Prezi Presentation

So I found this new presentation program, Prezi, which I'm sure most of you have already found but I love it!  It takes a little more time to create than PowerPoint but I like the effect better and I think the kids will enjoy it more also (it sort of simulates a roller coaster).  I have taken on the endeavor of creating a presentation to introduce each vocabulary unit.  I like having the ability to be able to show them a visual either with a picture or video.  I hate to admit that last year I did not do a good job of that with our vocabulary units and hope to make up for it with this bunch coming up.  Here is Unit One!

The possibilities are endless!  In case you were wondering, we use the Sadlier-Oxford Vocabulary Workshop (Level Blue).

Sabra

Apps for the Classroom

So in the past few days I have stumbled upon some fantastic apps for the classroom.  I'm sure some of you have probably come across these a while ago but I'm a newbie to the smart phone so this is exciting for me!

1. Book Source's Classroom Organizer - Classroom Organizer is a free web-based program that allows users to maintain and inventory books in your classroom library. With this amazing tool you can:

- Import titles from your files
   - Add your existing titles
- Import your student roster
- Enable students to check out and return books
- Run assessment reports on student and title activity

I just started scanning my books on Friday and it was addicting!  On Monday I think I will assign a student who has finished their Think 30! Reading Log to scan more!


2. Stick Pick - Allows you to draw a student's name from an on-screen can of popsicle sticks.  When you enter your roster (can enter mutliple groups) you will assign a level of complexity to each student, including ESL, so when that student is picked it will generate a set of questions based on their cognitive and linguistic level.  You choose the one you want to ask and then grade them with a correct, incorrect, or opinion option.  They also have a critical thinking rubric (Bloom's Taxonomy & Bloom's Revised) or degree of elaboration rubrics (ESL Mode).  Hello Marzano!!!

Now this app does cost $2.99 but I bought it today and already started inputting my rosters and complexity levels.  On Monday I will give it a whirl and let you know how it works!

If anyone else already uses this tool, or any other apps, in their classroom please let us know how you implement them!

Sabra