useful to high school and college aged
students as well as anyone that enjoys Alabama history. I am using the Alabama
Mosaic database to collect information for a project I will be doing with my band
students. The project will be based on the music of Alabama and the Alabama Bicentennial
celebration. This would be a fantastic resource for an Alabama history course
as well.
Alabama Virtual Library Demonstration
AVL Training
The AVL resource that I used was the Training Resource. I am not familiar with AVL being a mathematics teacher and I used this resource to help guide me through the website. The AVL Training Resource can be accessed by clicking on the training icon at the top of the toolbar. This will open up the training options that you can participate in. The AVL Training Resource has on-site training for you to use and it also has live webinars that you can participate in. The resource that helped me the most was the recorded webinars. These webinars were categorized by primary school, middle and high school, and even advanced searching. These are to assist you in the grade level that you teach or for whatever you may be needing help on. These are short videos that will guide you though the AVL and how to use it. There is also a resource guide that is a clickable link that provides a document summarizing all of AVL's resources.
I know most of you are choosing a database to explore but I chose a different route and used the training resource to help me. This was great for me to explore through the options that the AVL can provide. I hope this video and tutorial was helpful in guiding you through the available resources that AVL offers.
The AVL resource that I used was the Training Resource. I am not familiar with AVL being a mathematics teacher and I used this resource to help guide me through the website. The AVL Training Resource can be accessed by clicking on the training icon at the top of the toolbar. This will open up the training options that you can participate in. The AVL Training Resource has on-site training for you to use and it also has live webinars that you can participate in. The resource that helped me the most was the recorded webinars. These webinars were categorized by primary school, middle and high school, and even advanced searching. These are to assist you in the grade level that you teach or for whatever you may be needing help on. These are short videos that will guide you though the AVL and how to use it. There is also a resource guide that is a clickable link that provides a document summarizing all of AVL's resources.
I know most of you are choosing a database to explore but I chose a different route and used the training resource to help me. This was great for me to explore through the options that the AVL can provide. I hope this video and tutorial was helpful in guiding you through the available resources that AVL offers.
Saturday, November 24, 2018
Alabama Virtual Library demonstration
Explora Middle School database
The AVL database I chose was the Explora Middle Schools database. The Explora database is an interface of the EBSCO host site. Explora provides information to students in various forms such as articles, magazines, books, videos, etc. There are several different versions that students could use. These include Explora for Primary schools, Secondary Schools, Canadian Schools, and Public Libraries. Explora Middle Schools targets 6th-8th grades. There are many features that Explora Middle School provides. The ones that I believe will interest teachers or students are the audio tool, the reading level tool (Lexile Indicator), text to speech, text can be translated, can integrate Google classroom, and it also provides lesson plans and handouts for teachers. This in one tool I would use in my classroom. At our schools, students will receive information about an upcoming project. The science teachers always chooses research tools for students to use. We demonstrate tools and have instructional time that allows students to research their topic. I will use the scavenger hunt and the video I recorded to help students become familiar with using this database. By going through the categories and completing a basic search, I found several topics that related to the upcoming DNA research project. This database will be one of the tools we require students to use.
Alabama Virtual Library Demonstration YouTube Video
Charlie Boyd's Demonstration
The database resource that I selected for my students is "Cloud Computing" by Nayan B. Ruparelia. I chose this resource for a class of high school students in the age range of 16 to 18 years of age, that may find themselves interested in the way that technology works in a cloud-based environment. This resource simplifies the technology in that it is written from a user's point of view. The writer explains what the cloud is, how it works and how one might find themselves in use of cloud technology. I would develop a lesson plan that incorporates technology that most of my students already have in mobile phones, tablets, and computers. The lesson would teach students how to create cloud-based accounts and storage areas for documents and pictures.
The database resource that I selected for my students is "Cloud Computing" by Nayan B. Ruparelia. I chose this resource for a class of high school students in the age range of 16 to 18 years of age, that may find themselves interested in the way that technology works in a cloud-based environment. This resource simplifies the technology in that it is written from a user's point of view. The writer explains what the cloud is, how it works and how one might find themselves in use of cloud technology. I would develop a lesson plan that incorporates technology that most of my students already have in mobile phones, tablets, and computers. The lesson would teach students how to create cloud-based accounts and storage areas for documents and pictures.
Alabama Virtual Library Demonstration
AVL Demonstration Video
I chose to look at the GALE PowerSearch Resource. When looking at the available resources this specific resource seemed to offer a great deal of flexibility with its search while also having access to a great deal of academic writings, videos and etc. This resource would most likely benefit those that are high school or above. I do not feel that students who are younger than high school would be able to understand exactly how to utilize the resource to get the most out of it, which is why I say high school and above. I know for myself I will use this resource to search different Health topics for my health classes to help give up to date articles, information and statistics since the text book that we currently use is extremely out of date.
AVL Demonstration Video
I chose to look at the GALE PowerSearch Resource. When looking at the available resources this specific resource seemed to offer a great deal of flexibility with its search while also having access to a great deal of academic writings, videos and etc. This resource would most likely benefit those that are high school or above. I do not feel that students who are younger than high school would be able to understand exactly how to utilize the resource to get the most out of it, which is why I say high school and above. I know for myself I will use this resource to search different Health topics for my health classes to help give up to date articles, information and statistics since the text book that we currently use is extremely out of date.
Thursday, November 15, 2018
Alabama Virtual Library demonstration
Alabama Virtual Library demonstration
The resource I chose to demonstrate is the Britannica resources. I focused on the Britannica High School because it provides information that high school students would use in research projects. The website provides primary sources that students and teachers can both use. The focus on this resource is to provide students and teachers with up-to-date resources on a variety to topics. There is information available for all curriculum that students might need. While I chose to focus on the high school site, there are also resources available from Britannica for elementary and middle school students. I believe that I can encourage my teachers to use the website while they are working on research projects. Because of the wide range of information on the site, all of our teachers will be able to use it. As I expand my knowledge in the library media center, I will continue to encourage faculty and students to use the free resource to research for projects.
The resource I chose to demonstrate is the Britannica resources. I focused on the Britannica High School because it provides information that high school students would use in research projects. The website provides primary sources that students and teachers can both use. The focus on this resource is to provide students and teachers with up-to-date resources on a variety to topics. There is information available for all curriculum that students might need. While I chose to focus on the high school site, there are also resources available from Britannica for elementary and middle school students. I believe that I can encourage my teachers to use the website while they are working on research projects. Because of the wide range of information on the site, all of our teachers will be able to use it. As I expand my knowledge in the library media center, I will continue to encourage faculty and students to use the free resource to research for projects.
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
App review
CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.HSG.CO.A.5
Given a geometric figure and a rotation, reflection, or translation, draw the transformed figure using, e.g., graph paper, tracing paper, or geometry software. Specify a sequence of transformations that will carry a given figure onto another.
Given a geometric figure and a rotation, reflection, or translation, draw the transformed figure using, e.g., graph paper, tracing paper, or geometry software. Specify a sequence of transformations that will carry a given figure onto another.
Notability.
iOS and Android compatibility. Several positive reviews. I chose this app because of how easy it is to construct geometric shapes. The app lets you draw perfectly straight lines from points to perfect slope. I Like the fact that the app let’s you draw on grids like that of a coordinate plane. That makes it easy for students to create an x and y axis to create their constructions on. Cost is $9.99. A stylus of some kind is required. I have been using this app on an IPad Pro with an Apple Pencil and the two work together seemlessly. One extra added benefit is that the app allows you to make multiple pages on the same note. It really is a terrific app. Students, parents, and teachers are all equally able to use the app. For ages 4 and up.
Geogebra.
This app is very good for constructing shapes, angles, and planes. It is compatible with iOS and is recommended for ages 4 and up. It is a free app which makes it even more popular with teachers and students. The app allows for search for activities from within it and allows save and share ability for work that is created by a user. Family sharing is a feature where the same app can be used on multiple devices. Getting used to dragging points might inhibit new users but once that skill is mastered the app is very easy to use. It took me a few minutes to get the hang of it. It is compatible with iPhone but I had a better experience using it with an iPad simply because of the larger screen to work with.
Geometry Pad
Another cool app is the Geometry Pad app. I liked this app because of the tools it includes that help users construct bisectors and other difficult items. The basic app is free but there are in app purchases available for 6.99. Teachers might find these tools worth paying for but for students the free version will suffice nicely. The app is iOS and Android compatible and a stylus is required for the apps best work. Better and specific support for the Apple Pencil would be a nice feature but the app is not optimized for that. Better optimization could be had for those using a 12.9 inch iPad pro as opposed to a 10.5 inch screen. The app is recommended for use for those 4 and up. The app requires iOS 9 or greater and has multi language support.
I am a geometry teacher and I use these apps regularly in my classroom and with my students. Many of my students struggle with use of traditional pencil and paper construction of geometric shapes and these tools have been a great help to give the students the exposure of the concepts of construction. They also incorporate technology and principles that the students use on a daily basis. The learning curve for the students is not as big as it could be. Students these days struggle with the conceptual largely because of their dependence on technology. That is why Geogegra is my favorite. It creates an opportunity for the students to work any manipulate things like size, position, length, orientation and see how things are put together and work in conjunction to visualize geometric principals and theorems. Geogebra also lets the students share their work. This is the selling point for me! I highly recommend it.
Sunday, October 21, 2018
App Review
Common Core: Standards for Mathematical Content 3.OA.A.1
Represent and solve problems involving multiplication and division.
This app is helpful when learning mathematical concepts. It can be used as a supplemental activity to better explain the process of multiplication and division. This app allows students to play individually or compete in a game format. There is a training session that can be used to practice multiplication and division. There is also an duel section. Students can compete against peers or parents. Each player is set up on their own difficulty level to allow a level playing field. In a duel, players answer questions quickly. The first player to get the correct answer receives a star. First player to 5 stars wins. The app is available on any IOS device. Cost is $2.99 and recommended for ages 4 and up.
This app is so much fun. This app offers more than 100 different games to help students enhance their math skills. A number of different topics are covered including multiplication and division on numerous grade levels. Students can play individually and complete against other students or siblings by moving up the leader board. The app if free, but does have in-app purchases. Recommended for ages 4 and up.
This app was designed to assist in the preparation of students for standardized testing. It covers a wide variety of topics in quiz formats. Students can test their knowledge and allows educators and parents to see where the student is when referring to knowledge. Students are encouraged to continue to work through various quizzes to expand their knowledge and increase their scores. The app is $1.99 and is designed for 3rd grade students. IOS compatible.
This school year I have watched my 3rd grade son struggle to understand common core math. He has gone from an all A student to a struggling math student. As a parent I have struggled to assist him as the new way to do math is much different than I was taught. I am constantly looking for ways to once again make math fun, and help assist him obtain the necessary skills to succeed. On one hand he is asked to throw out answers quickly, yet show his written problems in a lengthy way. We both enjoyed the Fun Math Games app. As we worked through the different skills, I saw things begin to click. Where he once hated the thought of working any math problems, he actually asked us to play it again. This will definitely be an app we continue to use in our household. I think this will also be a fantastic app to recommend for parents to use. It would be difficult to use in a classroom as a free version due to possible ads. If used in a classroom setting you would have to purchase an ad free version is available.
EIM 505 App Reviews
ISTE Standards for Students
3. Knowledge Constructor- Students critically
curate a variety of resources using digital tools to construct knowledge,
produce creative artifacts and make meaningful learning experiences for
themselves and others. Students: a. plan and employ effective research
strategies to locate information and other resources for their intellectual or
creative pursuits.
c. curate information from digital resources
using a variety of tools and methods to create collections of artifacts that
demonstrate meaningful connections or conclusions.
d. build knowledge by actively exploring
real-world issues and problems, developing ideas and theories and pursuing
answers and solutions.
Tonal Energy is a tuner/metronome app that was
designed for musicians at any level from beginner to professional. The app can be used to tune instruments
and function as an ear trainer for musicians. The metronome is handy in setting music tempos and for
practicing scales/music. The app saves information so that musicians can record
and share their daily progress. The Tonal Energy app is listed on iTunes for
$3.99. It is appropriate for any age musician. It is available for iOS and Android devices. As an Apple
Educator, I trust iTunes when reviewing an app for credibility and up to date
information.
Smart Music is an interactive practice app that
allows musicians to record practice sessions and play along with professional
musicians. The app is designed for any musician at any level from beginner to
professional. The app can be used to create portfolios and as an assessment
tool for teachers. Users have access to a huge collection of method books,
concert literature, and solo literature. SmartMusic is available on all
platforms. The SmartMusic app is
offered on iTunes for free but to use the full app, a valid subscription must
be purchased. As an Apple Educator, I trust iTunes when reviewing an app for credibility
and up to date information.
GarageBand is an Apple product. It is used to
compose music, add music to movies, and function as an on the go recording
studio. This is a great app to use when introducing students to music
composition. It is also user friendly and easy to navigate. The app is appropriate for any age
musician from beginner to professional. GarageBand can only be used on iPhones
and iPads. The GarageBand app is available on iTunes for free. As an Apple
Educator, I trust iTunes when reviewing an app for credibility and up to date
information.
Out of the three apps I listed, I use the Tonal
Energy app daily. I encourage all of my students from sixth grade to high
school to purchase the app. We use it in every band class and students are
already familiar with it. I have found it to be one of the best tools to teach
students how to tune their instruments and train their ears. It is great for
visual and auditory learners. It is easy to use and students find it engaging,
and a fun app to use.
App Reviews
ISTE Standard:
Designer: Educators design authentic, learner-driven activities and environments that recognize and accommodate learner variability
5a
Use technology to create, adapt and personalize learning experiences that foster independent learning and accommodate learner differences and needs.
Nearpod
Classkick
Classkick is an app that allows teachers to create their own lessons using their own worksheets, drawings, text, images, audio, links, and videos to provide instruction or create assessments. Teachers can see the whole class working at once on his/her device and see how each individual student is performing. The teacher can identify struggling students or students who are too shy to ask questions. And, students can work at their own pace. Students can ask questions and raise their hand privately by just clicking on a button. The teacher can even reteach a concept on the device so the whole class can see. ClassKick also allows students can help their peers. Students can even use ClassKick from their device at home. Classkick is a free app. Its lessons can be used from Pre-K to higher levels of education. Classkick can be used in a web-browser, Chromebook, or iPad. This review site is a trustworthy site because its domain is controlled by the University of Massachusetts.
Educreations
Educreations is an interactive white board or screencasts that allows teachers to create and share their lessons and use other lessons from a central archive. Educreations allow teachers to record their voice, handwriting and allows to insert pictures to produce their own personal video lessons that they and their students can share online. The lessons are stored online and can be accessed by students on any computer or iPad. This allows students to pause, rewind, and listen to their teacher again. This is a free app. Its lesson can be used from grade K-12. Educreations can only be created on an iPad 2 or newer but can be viewed from an iPad or web browser. Commonsense.org is a up to date site, it's authored by J. Steyer, a very professional site and writing, and a credible domain.
I believe that all three a very good apps to use in the classroom. Of the three, I believe that Classkick is the best. This app allows students to learn the material at their own pace. It allows teachers to use all learning styles in the classroom. This app does personalize students' learning. This app also allows teachers to their students’ questions. It shows teachers exactly what their students are doing and who needs help on a specific part of their assignment. This helps students to stay engaged and provides meaningful learning for the students.
Designer: Educators design authentic, learner-driven activities and environments that recognize and accommodate learner variability
5a
Use technology to create, adapt and personalize learning experiences that foster independent learning and accommodate learner differences and needs.
Nearpod
Nearpod is an app that supports
engagement through presentation. Lectures are no longer one-way boring presentations
but have built in engagement that can be shown on students’ devices. This is
highly beneficial for collaboration. Quizzes can be created to immediately
survey student comprehension and to gain feedback, and results can be shared
with the class in an anonymous way. The main use of Nearpod is to break up
content from lectures or presentations by combining presentations slides and
engagement slides. You can insert polls, quizzes, open-ended questions or even
interactive drawings. The cost of Nearpod varies. For the Silver edition, it's
free if you use presentation that are already created. If you create your own
presentation, you can get up to 5 free self-created presentations. The Gold membership
cost $120/year, Platinum membership $349/year, and the prices vary if the
school or district purchases Nearpod. Nearpod lessons can be used for grades K-12. Nearpod can be used on
any device that uses the latest version of Google Chrome. Commonsense.org is a
up to date site, it's authored by J. Steyer, a very professional site and
writing, and a credible domain.
Classkick
Classkick is an app that allows teachers to create their own lessons using their own worksheets, drawings, text, images, audio, links, and videos to provide instruction or create assessments. Teachers can see the whole class working at once on his/her device and see how each individual student is performing. The teacher can identify struggling students or students who are too shy to ask questions. And, students can work at their own pace. Students can ask questions and raise their hand privately by just clicking on a button. The teacher can even reteach a concept on the device so the whole class can see. ClassKick also allows students can help their peers. Students can even use ClassKick from their device at home. Classkick is a free app. Its lessons can be used from Pre-K to higher levels of education. Classkick can be used in a web-browser, Chromebook, or iPad. This review site is a trustworthy site because its domain is controlled by the University of Massachusetts.
Educreations
Educreations is an interactive white board or screencasts that allows teachers to create and share their lessons and use other lessons from a central archive. Educreations allow teachers to record their voice, handwriting and allows to insert pictures to produce their own personal video lessons that they and their students can share online. The lessons are stored online and can be accessed by students on any computer or iPad. This allows students to pause, rewind, and listen to their teacher again. This is a free app. Its lesson can be used from grade K-12. Educreations can only be created on an iPad 2 or newer but can be viewed from an iPad or web browser. Commonsense.org is a up to date site, it's authored by J. Steyer, a very professional site and writing, and a credible domain.
I believe that all three a very good apps to use in the classroom. Of the three, I believe that Classkick is the best. This app allows students to learn the material at their own pace. It allows teachers to use all learning styles in the classroom. This app does personalize students' learning. This app also allows teachers to their students’ questions. It shows teachers exactly what their students are doing and who needs help on a specific part of their assignment. This helps students to stay engaged and provides meaningful learning for the students.
Saturday, October 20, 2018
App Review
ISTE
Standards for Students
6. Students communicate clearly and
express themselves creatively for a variety of purposes using the platforms,
tools, styles, formats and digital media appropriate to their goals.
b. Students choose the appropriate platforms
and tools for meeting the desired objectives of their creation or
communication.
This app
is only available through the App Store for iOS including iPhone, iPod Touch,
and iPad devices at a cost of $2.99 to download it. It was created for kids age
10 through high school. The program is an app where students can create movies
or pictures and change the background through green screen. They simply take a
video or picture in front of the screen and later change the background to
whatever they choose. It’s a great way for students to enrich their
presentations and personalize them. The review says that the app is pretty easy
to use. I believe the site I found the review on is credible because it is the
iTunes Apple site which reviews every app that is submitted to ensure that it
works the way that it is expected to and is free of any offensive material.
Stick
Around is an app that is only available on the App Store and is compatible for
iPads. Students are able to create their own puzzles and play games while they
are learning. It is as simple as 3 steps to create a puzzle using uploaded
pictures and images within the program. It can be downloaded for $2.99 and is
meant for any age children. Students are able to place locations on a map,
label items on a diagram, create a timeline plus several other tasks. I believe
the site I found the review on is credible because it is the iTunes Apple site
which reviews every app that is submitted to ensure that it works the way that
it is expected to and is free of any offensive material.
According
to Common Sense Media, “This is a top-quality creation tool that lets students
of many ages and abilities publish their own digital books”. Originally
designed for iPads and Chromebooks, this app makes creating pages simple,
allowing students time to showcase their creativity throughout their book.
After receiving a short tutorial, students should be able to create their own
book for any project. Once your students have created a book, they can share it
through email, AirDrop, Google Drive or other online tools. They can also
publish their book through iBooks. The app is meant for students in grades
3-12, however, there are reviews from teachers of 1st and 2nd
grade students that have used it successfully in their classrooms. Common Sense
Media is a non-profit organization that is known for providing students, parents,
and educators with accurate, trustworthy information. It also provides up to
date accurate information on digital citizenship that educators and parents can
use to teach children how to stay safe. The cost to use Book Creator is $60 for
1 teacher, to create up to 180 books. This includes creating 3 libraries to
store up to 60 books each. School districts can purchase a school wide
membership which allows each teacher up to 1000 books, but for this type of
membership, the district must contact the company for a quote. At that level,
the app can be integrated with Clever (my school uses Clever) and other
management systems.
After
reviewing these apps, I would have to say the one that I am most interested in pursuing
is Book Creator. It is a program that teachers
can incorporate in to a variety of lessons in all subject areas. The ease of
use makes it a choice for lower elementary teachers to use as well as high
school teachers. It allows students to show their creativity while learning.
This app is an excellent choice.
App Review
TN common core Mathematical Standard: 3.OA.A.4 Determine the unknown whole number in a multiplication or division equation relating three whole numbers within 100. For example, determine the unknown number that makes the equation true in each of the equations: 8 x ? = 48, 5 = ? ÷ 3, 6 x 6 =?
Montessorri Math Multiplication
The Montessorri Math App has a few different apps that focus on different mathematical practices. The one I want to focus on is the multiplication app. This app, like the other Montessorri Math apps, was designed by experienced teachers that want to help parents and students use tools to help them better understand mathematical objectives. This app is really fun for students to play on and allows them to use manipulatives as needed. I love that it doesn't just focus around the gaming aspect but it is really focused on the math component. There are many learning activities, 3 different fun games, a motivational monster lab to keep students engaged, and a toolbox that students can use that has multiplication facts. This app can be used on iPhones, iPads, ipad minis, and other iOS systems. This app is best for ages 6-10 years of age and is $3.99 on the apple store.
The apple store is the review page which is a creditable source for reviews and information.
Montessorri Math Multiplication
The Montessorri Math App has a few different apps that focus on different mathematical practices. The one I want to focus on is the multiplication app. This app, like the other Montessorri Math apps, was designed by experienced teachers that want to help parents and students use tools to help them better understand mathematical objectives. This app is really fun for students to play on and allows them to use manipulatives as needed. I love that it doesn't just focus around the gaming aspect but it is really focused on the math component. There are many learning activities, 3 different fun games, a motivational monster lab to keep students engaged, and a toolbox that students can use that has multiplication facts. This app can be used on iPhones, iPads, ipad minis, and other iOS systems. This app is best for ages 6-10 years of age and is $3.99 on the apple store.
The apple store is the review page which is a creditable source for reviews and information.
Llama Drama is so much fun! this app is originally $2.99, however they have a combo pack which includes multiplication and division for $3.99. In this app, Students build arrays by catching wild animals and putting them in their rows and columns. Students have to find the unknown number in the equation to move on. This app connects math to real life and allows students to enjoy learning their multiplication facts. I love that if a student is stuck and can not quite figure the problem out, there is a hints option to help students without just giving them the answer. There is no third party ads however there is one in app purchase that will unlock the rest of the puzzles in the app. My only problem with this app is that it doesn't save your progress, which means you must start over each time. This app is best for students age 6-9 and up if you use the division one as well. This app is available on the apple store which is a creditable source for honest and true reviews. This app is compatible for any IOS devices.
This app is only focused on the mathematical concepts. There is only one "Game" and it allows the students to compete against each other for points. This app will help with whole group instruction, small group instruction, or math rotations. This app allows students to build arrays to understand and solve multiplication problems. Students can write their answer on the app with the finger or stylist.Students can also use repeated addition for the multiplication facts. this app is used on any IOS devise and is on the apple store which is a credible source for honest reviews. This app is $2.99 and is user friendly for 4+ years of age.
I really enjoy the Montessori Math app. I love that it is not focused so much on the games but that is an extension. I also love that they have manipulatives to help students and it tracks their progress. Students do not always think to use some of the tools they know how to use, such as different models. However this app has a toolbox so students have everything they will need to be successful. It isn't expensive to buy, so parents would more willing to purchase it for extra support at home. I also love that it has a strict privacy setting which doesn't allow ads, social media connections, or in app purchases. Therefore the data and information about the students are safe there is no fear of them seeing or getting on another website that they should not.
Wednesday, October 17, 2018
App Review
This app would help teach any RL (Reading Literature) second grade standard.
Epic Books is a digital library for kids. There are audiobooks, learning videos, quizzes and much more. It is another way to get students excited about reading. The app is free for teachers and students. Once the teacher sets up a classroom, there is a class code that the students use to login for free. This app is recommended for elementary age students. This app is available on iPads and iPhones. The website can be accessed through any computer. The review site I have linked is a credible source because it is the official apple store preview. The reviews are honest and creditable.
Standard: See below – App is directly aligned with math common core standards.
Prodigy is an app for grades 1-8. It’s a great game for mastering math skills. All of the educational content is free, but you can pay money to unlock extra content.My favorite part about this app is that all content is directly aligned with common core standards. Once the teacher creates a class and selects a grade level, it automatically links to grade level standards. The app is designed for the iPhone and iPad, but the website is available on any computer. I have linked the reviews directly to the apple store preview, so I know the reviews are credible.
Aligns with common core RL (reading literature) standards.
Teach your monster to read is a phonics and reading app for preschool – first grade. I sometimes use it in second grade for my below level readers. The app helps teach students to read by reviewing letter sounds, matching letters, and little books. The app is $4.99, but if a teacher sets up an account, the students to play on a computer for free. Requires iOS 6.0 or later. Compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. I have linked the reviews directly to the apple store preview, so I know the reviews are credible.
I think the prodigy app is the best one. My students cannot get enough of this game. They play at home and at school. I love this app because the teacher can assign common core standards to individual students based on needs, or assign a standard for the whole class to work on. You can align prodigy play to exactly what you are currently teaching in class. If you don’t align a standard, it will just have them work on all standards. As a teacher, you will also get a weekly report on student progress. You can see what students are having trouble with each standard. Parents will also get a weekly report if they link their email to their students account. The breakdown of standards helps me determine the guidance of my teaching and the student’s understanding.
App Reviews
Standard: Florida State SS.5.G.1.6
I have always taught the states in my 5th and 6th grade classes. I had a hard time finding an Alabama standard for this though.
1.State Bingo and Road Trip US
This app allows students of all ages to learn their states in multiple wants. Children can play state bingo, and also play a trivia game to learn information about each state. Once you learn information about each state you receive a "statehood". The goal is to learn all 50 statehoods. This app has 3 different levels in both games. Easy, medium and hard so it is great for multiple different age groups. This app will grow with the students and continue to challenge them. The app does cost $2.99 and is only compatible for the iPad. There are other versions of the same game available for the iPhone also.
2. Shake the States
This app is an electronic wooden puzzle. It allows students to slide the puzzle pieces into the correct spots. There are 2 levels. The first level has the outline of the states. The 2nd level does not have an outline. You have to remember where the state goes without any visual help. This app also has geography questions in it to challenge the students. This app costs $1.99 and is available on iPhone, iPad and android. The tablet version works better due to its size.
3. Learn the States with Flat Stanley
This app has a free version and a paid version. The free version is an introduction and if you want more, you can pay $1.99 for the paid version. The free version is available on iPad, iPhone and Android. The paid version is iPad only. In this app you can learn the spelling of the states, learn their region, and where they are located. You can also learn interesting facts like the state bird, state flag and landmarks.
If I had to chose just one of these, I believe the State Bingo and Road Trip app is the best. It seems to be the most user friendly and appeal to the biggest audience. I like that it has 2 different games built in and multiple levels. Students can work to earn all 50 "statehood" badges in all 3 levels. This app does cost the most but it isn't that costly. If a class did a $10 app fee each year there would still be money left over for other apps.
I have always taught the states in my 5th and 6th grade classes. I had a hard time finding an Alabama standard for this though.
1.State Bingo and Road Trip US
This app allows students of all ages to learn their states in multiple wants. Children can play state bingo, and also play a trivia game to learn information about each state. Once you learn information about each state you receive a "statehood". The goal is to learn all 50 statehoods. This app has 3 different levels in both games. Easy, medium and hard so it is great for multiple different age groups. This app will grow with the students and continue to challenge them. The app does cost $2.99 and is only compatible for the iPad. There are other versions of the same game available for the iPhone also.
2. Shake the States
This app is an electronic wooden puzzle. It allows students to slide the puzzle pieces into the correct spots. There are 2 levels. The first level has the outline of the states. The 2nd level does not have an outline. You have to remember where the state goes without any visual help. This app also has geography questions in it to challenge the students. This app costs $1.99 and is available on iPhone, iPad and android. The tablet version works better due to its size.
3. Learn the States with Flat Stanley
This app has a free version and a paid version. The free version is an introduction and if you want more, you can pay $1.99 for the paid version. The free version is available on iPad, iPhone and Android. The paid version is iPad only. In this app you can learn the spelling of the states, learn their region, and where they are located. You can also learn interesting facts like the state bird, state flag and landmarks.
If I had to chose just one of these, I believe the State Bingo and Road Trip app is the best. It seems to be the most user friendly and appeal to the biggest audience. I like that it has 2 different games built in and multiple levels. Students can work to earn all 50 "statehood" badges in all 3 levels. This app does cost the most but it isn't that costly. If a class did a $10 app fee each year there would still be money left over for other apps.
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