Home » TECH TOOLS » Page 2

Category: TECH TOOLS

how-to-changoutlook-email-signature

How to Change Outlook Email Signature

How to Change Outlook Email Signature

 how-to-chanoutlook-email-signature

Finally have an email signature created but not sure how to add it in your email? Once added correctly into Outlook, the signature will be automatically added after the body of the email. Follow these easy steps on how to do this in Outlook.

How to Change Outlook Email Signature Video Tutorial

Having an email signature is essential. This allows your audience to know exactly who you are and other ways to contact you in the future. It’s also an opportunity to add a face to the name. With your email signature, you want to make sure people know who you are when it’s best to reach you and other qualifications that make you stand-out and be memorable.

After changing the size dimensions of the Google Slide and editing, this can then be downloaded and inserted into your email platform. If for some reason the image turns out blurry after downloading, screenshot the image. This can sometimes get a more clear image for your email.
Email signatures can be added at the end of all of the message automatically. This isn’t something you need to do manually every single time.

Unsure how to do this? 

Don’t feel like formatting the dimensions of the Google Slide on your own? I’ve saved you time with my Photo Email Signature Template. Just open, edit, download, and add!

Click here to grab this template for your email signature creation!

Other blog posts you might enjoy:

 how-to-change-outlook-email-signature

How did your email signature turn out? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

Want more resources to support Technology & STEM all year long? Grab this FREE downloadable guide that I’ve put together for you!

how-to-add-a-timer-to-google-slides

How to Add a Timer to Google Slides

How to Add a Timer to Google Slides

how-to-add-a-timer-to-google-slidesLearn how to add a timer to Google Slides with this video tutorial. This tech tip can can help students manage time in your classroom. In just a few clicks, classroom productivity can be enhanced.

How to Insert a Timer to Google Slides Video

When picking the video timer to add to the slides, double check the timer sound first. There have been many occasions when I've had a timer that's made the worst sound. Sometimes it's even sounded like the fire alarm going off!

Google Tools Scavenger Hunts

Interested in growing your students' Google Tools capabilities? These scavenger hunts are a great way to have students find and apply common digital literacy skills. 

You and your students will get to enjoy [for each digital tool]:

  • Prompting for student learning and reflection
  • A pre-reflection sheet to rate comfortability with the technology tool
  • Organized places to write and take notes about the technology tool before using it

 

Student-led scavenger hunt tasks to learn basic functions in an authentic experience

  • 12 Google Drive
  • 8 Google Docs
  • 18 Google Slides
  • 18 Google Forms
  • Post-reflection sheet for students to write excitements, frustrations, and wonderings

Animated and full-color, Google Slide presentation to teach students…

  • What Google Drive, Docs, Slides & Forms are
  • The difference between the Google App and another similar tech tool
  • Where to access each Google Tool
  • Prompting and directions for student-led scavenger hunt

BONUS!

  • All slides & worksheets are 100% editable
  • A Black & White animated version of the mini-lesson is also included for ink-saving printing
  • Colorful anchor chart showing what Google Tools are like in real life

how-to-add-a-timer-to-google-slides

Other Blog Posts You Might Enjoy:

 

What other Google tools tricks do you love? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

 

digital-interactive-notebook

How to Use a Digital Interactive Notebook in the Classroom

How to Use a Digital Interactive Notebook in the Classroom 

digital-interactive-notebook

When I was a classroom teacher, I needed a way to integrate non-fiction resources to help build background about topics for literacy and science. 

There were plenty of books in the school library that we were using, but I also wanted students to access information using online resources.

Soon, I came up with a digital interactive notebook template that I could send to students with a variety of resources to engage and learn from. 

 

These can be an asset in your classroom and be used in any content area. 

 

Digital Interactive Notebook: What is it? 

A digital interactive notebook is a way to combine all of your digital resources for students in one file that is already organized for you! Students have access to all the links and places to respond within one paperless platform. 

There are still benefits to interactive notebooks that involve cutting and pasting. Having digital options allows for less prep time and assigning quickly to students. 

Using this technology option also helps build students’ digital literacy skill; copy & paste, resizing images and toggling between website tabs are just a few skills students will continue to practice. 

 

digital-interactive-notebook

Digital Interactive Notebook: How Do I Prepare One? 

I prefer creating my templates in Google Slides and save the template as the background. I then add the moveable and editable pieces on top that I want students to access. 

The same templates I create in Slides can also be downloaded and used in Seesaw or Powerpoint. 

If you are using a premade template, there are some steps I typically go through to make sure the content fits my needs. 

  • Delete, add & duplicate slide templates that you think will work best for your content
  • Layer & link your content over the top
  • Delete any unwanted text boxes and tables. The design in the background is ‘glued down’ to protect the rights of the original artists
  • If you are worried about the original being shared with students, make a master copy of your edited notebook as a backup.
  • Share your final notebook with your students on the digital platform of your choice
  • If possible, the checklist on the last slide works well printed out. However, this isn’t necessary and can be filled out digitally.

digital-interactive-notebook

Digital Interactive Notebook: How do I assign it? 

There are many ways to share digital interactive notebooks easily with students. Here are some of my go-to ways: 

  • Share the link with students in Google Classroom, Seesaw, Schoology or other platforms your school uses!
  • When posting in Google Classroom, make sure to click ‘Make a Copy for each student’ before posting!

Click here to watch my free, 3 part video series all about Google Classroom. 

  • Create an activity in Seesaw. With Seesaw Plus & For Schools, you can create multi-page activities that work well for digital interactive notebooks.
  • When using PowerPoint, share in Microsoft OneDrive, Microsoft Teams using other Microsoft tools.

digital-interactive-notebook

Digital Interactive Notebook: Are there templates I can use? 

I have created a growing collection of templates that you can edit and use to fit your content needs.

These sides are already organized for: 

  • Before exploration reflection
  • Vocabulary
  • Videos
  • Photograph Observations
  • Graphs & Analysis
  • Individual Articles
  • Paired Selections & Comparison
  • Maps & Noticings
  • Podcasts & Reflection
  • Scientific Process
  • Engineering Design Process
  • Data Analysis based on Observations
  • Labeling an Image
  • Analyzing quotations
  • Digital Creation

digital-interactive-notebook

As a bonus, there are student checklists to help students keep track of their progress for each slide. There are also video tutorials to share with students (or use while you're creating) to help you with Google/PowerPoint creating. 

  • Creating & Editing a Text Box
  • Using the Shape and Line Tools
  • Inserting Your Own Images
  • Inserting Images from Google
  • Adding & Duplicating Slides

Each template includes various digital file types to meet your sharing needs: Google Slides, PowerPoint & Seesaw.

 

All Seesaw files are pre-loaded into activities. Upon purchase, you'll get the share link to copy & edit and add to your Seesaw Activity library, then assign to students. I saved you A LOT of steps!

Grab your favorite template style here from my shop! 

 

Digital Interactive Notebooks: Are there any that are already created for me?

Yes! I also have content specific digital interactive notebooks that have all the resources linked inside for you. Check out my growing collection here! 

 

Other Blog Posts You Might Enjoy: 

Getting Started with Google Classroom: Video Series 

How to Teach Online for Home Learning

digital-interactive-notebook

Have you tried digital interactive notebooks in your classroom? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

Want more resources to support Technology & STEM all year long? Grab this FREE downloadable guide that I’ve put together for you!

Back to School STEM Activities Shopping Guide

back-to-school-stem-activities

Back to School STEM Activities Shopping Guide

This Back to School STEM Activities guide is to help you find resources that will be perfect for your STEM & Technology instruction. Whether you are teaching in-person, hybrid or remotely, I have resources already created to meet your needs. 

 

Back to School STEM Activities Shopping Guide: How to Get the Most Out of It

  • Print this out to read it like a magazine or view digitally
  • The clickable Table of Contents will direct you to a topic you’re interested in learning about more
  • All images are clickable and will take you directly to the product they are show
  • All images also have a corresponding number. Find the corresponding description for that page to read more about it

Click here to grab this FREE download!

 

back-to-school-stem-activities

What's included in this guide?

  • How to use this guide
  • How to get free TpT Credits to Spend on Future Purchases
  • 6 Back to School Essentials for Any Classroom Setting
  • In-Person Learning Resources
  • Google Tools Scavenger Hunts
  • Digital Interactive Notebooks
  • Distance Learning Resources
  • Thank You!
  • Connect with Me!

Click here to grab this FREE download!

 

Other blog posts you will also enjoy: 

back-to-school-stem-activities

 

Need more help finding a resource that fits your Back to School needs? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

Want more resources to support Technology & STEM all year long? Grab this FREE downloadable guide that I’ve put together for you!

creating-a-classroom-website-for-teachers

7 Tips to Creating a Classroom Website for Teachers

7 Tips to Creating a Classroom Website for Teachers

classroom-website-for-teachers

Majority of businesses these days have a website; it’s the digital version of a business card. Think of your classroom the same way by creating a classroom website for teachers that works. 

Building a classroom website that you can actually use is easier than you think. No coding skills are required. In fact, your classroom website should be a working document and something that you (the classroom teacher), the students and their families should be interacting with year round. 

This isn’t a “create in August and never look at it again” kind of thing. Let your website fo the talking and answer questions that you get emailed about the most. 

Classroom Website for Teachers: #1 Let them learn about you

Typically when you hear about a new product, place or service, you head their website and click on the ‘About’ section first. Create an ‘About Me’ section on your classroom website; typically your first page tab. The families of your new students are going to want to do the same thing. They want to know who their kid is spending their time with all day! Share a short typed bio, but also try other mediums as well!

classroom-website-examples

Videos, infographics and listacles can be a fun way to have families connect with their teacher even more. Here is a one page, editable meet the teacher letter template that can help you get started. 

 

#2 Keep all your announcements together

Classroom teachers get A LOT of emails daily and it can be hard to keep track of all the information to relay it effectively to parents. Create the ‘Home’ page of your website as a place to store all of the weekly announcements. 

Send your weekly email out to parents to direct them to your website for the new announcements for the week. This will help families be accustomed to going to your site to answer their questions and have one place to keep track of everything. 

Over the course of the school year, families will be looking to your website first because they know you most likely have the information posted there. In turn, less emails filling up your inbox! 

classroom-website-examples

Classroom Website for Teachers #3 A Hub for your lessons

Make this website work for you. Create a ‘Lessons’ tab where you post videos, presentations & digital materials that go along with your lessons. This will help keep all of your materials in one place as you are teaching. 

This can also help students share the lesson with their families. Also, help families stay connected as to what they are learning in class (and even be an extra homework helper). You will also be grateful for this section on your website when students are absent for a few days or if your principal wants to know what your class is up to for the week. 

 

#4 Get rid of those paper schedules

When I was a classroom teacher, I remember all of the piles of paper I would print for parents to take home the first week. One of those was a schedule, and of course, there would be changes throughout the year. 

In turn, I quickly realized that I didn’t need to print paper schedules for families any more and could easily post it on my website. That way, when changes came up, I could quickly update my website in a couple of minutes. No more waiting at the copier to print 25 schedules that most likely end up in the trash or get lost in backpacks! 

classroom-website-examples

Classroom Website for Teachers #5 No more homework mysteries

It’s important for students to be responsible for knowing what their homework is daily/each week. Having students write down assignments is an important skill. However, what if they left early for the day? What if the bell rang and they couldn’t write down all the information? What if the students left their planner at school? 

There are endless scenarios that can happen. Simplify homework communication by creating a ‘Homework’ tab on your classroom website. Post the assignment and any relevant resources that might help them accomplish the task. Parents WILL THANK YOU! 

When assigning homework, direct students to your website. Depending on the age of your students, let them access the information independently to help them learn how to use a website to gain information. 

classroom-website-examples
Try using Google Classroom as a way to house all your assignments while referring to them on your website.

Google Classroom is also a great place to house all of your assignments. You can refer students to your website for general information, then go to the platform to get all the materials. If you need help with Google Classroom, I have a free, 3 part video series you can access here. 

An additional tip is to think of ways you can make part of your homework digital. An easy way to start is with your weekly reading log. We want to hold students accountable for their reading, but have them respond digitally. Again, less paper everyone has to manage and the end goal is the same. 

 

#6 Provide resources for when you’re not around

When you show the class an awesome video clip for your science lesson or start reading a new read aloud book, often kids want to relay that information back to their families. However, by the end of the day, they might forget what you actually shared with them! 

 

Create a ‘Resource’ tab on your website. Post relevant links, videos, online games and printables for students to access at home. Again, these can be a great homework helper! This will also bring the content to life for families as to what you are teaching all day. 

 

#7 Streamline monthly team newsletters 

If your school requires a monthly team newsletter, or even if you want to start one, this is another great opportunity to utilize your website. Your team is most likely going to type the newsletter anyway, might as well post it on your classroom website. 

Honestly, this may be the least looked at part of your website, but you have it documented and all in one place. What will also be nice is when you create your classroom website the next school year, all of the information will be easily stored in one place. 

classroom-website-for-teachers

Next steps: 

You might be thinking, “Ok Naomi, this all sounds great, but how do I set this up and make sure my website looks nice? Oh, and I don’t want to use a platform that I have to pay for or is super complicated!”

 

Friend, I had the same exact comments when I was a classroom teacher! With trial and error, I figured out a classroom website system that worked for me, my students and their families. 

 

I want YOU to have access to this process to save you hours of time when researching best website practices, and actually get to creating your content. No coding skills are required!

 

I’ll give you step-by-step videos and checklists to guide you through the website creation process. In addition, I’ll also help you create a classroom website for teachers like you that you’ll actually use all year. Long gone are the days of creating a classroom website in August and never looking at it again until the following school year!

 

Ready to get started? Click here to let me help you in your classroom website building!

 

classroom-website-for-teachers

 

Have more questions about creating your classroom website? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

 

Want more resources to support Technology & STEM all year long? Grab this FREE downloadable guide that I’ve put together for you!

best-robots-for-kids

Best Robots for Kids for STEM & Technology Lessons

best-robots-for-kids

When teaching a STEM or technology lesson, what are the best robots for kids? Here is a list of recommendations by a current K-5 STEM teacher that are worth purchasing.

These robots aren’t listed in any particular order. However, all are favorites to use with elementary students. 

 

This post contains affiliate links. When you purchase through the link, no extra cost to you, but I receive a kickback from purchases. 



Best Robots for Kids #1: Bee-Bots

Robot Name: Bee-Bots

Price Range: Prices vary $90/1 Bee-Bot, $600/6 hive of Bee-Bots

Type of Device Based Coding: No device required

Typical Age Range Used with: Kindergarten-2nd grade

Types of batteries: Rechargeable, either on the dock or with a cord

Additional {Optional Attachments}: Command Card Set, Pen Holder Jackets, Clear Card Mat, Math Pre-Printed Mats



Why I recommend them:

Of course, these little guys are ADORABLE! These chunky robots are easy to manipulate and code. They are perfect for any elementary student who is just starting out with coding. 

With Bee-Bots, students can visually see where the robot is headed with the arrow keys. To deepen coding knowledge, students can write the code with the arrow cards that come provided or even write on a whiteboard. 

There are separate mats grids that can be purchased separately. They aren't cheap, but they are very durable as well and you can place any content cards underneath the plastic top to integrate any subject area with your coding. You could try creating your own!best

 

This robot doesn’t require a device to be coded and there aren’t any updates to manage. As a classroom teacher, this is the best starter robot. 

best-robots-for-kids

I have 5 of these robots on deck in my classroom and they have been used by hundreds of students. In Kindergarten, I disguised them as The Very Hungry Caterpillar. Students rolled a dice with the food on it. They then had to code the “caterpillar” to the square that had the matching food. Even after the amount of use my Bee-Bots get, they still work beautifully. 

 

Bee-Bot Additional App

Another added bonus, if you have access to iPads, there is a FREE iOS app that extends the learning with Bee-Bots. Again, this isn’t necessary for use with Bee-Bots

Think of the Bee-Bot robot as the concrete representation of coding & the app is the abstract version. This is great to implement if stations are a part of your teaching; one group can work with the physical robots while another code on the app. You can even have a 3rd station where students use arrow coding cards and code their partner, the human robot. (You can grab this lesson here!)

 

The hardest part I’ve seen with the app is students understanding their left and right directions 

coding-unplugged-activity


Best Robots for Kids #2: Blue-Bot

Robot Name: Blue-Bot

Price Range: Prices Vary $100/1 Blue-Bot, $700/6 Blue-Bot hive

Type of Device Based Coding: No device required and can be programmed with a tablet or computer 

Typical Age Range Used with: Kindergarten-3rd grade

Types of batteries: Rechargeable; either on the dock or with a cord

Additional {Optional Attachments}: Command Card Set, Pen Holder Jackets, Clear Card Mat, Math Pre-Printed Mats

 

Why I recommend them:

This is Bee-Bot's older sibling. If you don’t have either one, Bee-Bot or Blue-Bot, I would recommend spending the extra money and going with Blue-Bot. This robot is the upgraded version and still doesn’t need a device like Bee-Bot. 

 

However, you DO have the option to code with a computer or tablet. Check out their website to see if your classroom devices are compatible. 

What makes them a bit more “extra” is their ability to record sound and interact with other Blue-Bots. They also are clear so students can see the inner workings of the robot and spark their curiosity. 


Best Robots for Kids #3: Dash

Robot Name: Dash

Price Range: 

Type of Device Based Coding: Device required. Can be programmed with a tablet or computer 

Typical Age Range Used with: 2nd -5th grades

Types of batteries: Cord charging

Additional {Optional Attachments}: Sketch Kit, Whiteboard Mat for Sketch Kit,  Launcher, Xylophone, Building Brick Connectors (fits LEGO), Accessory Pack (Bulldozer), Puzzlets, Gripper Building Kit


Why I recommend them:

Again, these robots are super cute and durable as well. The best part is when they get plugged in after sitting uncharged for a while. They start talking your ear off and sound like the little aliens in Toy Story. 

This is a product I definitely believe in. In fact, I am a Wonder League Ambassador (2019-2020, 2020-2021) #wondersquad  Side note: I’m not getting paid to write this post. I just love these little robots so much!

coding-robots-for-elementary-students

This robot has many different apps to challenge students in a variety of ways in  their coding journey. 

 

At the time of this post is written, the apps available are: 

 

Lesson Ideas

If you are looking to host a STEM after school club, this robot is the way to go. You can create your own challenges, or use the challenges presented in the Wonder League Robotics Competition. 

 

This competition is 100% free and your team has the option of uploading videos of completed challenges in action. However, that’s not necessary but having access to the challenges is wonderful. 

When getting started, the Dash & Dot coding challenge cards are wonderful. I used these the first year my students ever used these robots. They are self paced and build off one another. 

 

I only had two sets of cards, but a lot more kids than that! The cards are double sided so I took a picture of the front and back of two cards together. I then inserted all the images into a Google Slide and shared with students through Seesaw.  

 

I had students code in partners; one robot and two iPads. One iPad was for coding the robot. The other iPad was logged into Seesaw where partnerships could swipe through the coding cards and also take video of their robot in action. 

 

As a side note, Seesaw is one of my top favorite apps to use in the regular classroom as well as the STEM classroom. Seesaw is forever free, but you can get an extra month of Seesaw Plus by signing up with my link here. 

coding-robots-for-elementary-students

Accessories

There is a wide variety of accessories that you can grab to enhance your experience with Dash.

If you are looking at cost and what to start with, the bulldozer is the best attachment to start with. Dash can kind-of push items without it, but it can cause other issues. 

Have a 3D printer? Try these 3D print files of some of the accessories. 

Here is another print file for a different bulldozer design. I haven’t tried them out quite yet, but I’m definitely going to print a set and see how it goes!

 

There is also an older sibling of Dash & Dot; Cue. This is for more advanced types of coding that some of your older students may be ready for. Having a couple of these on hand would be a great investment later down the road. 

coding-robots-for-elementary-students

 

Best Robots for Kids #4: Dot

Robot Name: Dot

Price Range: Prices vary $80

Type of Device Based Coding: Device required. Can be programmed with a tablet or computer 

Typical Age Range Used with: Kinder-2nd grades (but can be fun to interact with Dash in the older grades and extra challenges)

Types of batteries: Cord charging

Additional {Optional Attachments}: Dot Creativity Kit

Why I recommend them:

Most common question I get from my students, “Is Dot the head ripped off of Dash?” 

The answer is “No” (with a side of laughing). You CAN take off the stand Dot sits on which makes him into a little ball. 

 

This robot actually doesn’t move around on it’s own, unlike the robots described above. There are a variety of apps also available for Dot, just like Dash. 

 

Dot and Dash can interact with one another, but you don’t need one without the other. If you are trying to decide between the two, go with Dash. There is more you can do with Dash cross-curricular lesson planning. 

 

Interested in learning more about Wonder Workshop? Check out their online trainings, resources and workshops.

coding-robots-for-elementary-students

Lesson Ideas

The coding cards that I mentioned using with Dash when first starting out with Dot is also a good fit. The challenge card sets are for Dot & Dash. They are labeled clearly as to which robot to try the challenge with. 

 

On the Wonder app or in the Creativity Kit there are some fun games that can be played with Dot. These are great for whole group lessons for younger students. This can be a way to introduce different coding elements, a class incentive to earn or an indoor recess game. 

 

Accessories & Apps

There aren’t as many accessories for Dot and most of them are costumes to make it look even cuter. The best accessory is the Building Brick connector which can be used with Dash as well. 

At the time of this post is written, the apps available for Dot are: 

Best Robots for Kids #5: Sphero

Robot Name: Sphero (Sphero Sprk+, Bolt or Mini)

Price Range: Prices Vary, $50-$200/robot

Type of Device Based Coding: Device required. Can be programmed with a tablet or computer 

Typical Age Range Used with: 3rd-5th grades

Types of batteries: Charging Base

Additional {Optional Attachments}: Sphero Mini Activity Kit, Sphero RVR, Turbo Cover, Jump Ramps, Maze Tape, Sphero Mini: Pins & Cones, Chariot

 


Why I recommend them:

Once your students have some coding experience, either with other robots or even coding online with Scratch your students can be successful with Sphero. 

 

There are many different types of Sphero out there. I had the original Sphero first (the white ones) and they stopped charging and connecting to my devices. If you can afford newer ones, go with that option. 

 

There are a few apps to choose from. I found that the Sphero Edu app worked best for a classroom setting and used “real” coding. It can be overwhelming at first for elementary student eyes, but with anything, start slow to go fast! 

coding-robots-for-elementary-students

Lesson Ideas

Inside the Sphero Edu app, there are ideas to try. With my 5th grade students, we went through the Engineering Design Process (EDP) while learning about the Iditarod. Students were posed with the challenge: How can you create a sled that Sphero can pull through the Iditarod race? 

After going through the (EDP) students came up with interesting designs which posed new challenges when coding. This lesson had high engagement and the 5th graders the following year asked if we could be doing “that sled lesson”. 

 

Another lesson I taught in 4th grade with Sphero was snowflakes. Again, another Engineering Design Process challenge where we explored the science and math behind snowflakes. The coding involved a lot of angles and symmetry. 

best-robots-for-kids

Additional Accessories

There are a few accessories to try with Sphero (listed above). However, when getting started with Sphero in the classroom, accessories aren’t necessary. 

One accessories that is worth the investment are pool noodles. These can be used to block off various corners and exits for Sphero. There are moments when there is a bug in the code and Sphero will quickly roll away and hit something. The noodles will keep the robot safe from knicks and impacts.

 

 

Best Robots for Kids #6: Code and Go Mouse

Robot Name: Code and Go Mouse

Price Range: Prices vary, $20/robot

Type of Device Based Coding: No device required

Typical Age Range Used with: Kindergarten-2nd grade

Types of batteries: Consumable batteries. Can use rechargeable kind.

Additional {Optional Attachments}: Activity Set


Why I recommend them:

If you have never tried integrating robotics, have a very limited budget and/or don’t work with a large amount of students during the week, this is a great robot to start with with younger students. 

 

On the flip side, if you are the opposite to the above statements and have a larger budget, Bee-Bots or Blue-Bots are a better investment. They are pretty much the same concept when it comes to its directional coding buttons. 

best-robots-for-kids

I have some Code and Go Mice in my classroom that were purchased prior to my hiring and they don’t get used very often. I have them on hand if there is an odd number of students when using the Bee-Bots. However, the wheels wear out quickly with a higher amount of use. Also, when the battery dies, you’ll need a small screwdriver on hand to take off the panel and replace them. 

 

For my students who want a Bee-Bot at home, I actually recommend to them the Code and Go Mouse. Parents are more willing to spend its inexpensive price (in terms of a robot), and it doesn’t typically get as much use as it would in a classroom. 

Best Robots for Kids #7: LEGO WeDo 2.0

Robot Name: LEGO WeDo 2.0

Price Range: Prices Vary, $200/kit

Type of Device Based Coding: Device required. Can be programmed with a tablet or computer 

Typical Age Range Used with: 2nd-5th grade (If used every year, 4th and 5th might get tired of them)

Types of batteries: Consumable batteries. Can use rechargeable kind.

Additional {Optional Attachments}: Can purchase replacement parts or use other LEGO

 

Why I recommend them:

There is no doubt that most kids love LEGO. This kit is a great combination of building and coding. While the kits are expensive, they are extremely durable and have a familiar feel with kids. Of course, they can be used year after year if the pieces stay organized and separate from your LEGO mixed buckets.

 

If you are a classroom teacher, it would be worthwhile to get 12 sets for your entire grade level to rotate and share. If you are in the STEM or Technology classroom, these kits are HIGHLY recommended and worth the investment 100%.2-3 students working on a kit is the most successful option.

Lesson Ideas

The app comes with a wide variety of lessons and starter builds when working with this kit. With the time I have with students, I’ve done the beginning builds that are offered on the home screen for students. This is a great lesson all about following directions in order, collaboration and fixing mistakes when things don’t work the first time. 

 

The app is designed for students to go through the building directions then adding in the coded elements. As of now, the coding isn’t super complicated and is block coding. 

 

LEGO also has an annual competition that you can register for: First LEGO League Jr. There is the option to sign up to participate in a local competition. Upon registration, there is the option to purchase the WeDo 2.0 kit. These kits don’t need to be returned and are kept by the club leader.

When thinking about classroom supply budgets, this could be a great way to get the kits into your room for future use after hosting the club. 

What I liked about this club is it was all written out for you as a leader and didn’t require extra planning. Make sure you have A LOT of club sessions; the building and collaborating is time consuming. 


Best Robots for Kids #8: Code-a-Pillar

Robot Name: Code-a-Pillar

Price Range: Prices vary, $35-50/robot

Type of Device Based Coding: No device required

Typical Age Range Used with: Pre-school & Kinder

Types of batteries: Consumable batteries. Can use rechargeable kind.

Additional {Optional Attachments}: Expansion Pack

 

Why I recommend them:

When I first walked into my K-5 STEM classroom, I was shocked by the limited amount of resources that were in my room for the younger students. There were Bee-Bots on hand, which is amazing, but I knew my brand-new Kinders needed a different jumping off point with robot coding. I also didn’t want them to tire from the Bee-Bots so quickly either. 

The Code-a-Pillar is very durable and another great concrete example to show what coding is and how it works. If you want to dive deeper in showing students how computers work, this hardware & software lesson was a great success with my younger students. 

Students attach different segments to the Code-a-Pillar’s main body. Once the student presses play on its back, the Code-a Pillar will read through the code and light up each section as it is being played out.

best-robots-for-kids

Other blog posts you might enjoy:

 

Which robots do you already have in your classroom? Which ones do you want to try? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

Want more resources to support Technology & STEM all year long? Grab this FREE downloadable guide that I’ve put together for you!

 

emoji-chrome-extension

How to Use the Emoji Chrome Extension in the Classroom

emoji-chrome-extension

Emojis are a modern day version of hieroglyphics; they visually convey a lot of meaning and emotion. Learn how to use the emoji chrome extension, and bring this tool into the classroom.

Emoji Chrome Extension: Getting Set Up

First, add the extension in your Google Chrome toolbar. Chrome extensions are like little apps that you can use to enhance your experience only when using this web browser. 

There are many emoji extensions out there. Currently, I’ve been enjoying the Joypixels Google Chrome extension. 

Here’s how to get started. Follow the steps below or watch my quick video tutorial. 

  1. Open Google Chrome and login

2. Go to the Chrome Webstore, chrome.google.com

3. Search ‘Joypixels’

4. Click the ‘Add to Chrome’ button

5. Follow the prompts

{Optional} Close out of Chrome & restart computer to ensure extension was added properly with full functionality

Emoji Chrome Extension: Organizing your Google Drive

Google Drives can get messy fairly quickly. However, there are ways to streamline organization and keep it visually appealing and easy to access. Of course you can color code your folders (which you can watch that video tutorial here) 

Why not make your Google Drive organization EVEN BETTER by adding in an emoji in the title? With color and a picture, it will make searching for your go-to files so much easier (and a little more fun!)

Emoji Chrome Extension: Label assignments & directions

Struggling readers and even strong readers love pictures. No matter what reading level someone is, having a visual to match the words increases reading comprehension. 

emoji-chrome-extension

Use emojis when labeling assignments and directions. My favorite places to do this are in Seesaw and Google Classroom. While I love both of these platforms immensely, both streams can get overwhelming quickly. Try and match the emoji to the assignment name and the kids will be even more excited to click on the assignment. 

Curious about Google Classroom but don’t know where to begin? Click here to go through my free 3 part video series and feel more comfortable with this platform. 

Emoji Chrome Extension: Giving student feedback

On the flipside, student feedback can receive some love with some emojis. The emoji Chrome extension is great for this when giving feedback while on the computer. 

Often when I am swiping through student posts on Seesaw while watching The Bachelor, I’ll throw in some emojis to help students pay attention to the comments I am giving them. The emoji keyboard on your phone is also great asset for the classroom! 

 

Emoji Chrome Extension: Student Responses

For most written assignments, I don’t encourage students to use emojis within their work since the goal is to have them write in complete sentences. However, when it comes to quick assignments where I want to know their thoughts on a topic, using an emoji might be more appropriate. 

This is a topic as a classroom teacher you want to be very clear on the boundaries and when emojis are/aren’t ok on certain assignments.

 

emoji-chrome-extension

How have you used emojis in the classroom? What questions do you still have? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

Want more resources to support Technology & STEM all year long? Grab this FREE downloadable guide that I’ve put together for you!

getting-started-with-google-classroom

Getting Started with Google Classroom: Video Series

getting-started-with-google-classroom

Need help getting started with Google Classroom? Look no further and learn with this FREE 3 part mini video series.

This series will cover: 

  • How to Create a Class and Add Students
  • Navigating Google Classroom: Teacher & Student View
  • How to Assign & View Student Work in Google Classroom

Grab a notepad, your comfiest yoga pants, and get ready to learn! 

Getting Started with Google Classroom: How to Create a Class and Add Students

 

This video will cover:

  • How to create a class
  • Two ways to add students while using this platform.

 

Getting Started with Google Classroom: Navigating Google Classroom: Teacher & Student View

Let’s go over the teacher tabs at the top: 

  • Stream
  • Classwork
  • People
  • Gear (settings)

Alternatively, it’s important to see the student view of Google Classroom, which will also be covered in this video.  

 

Getting Started with Google Classroom: Navigating Google Classroom: How to Assign and View Student Work in Google Classroom

Google Classroom has a variety of assignment types: 

  • Assignment
  • Quiz Assignment
  • Question
  • Material
  • Reuse Post
  • *Topic

We'll create an assignment together. We'll then take a look at the student view of assignments and also where to look back on student work later. 

Hungry for more STEM & technology training? Check out my growing list of course offerings to help you navigate STEM & Tech even further. All courses are self paced, affordable & 100% online. 

I also have Google Tools Scavenger Hunts to help students learn the basics of Google Drive, Docs, Forms and Slides. Assignments that are typically created with these tools are easily integrated into Google Classroom. Help your students feel successful when navigating them.

google-tools-scavenger-hunts

Other blog posts you might enjoy: 

 

What types of courses are you hoping to see? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

Want more resources to support Technology & STEM all year long? Grab this FREE downloadable guide that I’ve put together for you!

Getting Started with Stop Motion in the Classroom


Stop Motion is one of the oldest filming techniques and was viewed as magic of its time. Do you remember Gumby or A Year Without a Santa Claus? Both are examples of intricate stop motion.


So why try stop motion with your students?


  • It brings stationary objects & topics to life
  • You only need minimal tools
  • Teaches patience & problem solving


Even when I have done stop motion with my classes, they even think that their own work is magic as well! I even used paper as the only prop for filming. Students had to create a video to teach others about a given topic. Here is my favorite about the human heart. {No sound.} They took over 200 pictures with tiny movements to make this possible. 



Below are some typical questions that I've been asked when getting started with Stop Motion. 

  • What devices & software do you suggest to use with this resource?  
I would start with iPads or an iPhone. However, the same app can be purchased for Mac & Windows. I use the Stop Motion Studio {Free & Paid iOS app}, however, this resource can apply to any other stop motion app that you might already have.
  • What if I only have a few devices in my classroom?  
Limited supplies shouldn’t limit what you can do with kids. This can be a great opportunity to create stations in your classroom. I do this ALL the time with my STEM classes. I teach you a few others ways to make this happen successfully in your room?
  • I teach in a Gen Ed classroom, is Stop Motion for me?
Y.E.S., YES!!! Technology & STEM should not be limited to just in the “specials” class. This can honestly be used across all content areas.

  • Are there ways to differentiate?  
Definitely. Partnerships help with differentiating A LOT! Often times, my students who struggle with regular classroom instruction thrive with using technology. I would encourage the use of pairs to help with typical problem solving issues as well. Again, using guided tech groups are a great way to meet student learning needs. I find that working with students with technology in smaller settings is highly successful. 
  • What is the youngest that you can start stop motion?
I think that you can go as young as kindergarten, depending on the task. With explicit instructions, the use of guided tech groups, you can definitely use this with all ages. I WOULD NOT suggest whole group with really young students. They can sometimes become lost with multiple steps.


Want more inspiration and guidance? Check out my Stop Motion 101 Resource. 



With over 100+ pages of content, I have put together the ins-and-outs of this tech tool from the teacher's side, ways to implement in all content areas, detailed lesson plans, student resources, examples, vocabulary are more! 

Click here to download it for yourself! 

Stay marvelous!

Naomi from Marvelous Ms. Meredith 

stem-supply-list

Must Have STEM School Supply List

stem-school-supply-list

Must Have STEM School Supply List

The best resources to add to your STEM school supply list. 

Perfect for:

  • Teachers wanting to implement STEM in their classroom
  • Materials to add to school redesign of their STEM lab
  • STEM classrooms that need a supply refresh

This list of 20 resources are what I recommend for elementary students. There is a mixture of consumable and non-consumable items to fit your needs. 

stem-lab-supply-list

STEM School Supply List: Consumable Materials

These are my Amazon affiliate links. When you purchase through my link, it's no added cost to you and I get a little kickback in return. Win-win!

Case of Play Doh: Use by itself or integrate with other materials. Great addition to Stop Motion animation (which you can read more in my blog post here)

 

Assorted Chenille stems: Replace once they are too twisted and bent

Masking Tape: Set clear expectations of how much tape can be used during projects or this will run out within a week


Velcro Dots: Perfect for labeling materials and also creating reusable STEM activities

Marbles: Technically, these are reusable. However, I seem to replace these each year as they roll into unseen corners in the classroom.

Felt Squares: These are a great size for little hands and this particular brand is a harder felt which is great for multiple designs.

Neon straws: Any straw works to build with, but neon is way more fun and colorful.

 

When collecting other consumables for your classroom, donations are a great way to get started. Here is an editable makerspace supply letter that can be sent home printed or digitally to families in the community.

makerspace-donation-letter

 

stem-lab-supply-list

STEM School Supply List: Reusable Materials

These are my Amazon affiliate links. When you purchase through my link, it's no added cost to you and I get a little kickback in return. Win-win!

Brain Blox Wooden Planks: A cheaper version of Keva planks and work great for any STEM challenge. Comes with an idea guide that students can refer to during free choice.

Colored Domino Pieces: They don't have dots on them, but this package comes with A LOT! A colorful building material students love.

Colorful Dice: Great for math games & coding challenges

Stackable Storage: organize and sort materials in easy to carry and clear containers

LEGO-like Mini Figs: Add an element of storytelling by adding characters to STEM designs

LEGO-like build plates: The original version can get pricey. These are compatible with real LEGO and helps make some structures more sturdy. They also work great in stop motion animation and green screen

Mixed bucket of LEGO: Of course, asking for donations might get you some as well. This is a great starter kit when on a budget. Add a bucket or two each year to add to the mix.

iPad Tripod: Improve student video quality with a steady camera. This tripod also has adjustable heights and easy to store when not in use.

Bee-Bot Robots: Great for beginning coders and, very durable and rechargeable.

Sphero Mini Robots: Great for more advanced coding and a nice addition when on a budget. You can read more about how I like this robot and others in this blog post.

LEGO WeDo 2.0: A great coding & building addition that is a must have. Multiple lesson ideas are included on the app.

Felt plastic needles: Great and safe for little hands

 

stem-school-supply-list

Other blog posts you might enjoy:

Need more help with your list? Feel free to direct message me on Instagram, @naomimeredith_ and I would love to chat with you!

Want more resources to support Technology & STEM all year long? Grab this FREE downloadable guide that I’ve put together for you!