Brainstorming & Study Aids
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MindMup is a "free, open source, online mind mapping canvas." Think of it as online brainstorming in the form of customized flow chart creation. These mind maps can be created individually or collaboratively. Students and teachers can access data anywhere, from any device, and use the app’s free cloud storage for public mind maps. Users can store private mind maps on Google Drive, with detailed access and sharing control. Users can access all of this without the need to register, have accounts or remember passwords.
The app is user friendly, with toolbars that are similar to Google Docs and Microsoft Office. As best described from the app’s website: “User interface automatically adjusts to touch displays or desktops/laptops systems. On desktops, all map operations have keyboard shortcuts. On mobile devices, toolbars convert to touch menus and buttons become larger. You can hide all the menus and toolbars to get the most out of your screen and we use HTML5 capabilities to enable you to get the most out of your browser. Smart bookmarks allow you to quickly continue where you left off.” Navigate the site for a while and see for yourself! There are a variety of ways that MindMup can be used in the classroom using BYOD across content areas and grade levels. A few options could be: outlining for research, planning for writing assignments, flowcharting for stream of consciousness/brainstorm activities, obtaining input from all group members on a specific collaborative task, etc. Mindmaps on MindMup can be shared, stored, and assessed using Drive. |
MindMeister is an app that allows the user to “quickly and conveniently capture one’s thoughts, ideas, notes, tips, or any other information one wants to save for later.” It is very similar to MindMup. It’s an electronic sketching tool that allows the user to plan ideas or lessons before creating them. The user can then share his ideas and lessons with other people and brainstorm as everyone looks at the screen together and see the changes and additions in real time. It’s a great tool for students to use when they begin to write an essay and their first reaction is “what do I write about?” MindMeister allows them to brainstorm easily, share their ideas with the teacher or other students, get feedback, then add the feedback to their original thoughts and have an electronic graphic organizer with which they can map out their essay.
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Using Trading Cards, students can create cards for any number of categories, including:
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CK-12 is a comprehensive library of elementary, middle and high school math and science concepts. It includes thousands of math and science quizzes. Progress can be tracked as students practice and learn at their own pace. Videos and real-world activities are provided as well as simulations and interactive activities. Assignments can be created and tracked. Content can be shared in Google Classroom.
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Study Ladder is for grades K-6, but could also be used for older students in need of remediation. Teachers can set up their classes and assign students review and practice; it is a great tool for formative assessment, much like Castle Learning. Student progress is easily monitored. Assignments can be differentiated for your students or they can use Study Ladder independently for practice. Students can navigate backwards within a course if work becomes too challenging, or they can move forward if they have mastered a skill. Tutorials and videos are provided to assist in learning concepts. Slideshows, evaluations and tests, and printable resources are also available. Study Ladder is free to teachers; students can access free during school hours with limited homework access of three activities per day after the trial period. Parents can choose to upgrade, but it doesn't appear necessary.
Subjects include art, math, health, language arts, literacy, music, science, reading, and writing. |