Digital Classroom Blog

Do Algorithms Influence Our Lives and Our Democracy?

Do Algorithms Influence Our Lives and Our Democracy? — Fri, 24 Jun 22 12:55:00 -0700

Grades: 8-12

Subjects: Digital Citizenship, Media Literacy, Civics, Social Studies, Computer Science

Algorithms are a foundational building block of our digital world -- they often shape our experiences online in more ways than we realize. On a given day, we might encounter an algorithm that recommends what video we should watch on YouTube, one that filters our search results on Google, and another that determines whether our comment on TikTok gets seen by other people.

In a world filled with more content than we could ever possibly consume, algorithms are a necessary part of the internet. But algorithms can also have unintended consequences, like creating filter bubbles, perpetuating bias, and undermining our creativity, choices, and opportunities.

Use these lesson activities to help your students think critically about algorithms and how they impact our lives, our communities, and even our democracy.

Learning objectives:

Reflect on how algorithmic content can shape our online experiences and what we value. Understand the benefits and drawbacks of various algorithms, including recommendation algorithms, content moderation, and facial recognition. Consider how a platform can use an algorithm to create a more positive online space for its users.

This lesson deep dive has three independent parts. You can string them together, or pull them apart to complement other parts of your curriculum.

Quick Activity: How Much Do Social Media Algorithms Control You? (25 minutes)

Dilemma Discussion: Understanding Algorithms (45 minutes)

Media Creation: Engineering Algorithms (time varies)

Note: All of these lessons are free, but you'll need to sign in (or create an account) to access the printable handouts.

How Much Do Social Media Algorithms Control You?

Prep for teachers:

Estimated activity time: 25 minutes Preview the video How Much Do Social Media Algorithms Control You? Read over the teacher version of the "Algorithms and Me" handout, where you'll find facilitation guidance and the discussion questions. Make copies of the "Algorithms and Me" student handout (or access the Google Docs version from the handout).

Activity steps:

1. Before showing the video, ask: Have you heard of internet or social media algorithms? What do you think an algorithm is?

If your students are already familiar with social media algorithms and what they do, you can follow up by asking them: Do you ever feel like algorithms control the information you see online?

2. Show the video How Much Do Social Media Algorithms Control You? and have students complete the graphic organizer on the "Algorithms and Me" student handout as they watch. Refer to the teacher version of the handout as you guide the class discussion.

Pressing play on the YouTube video will set third-party cookies controlled by Google if you are logged in to Chrome. See Google's cookie information for details.

3. After discussing the video, have students complete the reflection questions in Part 2 of the "Algorithms and Me" student handout and share out as time permits.

Understanding Algorithms

Prep for teachers:

Estimated activity time: 45 minutes This lesson involves students choosing from a list of online resources, which they will use to explore and analyze the lesson topic. Use the teacher version of the "Understanding Algorithms" handout to review the resources beforehand. You may want to suggest that some students use a particular resource over others, and it might also be helpful to view a resource together as a class. Make copies of the "Understanding Algorithms" student handout (or access the Google Docs version from the handout).

Activity steps:

1. Ask: Have you heard of the term "shadowbanned?" What is it? Has it ever happened to you or someone you know?

Invite students to share out. Explain that shadowbanning is when a platform removes or reduces the visibility of content without telling the user. It's an example of a content moderation algorithm in effect.

2. Distribute the "Understanding Algorithms" student handout and explain to students that they'll be exploring some resources in groups to learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of different types of algorithms. Assign each group two of the four resources to explore.

Note: If you haven't already taught the Quick Activity, we recommend first showing the Why Are Conspiracy Theories So Popular? video so students have a better understanding of what an algorithm is.

3. Invite groups to share out, making sure students understand the key points of all four resources. Use the teacher version of the "Understanding Algorithms" handout to help guide the discussion.

4. Direct students to Part 2 of the "Understanding Algorithms" handout. After reading the dilemma as a class, have students work in pairs to respond to the reflection questions before facilitating a class discussion.

For detailed facilitation guidance and suggestions to enrich your class discussion, use the teacher version of the handout.

Engineering Algorithms

Prep for teachers:

Preview and make copies of the project handout: "Engineering Algorithms" Determine the mix of in- and out-of-class time students will need to spend on the assignment, and how students will share their work with the class and/or within their community.

Activity steps:

1. Distribute the "Engineering Algorithms" project handout and read through the directions as a class.

2. Have students use the project planner on page 2 of the handout to brainstorm ideas for written or visual work before creating.

3. Have students share their work with the class or in any forum you find appropriate.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action

Why Are Conspiracy Theories So Appealing?

Why Are Conspiracy Theories So Appealing? — Fri, 24 Jun 22 11:39:00 -0700

Grades: 8-12 Subjects: Digital Citizenship, SEL, Media Literacy, Social Studies, Civics

A 2020 Common Sense research report, Teens and the News, found that a whopping 77% of teens get their news primarily through social media. At the same time that young people are changing their media consumption habits, the United States is going through a period that is marked by an increased distrust in traditional news outlets.

According to the Survey Center on American Life, approximately two-thirds of Americans hold the belief that "you can learn more about what is going on in the world by ignoring mainstream news and doing your own research." This tendency to "do our own research" combined with our reliance on social media to meet our information needs make us susceptible to one of the most influential forces on the internet: conspiracy theories.

Use these lesson activities to help your students think critically about conspiracy theories, why they're often so appealing, and how social media impacts their spread.

Learning objectives:

Understand why conspiracy theories are so appealing and who is benefiting from them. Reflect on the potential impacts of stopping the spread of misinformation and conspiracy theories. Research the purported facts that prop up conspiracy theories and help prevent their viral spread online.

This lesson deep dive has three independent parts. You can string them together, or pull them apart to complement other parts of your curriculum.

Quick Activity: Why Are Conspiracy Theories So Popular? (25 minutes)

Dilemma Discussion: Memes, Mods, and Conspiracies (45 minutes)

Media Creation: Debunking Conspiracy Theories (time varies)

Note: All of these lessons are free, but you'll need to sign in (or create an account) to access the printable handouts.

Why Are Conspiracy Theories So Popular?

Prep for teachers:

Estimated activity time: 25 minutes Preview the video Why Are Conspiracy Theories So Popular? Read over the teacher version of the "Conspiracy Theories 101" handout, where you'll find facilitation guidance and the discussion questions. Make copies of the "Conspiracy Theories 101" student handout (or access the Google Docs version from the handout).

Activity steps:

1. Before showing the video, ask: What's one conspiracy theory you've heard about? Do you think it's true? Why or why not?

If necessary, support students with a quick definition of conspiracy theory (a belief that a group of people have a secret plot to do something) and an example that is appropriate.

2. Show the video Why Are Conspiracy Theories So Popular? and have students complete the graphic organizer on the "Conspiracy Theories 101" handout as they watch. Refer to the teacher version of the handout as you guide the class discussion.

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3. After discussing the video, have students respond to the prompts in Part 2 of the student handout and share out as time permits.

Memes, Mods, and Conspiracies

Prep for teachers:

Estimated activity time: 45 minutes Preview the teacher version of the "Memes, Mods, and Conspiracies" handout for detailed facilitation guidance. Make copies of the "Memes, Mods, and Conspiracies" student handout (or access the Google Docs version from the handout).

Activity steps:

1. Gauge students' understanding of "mods," aka content moderators on online platforms, and ask: How are "mods" responsible for protecting against conspiratorial thinking on online platforms?

Explain that content "mods" are typically volunteers with varying levels of training who review content posted in an online community for safety, privacy, and content concerns. Mods often have the power to delete posts and ban users for violations of the stated community guidelines, including the spread of mis- and disinformation.

Note: If you haven't already taught the Quick Activity, we recommend first showing the Why Are Conspiracy Theories So Popular? video to help students gain a deeper understanding of conspiracy theories.

2. Distribute the "Memes, Mods, and Conspiracies" student handout and explain to students that they'll be using the "Take a Stand" thinking routine as they consider how to respond to conspiracy theories.

"Take a Stand" is a thinking routine that encourages students to explore different perspectives on dilemmas related to community and civic life. Learn more about teaching with dilemmas and thinking routines.

3. After reading the dilemma as a class, facilitate a class discussion following the steps in Part 1. Have students follow along and take notes on their handouts.

For detailed facilitation guidance and suggestions to enrich your class discussion, use the teacher version of the "Memes, Mods, and Conspiracies" handout.

4. In pairs or small groups, have students discuss one or more of the scenarios in Part 2. Then bring the class back together and have each group share out and discuss how their perspectives may have changed.

Debunking Conspiracies

Prep for teachers:

Preview and make copies of the project handout: "Debunking Conspiracy Theories" Determine the mix of in- and out-of-class time students will need to spend on the assignment, and how students will share their work with the class or within their community. This activity requires students to have a strong foundation in finding and analyzing credible sources. Check out our curation of the best resources for teaching and learning about news literacy.

Activity steps: 1. Distribute the "Debunking Conspiracy Theories" project handout and read through the directions as a class.

2. Have students use the project planner on page 2 of the handout to brainstorm ideas for their written or visual work before getting started.

3. Have students share their work with the class or in any forum you find appropriate.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

What Is Cancel Culture, and Does It Change Things for the Better?

What Is Cancel Culture, and Does It Change Things for the Better? — Fri, 24 Jun 22 10:22:00 -0700

Grades: 8-12

Subjects: Digital Citizenship, SEL, Media Literacy, Social Studies

What is cancel culture? A 2021 report from Pew Research Center found that the American public is deeply divided over how to define it. Some people view it as a way to hold a person or group of people accountable for a past misdeed. Others see it as an unfair judgment of someone's character, or even the practice of censoring people whose opinions we don't agree with.

One of the common threads among these varying definitions of "cancel culture" is the idea that it involves someone or something being publicly called out online. In this lesson, you can help students consider where they stand. Is "canceling" someone ever a good way to get a just outcome? Could it sometimes go too far?

Use these lesson activities to help your students think deeply about the impact of cancel culture -- both among peers and directed at people or institutions in power -- and explore positive strategies for resolving conflict and seeking accountability.

Learning objectives:

Define cancel culture and identify the benefits, drawbacks, and impacts of calling people out online. Practice considering all dimensions of a conflict in order to determine the most effective tool or approach for addressing it. Build support of others through positive strategies for conflict resolution, such as "calling in."

This lesson deep dive has three independent parts. You can string them together, or pull them apart to complement other parts of your curriculum.

Quick Activity: Does Canceling Someone Help Them Change? (25 minutes)

Dilemma Discussion: Accidental Activist (45 minutes)

Media Creation: "Call In" and Build Support (time varies)

Note: All of these lessons are free, but you'll need to sign in (or create an account) to access the printable handouts.

Does Canceling Someone Help Them Change?

Prep for teachers:

Estimated activity time: 25 minutes Preview the video "Does Canceling Someone Help Them Change?" Read over the teacher version of the "Call-Out Culture" handout, where you'll find facilitation guidance and the discussion questions. Make copies of the "Call-Out Culture" student handout (or access the Google Docs version from the handout).

Activity steps:

1. Before showing the video, ask: What does it mean to "cancel" someone? What does it look like to "cancel" someone?

Explain that cancel culture is a complex topic that requires us to think critically about who is causing the harm, what their motive is, the degree of harm, and several other factors. This video and discussion focuses on peer-to-peer canceling.

2. Show the video Does Canceling Someone Help Them Change? and have students complete the "Call-Out Culture" handout as they watch. Refer to the teacher version of the handout as you guide the class discussion.

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3. Explain that at the end of the video, Aviva says, "The internet is supposed to be a tool, not a weapon." Ask: What does she mean by that, and how does it relate to conflict resolution and call-out culture?

4. Refer to Part 2 of the "Call-Out Culture" student handout and read aloud the quote by Loretta J. Ross to introduce the concept of "call-in culture." Then have students complete the reflection question and share out as time permits.

Accidental Activist

Prep for teachers:

Estimated activity time: 45 minutes Preview the teacher version of the "Accidental Activist" handout for detailed facilitation guidance. Make copies of the "Accidental Activist" student handout (or access the Google Docs version from the handout).

Activity Steps:

1. Say: "Calling out" people on social media who've done harmful things can be complicated. On one hand, it can be a way of holding someone accountable and stopping them from continuing the harm. But on the other hand, publicly shaming someone in this way often doesn't help them change or learn, and can also shut down the opportunity for open dialogue about the issue. Deciding whether "calling out" is the right or wrong thing to do may depend a lot on the actual circumstances.

If you haven't already taught the Quick Activity with your class, we recommend first showing the video Does Canceling Someone Help Them Change? so students can gain a deeper understanding of the concept of cancel culture.

2. Distribute the "Accidental Activist" student handout and explain to students that they'll be using the "Feelings & Options" thinking routine to consider whether calling out someone or something online is an effective way to seek social change.

"Feelings & Options" is a thinking routine that supports communication, empathy, and thoughtful decision-making for digital dilemmas in social life. Learn more about teaching with dilemmas and thinking routines.

3. After reading the dilemma as a class, have students work in pairs or groups to discuss and complete the questions that follow. Use the teacher version of the "Accidental Activist" handout for detailed facilitation guidance and suggestions for an enriching discussion.

4. With students still in pairs or groups, have them discuss one or more of the scenarios in Part 2 of the handout. Then bring the class back together and have each group share out and discuss how their perspectives may have changed.

Call-In & Build Support

Prep for teachers:

Preview and make copies of the project handout: "Call-In & Build Support" Determine the mix of in- and out-of-class time students will need to spend on the assignment, and how students will share their work with the class and/or within their community. Optional: Explore these resources for additional context, and consider sharing with students. Video: TED Talk – Don't Call People Out, Call Them In Article: Why Scholar Loretta Ross Is 'Calling In' Callout Culture

Activity steps:

1. Distribute the "Call-In & Build Support" project handout and read through the directions as a class. Ensure that students have a good working understanding of "call-in" culture, including what it might look and sound like in practice.

2. Allow students to brainstorm ideas for written or visual work before creating.

3. Share student work with the class or in any forum you find appropriate.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Civics in Digital Life: Lesson Plans for Grades 8-12

Civics in Digital Life: Lesson Plans for Grades 8-12 — Tue, 21 Jun 22 16:25:00 -0700

As the first true group of digital natives, Gen Z has regularly experienced both the challenges and opportunities that media and technology present. They're a unique generation, eager to defy the status quo to drive societal change. With technology at their fingertips and regularly in their hands, they're often more open-minded and eager to advocate for a better world -- both for themselves and for generations to come. But to do so, they'll need the skills and dispositions to use technology in meaningful and effective ways.

With our Civics in Digital Life lessons, you can help your students consider important topics that cut across news and media literacy, digital citizenship, social and emotional learning (SEL), and civics. Designed for upper-middle school and high school students, these learning activities focus on identity development, perspective-taking, and civil discourse, ultimately promoting a deeper sense of civic agency and engagement.

Check out the first set of Civics in Digital Life lessons below.

Civics in Digital Life: Lesson Plans

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New Lessons Coming Soon!

Information & Misinformation

Civil & Uncivil Discourse

Civic Participation Online

Civic Speech & Hate Speech

Online Activism & Self-Care

How to use our Civics in Digital Life lessons in your classroom:

Each lesson deep dive has three independent parts. You can string them together, or teach them independently to complement other parts of your curriculum.

Quick Activity (20 minutes) The quick activity is centered around a topical video and accompanying discussion questions. This is a great way to get the conversation started with your students in a low-stakes, low-prep kind of way!

Dilemma Discussion (45 minutes) The dilemma discussion is a way to go deeper on a topic, acknowledging that digital life is complicated. Through this teacher-guided discussion, students practice self-reflection, active listening, perspective-taking, and civil discourse.

Media Creation (time varies by project) Civic agency is the ultimate goal here. Once students have the knowledge and skills, it's time for them to decide on a course of action that feels positive and productive. Media creation is meant to amplify youth voices and promote civic participation.

Why teaching news and media literacy is important: What the research says

You've seen the headlines: "Most young people today just don't have the media literacy skills to take part in democracy." Based on our report, Teens and the News 2020, only 55% of kids age 10 to 18 felt they could tell if a news story is fake. Moreover, TikTok and YouTube are growing as top news sources for kids, with 77% saying they get news and headlines from social media.

Misinformation and fake news continue to infiltrate online platforms, as have conspiracy theories, which tend to gain popularity during times of crisis -- like during a global pandemic, political crisis, or war. Additionally, as young people spend more of their time online, they're witnessing, and perhaps even participating in, online incivility, as evidenced by the ongoing rise in hate speech, trolling, and cancel culture. Use these lessons to empower students to harness the power of technology to be curious learners, critical thinkers, and engaged citizens.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

News Literacy Lessons to Help Students Understand Election Media

News Literacy Lessons to Help Students Understand Election Media — Mon, 20 Jun 22 17:31:00 -0700

Politics and elections come with a confusing media landscape. But elections, and the media's coverage of them, also offer valuable opportunities for students to learn and practice media literacy skills. Whether it's a presidential election, a midterm election cycle, or a smaller state or local race, students can use these authentic opportunities to engage with election-cycle news.

Use these lessons and activities to help students practice seeking nuanced context for the stories they're seeing in the news and on social media. These free, ready-to-teach lessons will help students apply critical news and media literacy skills on the platforms they use every day.

News Literacy and Elections: Free Lesson Plans for Grades 8-12: Lesson: Is Breaking News Broken on Social Media?

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The internet and social media give us tools to find out what's happening almost instantly -- sometimes even in real time. But how much can we trust the breaking news we see online? Use this lesson plan to help your students consider the unique challenges social media presents to finding credible, accurate information. View the lesson plan.

Lesson: Are Targeted Political Ads Deceiving Voters?

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During an election season, we might take political ads for granted. From roadside billboards and yard signs to wall-to-wall TV and radio commercials, we might be able to tune them out. But can we simply ignore the targeted political ads that show up in our social media feeds? Use this lesson plan to help your students think critically about the impact of targeted advertising on social media -- both during an election season and in general. View the lesson plan.

Lesson: Are Deepfake Videos a Threat to Democracy?

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From Snapchat filters to TikTok productions, teens engage with countless images and videos that have been edited or digitally altered. But are your students aware of -- or have they thought deeply about -- disinformation online, including the phenomenon of deepfake videos? Use this lesson plan to have your students consider questions like: Why are faked images and videos so popular? How might AI or deepfake technology subvert or threaten a democratic election? And perhaps more universally: How does the existence of this new technology change the way we see the world? View the lesson plan.

Lesson: Help Students Think Critically About "October Surprises" and Their Impact on Elections

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While most students aren't yet of voting age, it's still important for them to recognize and analyze news events leading up to elections. One key election-season phenomenon is the "October surprise," a bombshell news and media event that dominates discussion and debate in the last fast-paced weeks -- or days -- before November elections. Teach students how to recognize and analyze this curious election-season phenomenon. View the lesson plan.

Top photo credit: Richard Burger, licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.

News & Media Literacy 101

News & Media Literacy 101 — Wed, 15 Jun 22 17:23:00 -0700

News and Media Literacy begins with the foundational skills and strategies that students need to think critically about the news stories, images, and videos they see online. In our connected world, we encounter new information all the time, and there is no greater power than the ability to filter, discern, and wield that information. Thinking critically means knowing where news stories come from, what purpose they serve, and how credible they are.

To help students build a strong foundation of news and media literacy, use these free, ready-to-teach lessons from our K-12 Digital Citizenship Curriculum. With each lesson, you'll help your students put the news in context, identify bias and misinformation, and apply the critical news and media literacy skills they'll need to become responsible consumers and creators of media.

Note: All of these lessons are free, but in order to get access, you'll need to register on our site or sign in.

Elementary News and Media Literacy Lessons

Let's Give Credit With so much information at their fingertips, help students learn what it means to "give credit" when using content they find online. Taking on the role of a detective, students will learn why it's important to give credit and the right ways to do it when they use words, images, or ideas that belong to others.

Is Seeing Believing? The web is full of photos, and even videos, that are digitally altered. And it's often hard to tell the difference between what's real and what's fake. Help your students ask critical questions about why someone might alter a photo or video in the first place.

A Creator's Rights and Responsibilities It's common for kids to use images they find online for school projects or just for fun. But kids don't often understand which images are OK to use and which ones aren't. Help your students learn about the rights and responsibilities they have when it comes to the images they create and use.

Reading News Online Kids find and read news in lots of different ways. But studies show they're not very good at interpreting what they see. How can we help them get better? Teaching your students about the structure of online news articles is an important place to start.

You Won't Believe This! The internet is full of catchy headlines and outrageous images, all to make us curious and get our attention. But kids don't usually realize: What you click on isn't always what you get. Show your students the best ways to avoid clickbait online.

Middle School News and Media Literacy Lessons

Finding Credible News The web is full of questionable stuff, from rumors and inaccurate information to outright lies and so-called fake news. So how do we help students weed out the bad and find what's credible? Help students dig into why and how false information ends up online in the first place, and then practice evaluating the credibility of what they're finding online.

The Four Factors of Fair Use Kids can be voracious consumers -- and creators -- of media, and it's easier than ever for them to find and share digital content online. But do middle schoolers know about concepts like fair use, copyright, and public domain? Give students a framework they can use to better understand how fair use works in the real world.

This Just In! With mobile phone alerts, social media updates, and 24/7 news cycles, it's hard to escape the daily flood of breaking news. But do kids really understand what they're seeing when stories first break? Help students analyze breaking news with a critical eye for false or incomplete information, and discuss the downsides of our "always-on" news media culture.

High School News and Media Literacy Lessons

Hoaxes and Fakes We know not to believe everything we hear, but what about what we see? Advancements in computer-generated graphics, facial recognition, and video production have led to a world of viral videos that are often difficult to identify as fake. Help your students learn to read what they see on the web "laterally" by showing them how to get off the page, check credibility, and find corroboration.

Challenging Confirmation Bias Our brains are great at using past experiences to make quick decisions on the fly, but these shortcuts can also lead to bias. "Confirmation bias" is our brain's tendency to seek out information that confirms things we already think we know. Help your students learn to recognize this when they encounter news online, as a way to examine competing opinions and ideas and to avoid drawing questionable conclusions.

Clicks for Cash Well-crafted headlines benefit everyone. They help readers digest information and publishers sell news stories. But what if the headline is misleading? What if it's crafted just to get clicks, or even to spread disinformation? "Clickbait" headlines may benefit advertisers and publishers, but they don't benefit readers. Help students recognize and analyze clickbait when they see it.

Filter Bubble Trouble When we get news from our social media feeds, it often tells us only part of the story. Our friends -- and the website's algorithms -- tend to feed us perspectives we already agree with. Show students ways to escape the filter bubble and make sure their ideas about the world are being challenged.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Supporting LGBTQ+ Students in the Classroom and Online

Supporting LGBTQ+ Students in the Classroom and Online — Mon, 06 Jun 22 12:36:00 -0700

For all kids, growing up and discovering your identity is a process littered with complexities: things like shifting friend groups, carefully chosen clothes, loyalty to bands, and painful crushes. It's notoriously messy. And growing up in the digital world brings even more challenges and complexities into the mix. For kids from marginalized groups, these challenges compound exponentially.

Kids who are LGBTQ+ -- or who are quietly questioning their orientation or identity -- often have to navigate the shifting seas of adolescence alone, or in the shadow of overt or potential rejection from the people they love. Stark statistics tell the story:

LGBTQ+ people are nearly four times more likely to be the victims of violent crime. LGBTQ+ teens are almost five times as likely to attempt suicide. And while it's true that we've come a long way in terms of acceptance, it's also a fact that 25% of LGBTQ+ teens say nonaccepting families are the most important challenge in their lives.

That leaves school and online spaces as potential refuges, but only 5% of LGBTQ+ teens report that all teachers and school staff are supportive of LGBTQ+ students, and they experience almost twice the in-person and online bullying as other teens. And for students of color also dealing with other forms of bigotry, the situation can be overwhelming.

Your courage is critical. Know that you may be the only adult in a kid's life who shows acceptance -- their only oasis.

Teaching digital citizenship offers an opportunity to facilitate learning and discussion that can help all kids feel safer and improve school culture. Below, we have some tips about supporting LGBTQ+ students -- who may or may not be out -- and encouraging their peers to be strong allies.

Tips for Teaching Digital Citizenship with LGBTQ+ Students in Mind

First, it's important to be aware that you likely have LGBTQ+ students in your classroom, even if you don't know it. For educators who work in environments that are already striving to extend acceptance to all people and communities, it's a bit easier to go with that flow. But not every school comes with an accepting climate and culture. That's why -- while overall school culture is important -- just one teacher who is overtly, loudly supportive can be a crucial ally for struggling students. Even if this support isn't directed at specific students, it can be enough of a life raft.

The key is to be very clear: Let students know you support them and are there for them. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Be clear about harassment.

For some teachers, speaking out about this may feel uncomfortable, especially if you're the first to bring up the topic in your school. It's also important to be aware of the laws in your state around addressing LGBTQ+ issues, so you can share the facts in a way that work for your situation.

Talk about how there are many groups that are marginalized and harassed online, and include LGBTQ+ people among that list. Remember that you don't have to understand all of the nuances, subcommunities, or terminology around LGBTQ+ issues to broach the topic. Even as a teacher, it's OK to approach the topic from a learning perspective. The bottom line is that no one should be harassed online because of their identity, and we all suffer because of -- and are responsible for addressing -- that harassment. Be aware of differences.

Remember that LGBTQ+ students may be having a different online experience than other students.

For instance, although students have likely already encountered online hate speech directed at the LGBTQ+ community, some online spaces may also feel like a place where they can truly express themselves. Offer support and resources.

For many LGBTQ+ kids, especially when they're figuring things out, finding accepting spaces online can sometimes feel safer. (Also see the "Actively Offer Resources" section below.)

When you discuss interacting with strangers online, emphasize safe practices and awareness, instead of the simplistic, and sometimes unrealistic, message of "never talk to strangers online." Offer students safer online spaces where they might find support, like It Gets Better and the Trevor Project. Promote solidarity with digital citizenship.

Help students who aren't from marginalized communities understand the positive role they can play -- not only because it's the right thing to do, but also because online hate is harmful to everyone.

Teach kids of every age about how they can address cyberbullying by being upstanders online. Digital citizenship lessons like Is It Cyberbullying?, Upstanders and Allies: Taking Action Against Cyberbullying, or The Consequences of Online Hate Speech are a great place to start. Our eighth grade lesson, Responding to Online Hate Speech, equips students with helpful tools they can use to respond. Along with a helpful video, the lesson offers kids a set of helpful strategies: confront those who are bullying; defend the person being targeted; reach out to the person being targeted to see how they're feeling; tell a trusted adult about the situation; raise general awareness about the issue at school or in your community. Our 10th grade lesson, Countering Hate Speech Online, also addresses the issue. Since there are, unfortunately, many types of hate speech, be sure to specifically address anti-LGBTQ+ messages in your discussion. One specific tip for students included in this lesson is to use counterspeech; the slide deck for the lesson has some examples that students can practice. Encourage students to invite marginalized peers into safe spaces, both in person and online. Discuss how having peers stick up for you, both in person and online, can make all the difference in not bearing the burden alone. General Classroom Tips for Supporting LGBTQ+ Students

Be Vocal and Visible

Depending on where you teach -- or your personal beliefs -- this might be easier said than done. Being overt about your support around LGBTQ+ issues could be risky for you, or it could feel like it runs counter to your values. But your courage is critical. Know that you may be the only adult in a kid's life who shows acceptance, their only oasis. So even if you feel unable to say, "I support LGBTQ+ people," make it very clear that your classroom is a refuge by not allowing any form of hate speech or other charged put-downs.

For LGBTQ+ teachers who aren't out, this can pose a special challenge. Up until 2020, it was legal in many places to fire someone simply for being LGBTQ+. Teachers often come under special scrutiny because of their influence with young people. This is why it's even more important for straight, cis-gender teachers to show up as front-line allies and supporters.

Cultivate Safe Spaces

Outside of your own classroom -- the space where you have the most authority -- consider what clubs or groups your school has available for LGBTQ+ students. Are there any counselors or mental health personnel available? Any community spaces? If you're not sure where to start, GLSEN (Gay, Lesbian, and Straight Education Network) has a wealth of information and resources about how to make school a safe place.

Demand Diverse Representation and Fair Policies

It's ideal for students to see themselves represented and included in curriculum content and the school community. In other words, we want to offer both mirrors and windows -- mirrors where students feel represented, and windows through which they can practice empathy and understand difference.

So as you examine your own classroom, school, and community, are there opportunities for kids to see past their own experiences and learn about others? Is there an atmosphere where kids feel safe to share and learn from each other? Do you see representations of all types of students? Are there opportunities for all types of students to connect around shared interests and have fun? Is there anything that might make some students feel excluded?

For instance, school dances that don't allow same-sex couples or dress codes that prohibit students from wearing clothes that match their gender identities are practices and policies that aren't inclusive to LGBTQ+ students. It's possible that there may be teachers, coaches, or other school personnel who do or say things that are harmful to LGBTQ+ people, without consequence. Consider creating a cross-sectional task force to examine and adjust policies or other elements that will make the school a safer place for all.

Actively Offer Resources

Though many students are often savvy enough to seek out information or find community online, they may not always find the safest resources or people. You can make your classroom a place that offers kids ways to get the help they need without having to ask for it. Consider having links to resources on your class website, or a poster in class that lists helpful websites for kids who may feel marginalized, have trouble finding "their people," or are struggling. Sites like It Gets Better, the Trevor Project, and Q Chat Space are great resources for LGBTQ+ students to find help and safe communities. And if you know parents and caregivers who are struggling to support their kids, PFLAG is a great resource to offer.

Here are some more organizations and resources that might be helpful for you, your students, families, and your school community:

Black LGBTQIA+ Migrant Project The Marsha P. Johnson Institute The National Black Justice Coalition National Queer and Trans Therapists of Color Network The Okra Project

How to Find Learning Opportunities in Video Games Kids and Teens Love

How to Find Learning Opportunities in Video Games Kids and Teens Love — Thu, 26 May 22 02:00:00 -0700

Every game has learning potential, from small games made for classrooms to big blockbusters made to be enjoyed at home. Sure, the games made for in-school learning are the easiest to implement (and to convince administrators to buy!); however, they're not always the games that students find the most fun, rewarding, or even educational. Take Minecraft, for instance. It's an absorbing game that's tough for some to put down. It was never designed for classrooms, and yet it just so happens to be, in my opinion, the greatest educational game ever made.

There are tons of games your students already play at home that are packed full of learning potential.

Minecraft isn't alone, either. There are tons of games your students already play at home that are packed full of learning potential. Using these games for learning just requires a slight rethinking of what an "educational game" looks like. This means games that feature less gamification and content drills, and instead have absorbing stories and settings, or compelling simulations and systems. Of course, not all games are school-appropriate, and some are better suited to classroom adaptation than others. That's why we've also hand-picked some games below that lend themselves well to learning. Pair these with our Game Journal worksheet to help connect students' at-home play back to your curriculum.

%%video_embed_1%% Three key tips for game-based learning

Use the games your students already play.

Start with the games your students (or you!) already like playing. Use after-school play as a litmus test for engagement. Consider titles with the potential to drive deep, critical thinking.

Treat games like experiences, not instruction.

Prep just like you would for a field trip or a film screening. Set some context, then explore with your students. Resist the urge to offer instruction too soon; help students reflect and unpack the experience afterward. Even if students stray off course, that's bound to bring opportunities for great learning. Also, don't forget about board games! Find what works best for you.

Use inaccuracies to drive inquiry.

Many games come with inaccuracies, as well as exaggerations or metaphors. Use these to your advantage. As students play, help them see any inaccuracy as a learning opportunity. Have students keep track of what doesn't seem right, then follow up with research comparing the game's point of view with reality. Student handout for connecting at-home play to the classroom

To help capture the learning that happens during play, get students to play more thoughtfully and to jot down their thinking and observations during or after a game. This can work with in-class or after-school play, but it'll also work for at-home play. These notes can then be used as a starting point for discussions and assessments that connect gameplay to classroom content.

One of the most straightforward ways to connect gameplay to content is to have students analyze the characters, plot, mood, settings, and themes of story-based games they're playing at home -- just like they would with a novel. We've put together a Game Journal handout to help, inspired by the work of Edmond Chang.

Popular video games with learning potential for kids

Alba: A Wildlife Adventure

A charming game with an environmental message, Alba is a good option for civics, social and emotional learning (SEL), and a little bit of science learning. Students will learn about the power of community, advocacy, and responsibility when it comes to tackling big issues like climate change.

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild

This sprawling, gorgeous adventure is full of action and discovery that'll test students' problem-solving skills. While the game has a story, it'll pale in comparison to the tales students can tell of spontaneous, non-scripted moments that emerge during play.

Lost Words: Beyond the Page

This moving adventure game about a girl and her grandmother is anchored by a magical journal. The game's puzzles build critical thinking skills, while the story offers valuable lessons about loss and perseverance.

Popular video games with learning potential for teens

Kentucky Route Zero

One of the few games written and realized so well that it stands up with literary fiction, Kentucky Route Zero offers a rich text for students to explore. For teens especially, the moody tone will resonate deeply and invite comparisons with some of their favorite TV shows, movies, and music.

Unpacking

This is one of the most inventive -- and impactful -- narratives of recent years: an entire story told through unpacking and putting things away after a move. It's a great opportunity to discuss with students how games communicate meaning and explore identity in unique ways.

What Remains of Edith Finch

This first-person story is like a magical realist novel come to life. It tells the tale of an eccentric family and their history through a series of dazzling game-based sequences. Each sequence offers a rich opportunity to discuss metaphor and symbolism.

More games to consider

Learning Games That Put Play First

The games on this list -- most of which weren't designed for schools -- offer playful, informal learning experiences that kids and teens find irresistible.

The Most Engaging Games for the Classroom

Great games that'll hook students, plus promote critical thinking and offer opportunities for deep learning.

Games for Building Critical-Thinking Skills

Games that create reflective, independent thinkers.

27 Fun Ways to Celebrate the End of the School Year

27 Fun Ways to Celebrate the End of the School Year — Fri, 20 May 22 02:00:00 -0700

When the pandemic led to worldwide school closures over the past few years, educators, families, and students had to get creative about graduations and year-end celebrations. From local car parades to social media yearbooks and nationally broadcast graduation events, people found ways -- both big and small -- to recognize students' accomplishments and give them a sense of closure.

This year, things are closer to "normal," but we can still be creative in recognizing and celebrating students' accomplishments. Use this list of ideas to help you plan some fun end-of-year activities -- we've included a special section at the end for celebrating the class of 2022. Many of the ideas here play out in the digital world, but we've mixed in some offline options as well.

We hope these activities bring you and your students some much-deserved joy as we close out the 2021–2022 school year.

Post a Flipgrid asking students to share one accomplishment from the year that they're proud of. Make a Flipgrid Mixtape of the responses, and share the video with students and their families.

Create a virtual yearbook using Google Slides or any other presentation tool. Add a student's name and photo on top of the slide and have classmates contribute their favorite qualities and memories about that student. Tip: Use this handy template we created to get started!

Create a word cloud for each student by asking each of their peers to submit one word they would use to describe the student. Streamline the process by sending students a Google Form that lists all students' names, with space where students can type in their one-word response for each student.

Use iMovie or Animoto to stitch together photos from the school year into a video celebrating your students.

Plan a dress-up or themed day (either in person or virtual). Try one of these fun theme ideas: pajamas, superheroes, funny hat, school colors, wacky hair, Disney character, or favorite animal!

Have your students dance along with this GoNoodle video: "Celebrate" from Blazer Fresh.

Make your students a celebratory playlist of favorite songs from the school year. You can also ask your students to create and share their own playlists!

Host a talent show (either in person or virtually) where kids can perform for the class. Use a polling tool to vote on winners for categories like funniest performance, best duo, best costume, best musician, and so on.

Use VoiceThread to create a narrative highlight reel of the year.

Record a podcast, using an app like Anchor, and invite special guests (like teachers or other students).

Collect brief audio or video messages from individual students giving shout-outs or gratitude to others in the class. Compile the messages into a podcast or video and share with students and their families. Consider assigning students a few peers to shout out to, so everyone is included.

Randomly assign students "secret pals" in the class, and have them write a nice anonymous letter to their pal. Collect the letters by email or Google Classroom, and distribute them to the recipients. You could have students reveal the identity of their secret pal on the last day of school.

Send students on a scavenger hunt using GooseChase Edu.

Review the year's key concepts and have fun by hosting a game show during the final days of the school year! Create fun game-like quizzes for students with Kahoot! or Gimkit.

Host a trivia night for students and their families (either in person or virtually). Questions can include fun facts, but can also touch on concepts learned during the year. (Kids love to show their parents what they know.)

Mail handwritten letters or postcards to your students, highlighting their accomplishments and wishing them well.

For the class of 2022

Create an Instagram Class of 2022 Yearbook page for your school, and have students submit photos to be included. Classmates, friends, and family can add congratulations in the comments.

Spotlight seniors on social media channels for their accomplishments (athletes, scholars, special interests and achievements) and use designated hashtags.

Create a special group on Facebook to highlight graduates. Schools can do this for all graduates, and/or parents can create a private group for their child's friends and family.

Create an opportunity for community members to "adopt a senior" and send messages of congratulation and encouragement or care packages.

Get a "famous" alum of the school to record an inspiring video message for graduates.

Create a graduating class message for all, by all. Write an inspiring statement that matches the number of words to the number of students in the graduating class. Then ask each student to shoot a short video of themselves saying the one word assigned to them. (An alternative is to write the word on a poster and hold it up for the camera.) Students won't know the full message, just the word they're assigned. Put the videos together into a single video message and share with the graduating class.

Use school marquees to share a message of encouragement or appreciation for the senior class.

Seniors can collaborate and contribute to a scrapbook about their time together, which the school can keep for their 10-year reunion.

Host virtual (or livestreamed) awards ceremonies. Even while graduations are happening in person, this is still a fun and accessible way for family members near and far to remember and celebrate seniors' accomplishments!

Highlight seniors with a tailgate showcase: Families can line up cars in a parking lot, then seniors sit on the tailgates while others drive by to wish them all well. Or ...

Organize a car parade of graduates through the school parking lot or neighborhood. Families can decorate their cars with the student's name, and graduates can even wear their cap and gown!

Special thanks to Vicki Saylor, who contributed many ideas to this article.

The Best Quiz and Game Show Apps for Classrooms

The Best Quiz and Game Show Apps for Classrooms — Thu, 12 May 22 02:00:00 -0700

While quizzes might not be the most inventive way to learn, they're still useful for memorizing and recalling facts, assessing knowledge, or getting quick info at the end of a lecture or presentation. Because of their utility, there are tons of different apps, websites, and games out there for swiftly creating and delivering everything from quizzes and flash cards to polls and exit tickets. Some lean more into play, allowing teachers to host classroom game shows, while others shift more toward learning, facilitating formative assessments. No matter the focus, we've looked at all the tools out there for quizzing and selected our favorites below.

Our selections

These are the tools we feel best balance everything you'd want in a quizzing tool, while offering high-quality learning opportunities and polished experiences. They're split up into a few key categories that might be your best bet, depending on your needs.

Best Overall: Quizizz

Quizizz has grown thoughtfully over time to be our definitive top choice, whether you're running quick quiz games or looking to craft and launch deeper slide-based lessons with embedded assessments. Notably, it's got a decent-enough free version (with ads) that lets you run basic quizzes with exceptional question variety. However, the paid version (no ads) takes things to the next level with video and audio embeds, asynchronous learning, and answer explanations. This turns Quizizz into a lesson-delivery tool edging closely to platforms like Nearpod.

Read our review of Quizizz.

Other recommendations

These tools also got high marks and are worth a look, depending on your needs.

Best for flashcards and test prep: Quizlet

Quizlet is a polished tool that pretty much does it all. The standout feature is its flash-card-based study tools. If you want to help students prep for tests, there's really nothing better. Students can use study sets that teachers assign, create their own, or use one from the content library powered by providers like Kaplan. These study sets have a mastery option that reinforces concepts as well as other neat customization options.

Read our review of Quizlet.

Best choice for game shows: Kahoot!

Easily one of the more popular tools on this list, Kahoot! defined the quiz game genre. While Kahoot's suite of products has gotten increasingly bloated and confusing, the slick presentation of the quiz experience remains unmatched for K-12 classrooms. For now, it remains for us the go-to option for quick, fun quiz games. They've also added a post-quiz exit ticket that gets students reflecting on their learning and feelings.

Read our review of Kahoot.

Best for formative assessment: Formative

If your focus is on substantive dialogue about learning, then Formative is worth a look. Compared to other tools on this list, it has less flash and dash, but a better feedback loop between students and teachers. We're particularly fond of Formative's live feedback feature, and the creative question types. It's also got the best privacy score of any tool on this list.

Read our review of Formative.

Great for simple polls during presentations: Mentimeter

Mentimeter is a favorite among the staff at Common Sense. We use it regularly to run live polls during our presentations and lectures. It's super simple for both you and your audience to use, and can generate great visual aids like word clouds that can be used during, or even after, presentations. Best of all: You can probably get away with the free version.

Read our review of Mentimeter.

Good option for device-free classrooms: Plickers

A lot of classrooms don't have enough devices to use other tools on this list effectively. Plickers solves this, using printed QR codes that students can raise in the air to answer questions. Teachers then use a device to capture student responses. Unfortunately, this low-tech solution means fewer customization options.

Read our review of Plickers.

See everything we considered

The tools we call out here are a small slice of everything we looked at. If you prefer to do your own evaluation, find every tool we considered below.

These two Top Picks lists feature every tool we think passes muster.

Apps and Websites for Making Flash Cards and Quizzes Top Tech Tools for Formative Assessment

You can also use our site's search to browse our full library of reviews.

Go to search Our criteria

To help organize our evaluation of quizzing tools, we looked at a few key features and functionality.

Question and activity variety Options for homework or individual practice Feedback and reporting Design and engagement Learning approach Customization options Content library Price Platform availability Why trust us?: Our evaluation process

Our team of editors and reviewers (all current or former educators and/or researchers) painstakingly looked at dozens of quizzing, formative assessment, and polling apps for this article and narrowed down 11 of these for deeper evaluation and consideration. Each app goes through a rigorous evaluative process by both a reviewer and an editor. This involves hands-on testing (in some cases, this includes in classrooms or other real-world scenarios), rating according to our research-backed 14-point rubric, communication with developers and other educators, and finally a written review. We also consult our vast library of from-the-field reviews submitted by practicing educators. All told, each app undergoes at minimum four to six hours of testing and evaluation.

More information on our ratings and reviews.

Is there something we missed? You can request a product for review using this form.

Disclosure: Common Sense Education has published content on Kahoot!

Free Activities for Earth Day and Learning About the Environment

Free Activities for Earth Day and Learning About the Environment — Wed, 30 Mar 22 15:08:00 -0700

Although Earth Day originated decades ago, its message has never been more important. But how does this message really trickle down to kids? Often, students wear green or blue, color a picture of the Earth, and maybe learn some basic ways to do their part by recycling, turning off lights, or not wasting water.

While there's value in those activities, concern for Earth's climate and our environment has never been greater. News reports of rising sea levels and climate-related catastrophes are a normal occurrence, making it much more common for kids today to hear terms like "climate change" or "environmental crisis." So, as teachers, it's important to ask ourselves: What does Earth Day mean to -- and for -- our students? How should we address Earth Day in our classrooms?

Earth Day is an opportunity to illustrate why our planet's resources are worth protecting, how much science matters, and the ways we can work together toward a more sustainable future.

It's best to take a balanced approach. We should help kids celebrate the wonder of our planet and build curiosity about its natural marvels, while also acknowledging humans' impact on our climate, and the impacts of our actions. If we only address one piece of the puzzle, we're not giving kids the full picture.

Below you'll find a bevy of free resources that encourage kids to approach Earth Day from both angles. With these, you can help students become curious and creative critical thinkers about Earth's natural wonders, and also confront the climate crisis we all face.

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Help Kids Celebrate Planet Earth with Wonder and Curiosity

Inspire some ooohs, ahhhs, and awwws with these resources highlighting ecosystems, natural wonders, and animals from around the globe.

Join your zany friend Nature Cat and learn about the importance of Earth Day with this fun music video from PBS Kids. (pre-K-K) Amaze kids with information about some of the ways these animals have adapted to their environments, as featured in this Time for Kids article. (K-1) Spring, summer, fall, and winter: Help younger kids learn about the Earth's tilt and why we have different seasons with this PBS LearningMedia resource. (K-2) This PBS Kids Plum Landing interactive lets kids learn about ecosystems and how animals and plants depend on one another in a simple game. (K-2) Find out what the world would look like if it were one village by listening to these stories about the people on our planet -- free on Kanopy (with a library card). (K-2) Peek into your favorite animals' worlds through an Explore.org live cam, or explore the highlight videos and help kids talk through what they see and hear. (K-3) Tune in to one of the daily broadcasts from National Geographic featuring fascinating scientists, explorers, and researchers. Use the associated guide for activity ideas and discussion questions. (K-8) Play! Explore! Create! And discover the wonders of our amazing planet with the fun characters from PBS's Plum Landing. (1-4) Take a trip around the globe using Google Earth and notice that the Earth actually knows its ABCs! Explore different areas that look like letters from outer space. (1-8) Explore some of the most beautiful places in the USA, guided by National Park rangers, with The Hidden Worlds of the National Parks from Google Arts and Culture. (1-12) Have students read this article on forest life from Time for Kids, then share some of the facts they've learned. (3-4) With this YouTube video from Nature Lab, travel to China's Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, home to majestic forests and creatures like the giant panda, towering mountains, and other iconic landscapes. (3-8) See some of the world's most amazing trees—from the biggest to the oldest, and beyond—in this top-notch virtual tour from Google Arts & Culture. (3-8) Take a deeper look at the natural systems that sustain life on Earth and find new ways to participate as positive players in the system with this resource from the Wonderment. (3-12) Journey to Vietnam's Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park with National Geographic and marvel at the stunning Sơn Đoòng, the world's largest natural cave. (3-12) Work through this interactive lesson from NOAA on how scientists use data to better understand El Niño events and how they affect weather. (6-8) From flowers to beehives to your pantry -- learn about the long (and complicated!) process of getting a bottle of honey to your shelf from this YouTube video from PBS. (6-12) Learn how NASA Goddard researcher Lola Fatoyinbo shoots lasers at trees to measure how much carbon is stored by forests in this YouTube video from NOVA. (6-12) See how movements of the Earth's crust can cause earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and change the shapes of continents and oceans in this interactive story map from ArcGIS. (9-12) Explore Climate Science and Inspire Kids to Find Green Steps Forward

Help kids explore the science of climate change, learn about people who are developing creative solutions, and do some of their own hands-on activities. This quote from Jane Goodall can make a fantastic starting point: "You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make."

Show kids how one company came up with an alternative to single-use plastics: the Ooho edible water bottle made of seaweed! (pre-K-12) Learn about recycling and the importance of cleaning up in this short Daniel Tiger video. (pre-K-1) Learn how you can throw a green party by using items around your home to create invitations, party decorations, and more, with this YouTube video from Peacock Kids. (K-2) Check out this building activity from Tinkergarten, use the natural materials around you, and give kids the freedom to design, test, redesign, and build their creations. (pre-K-2) Before everyone recycled, there was a town that had 3,168 tons of garbage and nowhere to put it. What did they do? Listen to this tale from Storyline Online to find out! (pre-K-3) Take the Kids vs. Plastic pledge to get your Planet Protector certificate from National Geographic and find out what you can do to fight trash. (K-3) Practice recycling by sorting items into the correct bins in this activity from National Geographic. (K-3) See the recycling process for paper, from pickup to sorting and baling up the final product, with this video from PBS LearningMedia. (K-3) Watch how the Straus Family Creamery transforms "cow pies" into renewable energy and compost to fertilize pastures using this resource from The Kid Should See This. (K-5) Build a sun-powered oven out of cardboard! When it's sunny, go outside and heat up a treat to celebrate Earth Day. (K-6) Inspire kids with the Roots & Shoots program from the Jane Goodall Institute that has bite-size activities and more comprehensive resources. (K-12) Read about five Kid Heroes for the Planet in this article from Time for Kids. Think about ways they can inspire you to take action, too! (3-4) Can you design and build a sneaker that's environmentally friendly? As you work on this activity from PBS Kids, consider the effects of the materials you're using. (3-8) Find out how you can save the planet's resources for future generations with this resource from Your Plan, Your Planet. (3-8) Where do inventors come up with their great ideas? Find out how mechanical engineer Eben Bayer thought of a compostable alternative to Styrofoam in this YouTube video from NPR. (3-8) Watch how Ocean Sole is cleaning up the ocean by transforming washed-up flip-flops into beautiful sculptures in this YouTube video from BBC What's New. (3-12) Travel to Belize with Marie McGrory to find out how she made it through (almost) the whole trip without single-use plastics in this YouTube video from National Geographic. (3-12) Watch this YouTube video from NPR to learn how green roofs can help the environment by lowering temperatures, reducing energy costs, absorbing stormwater, and supporting the overall ecosystem. (3-12) Use this YouTube video from WWF International to find out how clean, renewable energy can potentially save Earth's climate by drastically lowering emissions and reducing our use of fossil fuels. (6-12) From The Kid Should See This, show students how vegetables aren't only good for our health -- they're also useful for making electricity and biofuel. (6-12) Use actual data from NOAA to better understand how rising sea temperatures are affecting coral reefs, some of the most diverse and important ecosystems on Earth. (6-12) Learn how we all can save our planet one step at a time by working together toward sustainable practices, with this WWF video and article from The Kid Should See This. (6-12) Check out this teen's interview with a climate change expert and learn what young people can actually do about it. (9-12) Find connections between what we grow, eat, and throw away and the impact of climate change with this resource from the Center for Ecoliteracy. (9-12) Create a model of how plastic trash moves in the ocean using an empty two-liter bottle with this resource from the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Extend students' learning by observing gyres on Earth. (9-12) Explore this set of resources from the tech boot camps at UT Austin, which include open-source and GitHub projects. (9-12) Listen to an episode or two of the America Adapts podcast or read some of the resources on their site to get a sense of next steps. (9-12) Watch this overview of how climate change affects public health from the Harvard School of Public Health. Then, read some of the related articles and complete the reflection prompts. (10-12)

Lead and second images courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Screen Time in School: Finding the Right Balance for Your Classroom

Screen Time in School: Finding the Right Balance for Your Classroom — Tue, 08 Mar 22 16:57:00 -0800

Screens and digital media are everywhere, from everyday tech like TVs, phones, and gaming consoles to the laptops, tablets, Chromebooks, and other tech we use in school. Kids of all ages are consuming and producing more digital media than ever before. But is "screen time" actually the best way to describe, or measure, kids' media use?

Of course, not all screen time is created equal. How much screen time we get doesn't account for other factors like when, where, or most importantly what we're watching. Context matters, especially when it comes to classroom learning. Instead of focusing only on screen time, this article will cover how teachers and students can use devices and consume media in more deliberate and mindful ways -- what Common Sense calls "media balance."

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Simply put, media balance means using screens in a way that feels healthy, useful, and proportional. Digital media and technology are increasingly a part of our lives, but it's important that we're conscious of the media choices we're making. It’s also important to remember that things will vary quite a bit from person to person and class to class. There's no one formula that's right for every classroom.

Using Digital Media in Your Teaching

It's a double-edged sword: Students and teachers have more access to digital media than ever before. How can we make informed decisions about what -- and how much -- media we choose for our students during class time? Because so much instruction shifted online during the pandemic, many of us have become overly reliant on screens and digital media.

As a veteran teacher, this school year has been instructive for me. Some of my own classroom media choices have worked out well, like when I’ve used TED-Ed videos to spark students' interest or to review content. But other choices, like posting too many assignments to Google Classroom, have backfired, with glazed-over, disengaged teenage faces staring into their Chromebooks for yet another assignment.

In fact, my tech-free days -- where all activities are completed on paper, and with face-to-face interaction -- have felt especially refreshing and productive. Those "old school" lessons haven’t necessarily been pedagogically groundbreaking, but they've helped restore some balance to the overall learning experience in my classroom. My students even told me how much they appreciated the change of pace, and that they're open to more screen-free days moving forward.

How You Implement Digital Media Matters

Naturally, how much digital media you use in the classroom -- and how you use it -- should depend a lot on the ages of your students and what you're teaching. In general, while younger children shouldn't engage with as much digital media, older students can handle a bit more. Some topics like typing, coding, or computer science will obviously be more dependent on screens. Other activities like reading, for example, could sometimes be done on a screen, though may not offer any benefits. Overall, it's essential to think about whether digital media and technology are enhancing students' learning, or potentially even detracting from it.

Literacy and Digital Media -- Reading on Digital Devices

Whether you teach language arts or any other subject, it's important to consider how reading on a screen (vs. reading on printed paper) may impact students' reading comprehension and literacy development. Most research leans toward the notion that students of all ages tend to comprehend more of what they read when it's on paper, vs. on a screen. However, recent research on the topic suggests that digital books with features that enhance the text could potentially strengthen students' reading comprehension.

So what does this mean for teachers? If you're offering students a text in a digital format, consider the context and ask yourself questions like: What kind of device and platform will students use to access the text? Are distractions just a click away? Does the platform have features to enhance students' comprehension? Does it have accessibility options for a range of learners? Does it offer students personalized recommendations for other high-interest texts, or otherwise enrich kids' reading experience? If not, could reading the text in print actually be more useful? If you do end up going the digital route, be sure to check out this Common Sense article: The Best Digital Library Apps for Students.

As a teacher, you can also consider doing some of your own action research in your classroom: Compare your class's comprehension with print vs. digital texts. Poll your students to see what they prefer. Reflect on your own reading habits and tendencies. If you're like me, you might notice a huge difference between how fast and well you read on a phone or laptop versus a paper magazine or book. Now consider the reading experience of young people who often skim, scan, and toggle between screens all day.

Using the SAMR Model to Make the Most of Classroom Technology

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As teachers today, we have so much digital media and so many digital tools at our disposal. It's never been simpler to share video links, post assignments online, or use Kahoot to give a quiz, among countless other choices. But what's often missing is a deeper consideration of the why and how -- the nuts and bolts of tech integration and instructional planning. Sure, we can incorporate a digital tool, but does that mean it'll be effective for kids' learning?

The SAMR model, developed by Dr. Ruben Puentedura, offers a framework you can use to think critically about how you're integrating digital media and technology in your classroom. The S, A, M, and R stand for Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, and Redefinition. In the video above, you can hear a more detailed explanation from Puentadura himself, but here's a quick breakdown with some hypothetical examples of my own:

Substitution means simply replacing traditional activities and materials with digital versions. For example, suppose I turned my vocab and grammar worksheets into PDFs, posted them on Google Drive, and also asked students to submit the completed worksheets there. In this case, the instruction and students' learning isn’t altered much, since it happens in the same way -- just online.

Augmentation means incorporating interactive digital enhancements and elements to learning content. To extend my vocab and grammar example, say I converted the worksheets into Google Docs. Students could now edit the doc and do the work online. But I could also add links to helpful videos or other resources about comma usage, right in the doc where they're the most beneficial to students. In this case I’ve used technology to augment -- but not change -- the content of the lesson.

With Modification, a digital tool transforms the learning tasks into something more than they were originally. For example, instead of completing the worksheets alone, I might give students a collaborative task, like commenting on a partner's Google Doc with questions, ideas, or suggestions. Or I might even ask students to use a different online discussion tool altogether to create and share their own vocabulary learning strategies -- which they could then share with the class.

In Redefinition, digital tools enable a complete reimagining of the learning activity. My original vocab and grammar worksheet could be transformed to include different or extended learning outcomes. Imagine students connecting with authors online or on social media to chat about their writing process and word choice as part of researching and creating their own vocabulary lists to study.

As you can see, the SAMR model can help us be more mindful and purposeful about how we use digital media and technology. Keep in mind, there's nothing inherently wrong with substitution-level tech -- sometimes it just makes sense, whether for the sake of time or simplicity. But if my curriculum is packed with only substitution-level media and tech integration, then it might be good to question a few things: Is this effective for my students' learning? And could it be detrimental toward supporting healthy media balance in my classroom?

Managing Smartphones in the Classroom

Smartphones are a monumental challenge for teachers and schools. As I've written about elsewhere, the issue is complex. On the one hand, should we use heavy-handed approaches to police all of the distractions and multitasking? Or on the other, is it possible to harness the potential of smartphones as learning tools? Perhaps something in-between? We all have our own opinions on the matter, but one thing's for certain: Smartphones are here to stay, whether we like them or not.

According to a 2019 report from Common Sense Media, 8- to 12-year-olds averaged just under five hours of screen media a day, and teenagers viewed about seven and a half hours daily. The sheer amount of time that young people spend with digital media -- outside of school -- is staggering. This fact alone may impact how teachers and schools develop smartphone policies aimed at helping students find more media balance.

Personally, I've noticed how quickly most students default to using their phones at every possible opportunity. One solution is for teachers to strive to create lessons that are engaging enough so that students can't or won't be tempted to use their phones during class.

On the other hand, teachers might consider helping students become more mindful and learn to self-regulate their attention. This is, of course, easier said than done (and a personal growth area for me as an educator!).

You might have students read reports about increased screen-time usage and discuss what's gained and lost when life is so screen-dependent. Perhaps you could even conduct or design a classroom experiment on the challenges of multitasking, or collectively count the flood of phone notifications. Or teach students about ways to increase productivity and focus using strategies like the Pomodoro technique. And of course, Media Balance and Well-Being is one of the central topics covered in Common Sense's Digital Citizenship Curriculum, which has free lesson plans, videos, and activities for every grade level.

Nevertheless, sometimes I sense that my own classroom media balance is far too skewed toward passive screen use. There's always the option to take a tougher line and just prohibit all phone use during class. But -- while it's not easy -- taking the time to help students build the skills and habits of mind they'll need to independently manage and self-regulate their own media use is well worth the effort.

Helping Families Manage Screen Time at Home

Media balance is probably most important in students' lives outside of school. All of us, including the families in our school communities, are faced with countless media choices every day. Teachers can play an important role in helping families find media balance at home. Here's what you can do as a teacher:

Subscribe to Common Sense's weekly education newsletter. Every newsletter includes tips and resources you can share directly with families, on everything from online safety tips to advice around managing kids' screen time and finding media balance at home.

Encourage families to sign up for Common Sense's free Tech Balance text messaging program.

Families who subscribe get one to two text messages each week with simple and actionable tips on screen time, media picks, learning with technology, support with the home-school connection, and more. Families can text the word "KIDS" for English or "FAMILIA" for Spanish to the number 21555. (Note: Message and data charges from mobile providers may apply.) For a simple way to share this program with parents and caregivers, you can send them to this helpful page: If opened on a desktop, they'll get a QR code. Once they scan it with a phone, it'll automatically open their messages app -- they just have to hit send. If opened from a mobile device, the messages app opens automatically.

Do some of your own family outreach. Encourage media balance as a school community by promoting #DeviceFreeDinner with these short, funny videos. They're a great way for families to spark conversations about media balance, whether at the dinner table or any other time. Common Sense Media's article, How Much Screen Time is OK for My Kid(s)? can also be a helpful resource for families.

Next Steps: Media Balance in Your Classroom

Now that you have a better understanding of media balance, what can you do? As important as media balance is, it's a bit of an abstract concept. Here are some concrete steps you can take to make media balance an integral part of your students' learning:

Have your students pledge to being safe, responsible, and respectful digital learners. Use these customizable contracts to help students commit to being their best selves both online and in person.

For grades K-5, our Digital Learning Pledge helps you set a positive culture of digital citizenship from the beginning of the year. For middle and high school, our Digital Learning Agreement helps you discuss expectations for online communication, privacy and safety, device use, and more.

Bring media balance into your curriculum. Common Sense's free Digital Citizenship Curriculum has Media Balance and Well-Being lessons for every grade level. Feel free to explore them all, but here are a few standout lessons to consider teaching to your class:

How Technology Makes You Feel (Grades K-2): Help younger students learn to listen to their feelings during (and after) using media. Plus, give them tips on what to do when media doesn't give them a good feeling. My Media Choices (Grades 3-5): Have students start to think about the media choices they're making, and the impacts of those choices. Students will be able to develop their own definition of what "healthy" media balance looks like. Digital Media and Your Brain (Grades 6-8): Ask your middle schoolers to consider how digital media might make some people feel "addicted," then have them consider how they can develop healthy habits for themselves when it comes to digital media use. The Health Effects of Screen Time (Grades 9-12): Have high schoolers dig into some of the research around media use, then reflect on their own experiences around screen time and media use.

Reinforce Media Balance at Home. Share these helpful guides for families to keep everyone informed and on the same page. You can customize these templates to best suit your needs.

In-Person Learning Daily Routines (Google Doc): Use this customizable schedule to outline daily learning schedules, give families important information, and check in with how students are feeling each day. Available in Spanish and English. Dinner Discussion (Google Doc): Help parents and caregivers stay informed about their students' progress with these helpful conversation starters. Devices for Learning: A Guide for Families (Google Doc): Customize and share this handy guide to make sure families have all of the information they need about any school-issued devices that students might bring home.

Lead and second image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Free Learning Resources for Black History Month (And Beyond)

Free Learning Resources for Black History Month (And Beyond) — Fri, 28 Jan 22 12:56:00 -0800

The inclusion of Black history and culture is essential for an accurate and true representation of American (and world) history overall. Black History Month is a time to highlight the people who have not only created foundational innovations, art, and achievements, but also organized and protested for equal rights and freedoms.

Of course, the civil rights movement and figures like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, and Rosa Parks are integral pieces of this history. But there are lesser-known -- and incredibly impactful -- people and contributions that illustrate an even greater breadth and depth of Black history and culture.

Below you'll find resources -- including videos, texts, lessons, podcasts, and more -- about activists, art and culture, inventors, engineers, historical events, and beyond. And to extend your search even further, don't miss the list of broader collections found at the bottom of this article. Every resource we've curated here has a suggested grade band, but many are flexible and adaptable to just about any age group. Consider the possibilities for how you might integrate these resources into your instruction (or use them at home!) during Black History Month or any time of the year!

Consider a variety of ways to use these resources in your classroom: Have kids peruse this list and find what interests them the most, then use a jigsaw or flipped-classroom approach to help them share their findings. Choose several exhibits or resources about art or music that students can respond to, before and after getting some context. Have students pick lesser-known Black/Afro-Latino figures to research further and share about. Curate your own collection from these and other resources to always have available for kids to explore. Challenge students to find and research even more Black inventors and engineers. Highlight some of the most pivotal and essential contributions from Black figures that students might not have known about. Compare and contrast different movements and activists in terms of their messages, methods, and momentum. Ask students to choose a historical figure whom they look up to the most, or find most inspirational, then write about why.

A reminder for teachers: Navigate stories and images of oppression and violence with care. Black history is a complicated mix of both triumph and tribulations. While Black history doesn't begin or end with slavery or the injustices of racism, these harsh realities are part of it. Keep in mind your students' abilities when it comes to processing what they're reading, seeing, and listening to, and be aware that triggering topics can sometimes be more traumatic for Black and Brown kids.

Black History Resources: Places and Events

Find out what kids already know about events and places connected to Black history, and then go on a journey to discover even more with these articles and videos.

Let this mother-daughter team, the hosts of Kids Black History on YouTube, teach some facts about Africa in a video that's sure to make you smile. (Grades pre-K-1) Read about the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom in 1963 and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s famous "I Have a Dream" speech in this piece by Time for Kids. (Grades 3-5) Travel back to the late 16th century with the Heroes of Color channel on YouTube to learn about Gaspar Yanga and one of the earliest rebellions of enslaved people in the Americas. Or learn about the heroic achievements of the 369th Infantry Regiment, an all-Black unit that fought for the U.S. during World Wars I and II. (Grades 3-12) Via Crash Course on YouTube, delve into the extraordinary and inspiring history of the Haitian revolution, which saw enslaved people liberate themselves, overthrow colonial rule, and create their own country. (Grades 6-12) View rare film footage of daily work, play, school celebrations, gatherings, and sporting events in the all-Black towns of 1920s Oklahoma, from National Geographic's YouTube channel. (Grades 6-12) Read this Atlas Obscura article to learn the story of the mythical 16th-century Black queen Calafia, for whom California is named. (Grades 9-12) Black History Resources: Activism

Working toward equal rights is a critical part of Black history. While it's important to acknowledge the most prominent and familiar figures, the resources below also elevate those who might be lesser-known, helping add depth and breadth to students' learning about the civil rights movement and beyond.

Learn about Wangari Maathai's environmental and political activism, which resulted in a Nobel Prize -- the first for an African woman -- with this article from Britannica Kids (Grades 3-5), in this article about her life story on the Wangari Maathai Foundation's website (Grades 6-8), or with this lesson plan from the My Hero website (Grades 6-12). Use this video from the YouTube channel Black History in Two Minutes to teach students about Shirley Chisholm, the first Black congresswoman and a champion for civil rights. (Grades 5-12) Learn about the life of activist Marsha P. Johnson, who helped spark the Pride movement and a fight for LGBTQ+ rights that continues today. Use this lesson from PBS LearningMedia as-is, or adapt it to fit your needs. (Grades 6-12) Visit this online exhibition from the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History to read about Frederick Douglass and see images of some of his handwritten documents. (Grades 6-12) Watch this video from NBC News Learn's YouTube channel to follow the extraordinary and complex life of Marcus Garvey, whose vision of a pan-African movement continues to influence Black thinkers and culture today. (Grades 6-12) Dig deeper into some lesser-known history of the Black Panthers with this YouTube video from AJ+, and discover their history of community outreach and health care support, grounded in compassion and self-reliance. (Grades 6-12) Use this collection of videos from NBC News to augment what kids might already know about MLK's legacy and movement. (Grades 9-12) Teach this lesson from PBS LearningMedia about the accomplishments of civil rights activist, lawyer, author, and priest Pauli Murray, who stood against the many forms of injustice. (Grades 9-12) Watch a short video from TEDEd about civil rights activist Rosa Parks that digs into some information kids might not already know. Then use some of the comprehension questions or additional resources to extend students' learning. (Grades 9-12) Watch Flocabulary's introduction to John Lewis' life, activism, and influence on generations of others, featuring lyrics written by a ninth grader. Afterward, have students choose an event mentioned in the video and research it further. (Grades 9-12) From 60 Minutes, watch this famous exchange between MLK and journalist Mike Wallace. Ask students: What does King mean by "riots are the language of the unheard"? (Grades 9-12) Honor the bravery of Elizabeth Jennings by reading this Atlas Obscura narrative about her historic stand against segregation in 19th-century New York, long before the famous bus boycott in 1955. (Grades 9-12) Watch this video about Jesse Owens and the 1936 Olympics. Then use the discussion questions and worksheet to consider the role of protest in sports today. (Grades 9-12) Using this Retro Report video and text, learn about how Black women have had to fight to win and maintain their voting rights (Grades 9-12) Read Malcolm X's famous "The Ballot or the Bullet" speech and this Teen Vogue article reflecting on its legacy. (Grades 11-12) Black History Resources: Arts and Culture

This curation features music, visual art, dance, and literature from throughout Black history, and the artists who bring it all to life.

Watch this YouTube video from Nickelodeon to find out how Suzan-Lori Parks became the first African American woman to win the Pulitzer Prize for writing dramatic plays. (Grades pre-K-2) Follow along with this YouTube video and use your body to play the Hambone -- an African drumming technique with historical significance. (Grades pre-K-2) Listen along as James Earl Jones reads "To Be a Drum," a story of rhythm, history, and freedom. (Grades 1-3) Using this lesson (via Google Slides) from the New York Historical Society, delve into the extraordinary life, achievements, and art of sculptor and gallerist Augusta Savage, who was a key part of the Harlem Renaissance. (Grades 3-5) Listen to this episode from The Past and the Curious podcast about blues and folk musician Elizabeth Cotten, whose catchy songs traveled all over the world and even influenced the Beatles. (Grades 3-5) Journey into the world of Latin American music with this podcast episode (via YouTube) from Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls and learn about the life of Celia Cruz, the Cuban Afro-Latina singer known as the Queen of Salsa. (Grades 3-5) Explore the influential history of African drumming using this video from the Kennedy Center, and try out some of the key techniques. Feel free to also click through and watch the other videos. (Grades 3-8) Practice some simple and fun moves from traditional West African dance as you watch this YouTube video from the Lincoln Center. (Grades 3-8) Through this Smithsonian video and article, get a feel for the sounds and movements, and a sense of the rich history, behind Afro-Peruvian music, a unique result of the African diaspora. (Grades 3-8) Sit down with jazz musician Robert Glasper, featured in this YouTube video from Jazz Night in America, as he shows the jazz origins of famous hip-hop samples and tracks. (Grades 3-12) Learn more about the extensive influence of the blues and its roots in Black history from this YouTube video by PBS's Sound Field. (Grades 6-12) Learn more about the history behind trap music, a ubiquitous, influential music genre, in this lesson from PBS LearningMedia. (Grades 6-12) Join two art historians in this YouTube video from Khan Academy as they discuss this important series of paintings about African Americans migrating north in search of work and new lives. (Grades 6-12) Share this article from History.com, or this one from the Washington Post, to help students discover the amazing story of Bass Reeves, one of the first Black U.S. marshals west of the Mississippi, and probable inspiration for the American pop-culture icon the Lone Ranger. (Grades 6-12) Read this article from Smithsonian Magazine on the history of African American Cowboys, then have students compare this with how cowboys are portrayed in Hollywood and other pop-culture entertainment. (Grades 6-12) Watch this video from Flocabulary to examine Langston Hughes' most famous poem and his use of figurative language. Then have students write their own "Harlem"-inspired poem. (Grades 6-10) Using this video from PBS, explore the origins, traditions, and influence of gospel music, created and celebrated weekly in Black churches across the country. (Grades 6-12) See how Mexican people with African ancestry reconnect with their roots through dance and performance in this YouTube video from AJ+. (Grades 6-12) Be moved by the 400-year-old history of bomba, a style of music and dance created by enslaved people who resisted colonial culture, in this YouTube video from PBS. (Grades 6-12) Check out this video and article from Unladylike2020 to learn about the talented opera singer Sissieretta Jones, the first African American woman to headline at Carnegie Hall. Warning: Contains graphic content. While you're there, learn about Meta Warrick Fuller, the first African American woman recipient of a federal art commission, who was nicknamed "the sculptor of horrors" for her dark, expressive creations. Or discover the singular life and style of Gladys Bentley, a Harlem Renaissance artist whose bold performances challenged gender roles and norms. (Grades 9-12) Use this animated video from TEDEd as an introduction to James Baldwin, the influential writer who was stalked by the FBI for championing civil rights and social justice. (Grades 9-12) Use this PBS LearningMedia lesson to learn about the life of Alain Locke, a gay philosopher whose work set the stage for the Harlem Renaissance. (Grades 9-12) Watch Chris Rock's documentary Good Hair (free on Kanopy), which explores the societal and cultural ideas behind Black people's hair. (Grades 9-12) Join hip-hop artist Nas via Poetry in America as he discusses his song "N.Y. State of Mind" and considers hip-hop’s place in the poetic canon. Note: Includes mature content. (Grades 9-12) Discover the origins of breakdancing and learn about its far-reaching influence in this short documentary-style video from Vox. (Grades 9-12) From Art21, step into the world of Kevin Beasley's art through this YouTube video, which explores his historical inspiration and reckons with the brutal legacy of slavery. Or experience the stunning and provocative contemporary art and performance of Abigail DeVille, whose work takes a critical look at history. (Grades 11-12) Black History Resources: STEM Topics

Learn the amazing accomplishments of these scientists, engineers, mathematicians, and inventors who made an indelible imprint on history and society.

Learn about the first Black pilots in this YouTube video from Sesame Studios. What would it be like to build and fly your own plane? (Grades pre-K-2) Find out about the inventor of the modern traffic light and what else he created in this YouTube video from Kids Black History. (Grades pre-K-2) Check out Craig Thompson's alphabet of amazing Black inventors to revisit some who are familiar and discover others you didn't know. (Grades pre-K-2) This YouTube video from Nickelodeon highlights the brilliant and driven Alexa Canady, the first Black woman to become a neurosurgeon in 1981. (Grades pre-K-2) Find out about the African American inventor Lewis Latimer, who contributed to the creation of the light bulb, telephone, and more in this YouTube video from the Fab Lab (Grades 1-5). Check out this video and article on Dorothy Vaughan, the supervisor of a group of boundary-breaking African American women whose calculations got astronauts into space. (Grades 1-5) From NASA, you can find out about Katherine Johnson, another of the mathematicians whose calculations got us to the moon and back. (Grades 1-5) Let Flocabulary introduce George Washington Carver's life, the challenges he faced, and his accomplishments as an inventor and innovator. Then, ask students to consider how his ideas changed life for us all today. (Grades 3-8) From The Kid Should See This, learn about science educator and graduate student Adania Flemming, who studies marine life at the University of Florida. Or discover the trailblazing accomplishments of Matthew Henson, who broke boundaries as an Arctic explorer and African American. (Grades 3-8) Read this article from IGN about inventor and engineer Jerry Lawson, who developed the first interchangeable, cartridge-based video game system -- before Atari and Nintendo! (Grades 9-12) More Black History Resources and Collections

If you want a source that houses a treasure trove of resources, look no further! And if you want something that touches on topics not addressed above, check out these other possibilities.

Listen as the kids from Global Citizen share what they know about Black history. (Grades 1-5) Learn how Afro-Latino baseball Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente changed hearts and minds during the civil rights movement. Use the included PBS LearningMedia student guide for supplemental activities. (Grades 5-8) Read one of the many thought-provoking stories on the National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) website, and then dig into the associated collections of artifacts. (Grades 6-12) Get lost in this gold mine of in-depth and highly accessible video interviews and biographies of notable African American people on the History Makers website. (Grades 3-12) Browse, select, and read from this great collection of nonfiction and fiction texts written by Black writers, artists, and activists on CommonLit. (Grades 3-12) Find out about the accomplishments of eight extraordinary Afro-Latino people. From artists to activists, each person contributed to the legacy of the African diaspora. (Grades 9-12) Use this site from American Ancestors and the GU272 Memory Project to research and learn about the enslaved people who were sold to raise money to build Georgetown University, and hear their ancestors' stories as well. (Grades 9-12)

Images courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action, and iStock.

Offline and Off-Screen Activities for Minds-On Learning

Offline and Off-Screen Activities for Minds-On Learning — Thu, 20 Jan 22 10:22:00 -0800

If there's one thing we can be sure of, it's that kids use screens -- a lot. And while there's a lot of debate about how much is too much, research seems to suggest two things: The quality of the content and activities that kids access on screens makes a difference, and finding balance with offscreen activities is important.

Striking that balance can be tricky, especially when schoolwork requires a screen and games and social media are so compelling. But we've collected some cool resources -- some with links and some without -- that can help you tap into kids' curiosity, problem-solving, self-reflection, and more.

We've grouped the activities into the categories below and then labeled them with the most applicable grade band(s). Of course, you could easily adapt some of these activities to work with other grades -- we've marked these with an asterisk (*). Use these links to jump to any section below:

Get Kids Creating Get Kids Listening Get Kids Moving Help Kids Reflect Help Kids Give Back

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Offline and Off-Screen Activities to Get Kids Creating

Getting students to flex their maker muscles is great, whether you're on or offline, but creating in a more tangible way can be satisfying and instructive for different reasons. Some of these activities are very prescriptive, and others are deliberately open-ended, so shape them around your kids or subject matter to make them work for your home or classroom.

Grades Pre-K-2 Make some thank-you cards! Though it's great for kids of all ages to express their gratitude, this activity from PBSKids is geared toward little ones. Talk about gratitude and why it's important to express it. Gather some empty cardboard rolls, dip the ends in paint, and stamp some circles. Now press or fold the rolls. Talk about how the shapes change. Color and cut out snowflakes, flowers, leaves, and more to decorate your windows to show the season or a holiday. Not only will the results brighten your home or classroom, but it's also a way to explore seasons. Use things from around the house or classroom as musical instruments and compose a song, or just jam! Kids can experiment with the sounds the objects make and talk about why different shapes and materials might make varied noises. Then practice listening to make music all together. Though this set of activities from PBS is framed as a "Summer Activity Book," kids can do them anytime. And there are plenty of opportunities to use their imaginations and creativity. Carve a pumpkin and use this messy Halloween tradition to do some basic math. While you're scooping pumpkin guts, count seeds individually or by groups of five or 10. *Wrap black paper over one end of a paper towel roll and secure it with a rubber band. Poke holes in a pattern to create a constellation! Little kids can poke at random, but older kids could try to recreate real constellations or make ones of their own after learning about existing ones. *Use this activity featuring Matisse cutouts to teach kids about the artist and have fun emulating his style. For little kids, it's a great opportunity to practice with scissors and talk about shapes and colors. For older kids, they can experiment with geometry and try to create something out of shapes. Grades 3-5 Draw a picture on a piece of paper and glue it to a piece of cardboard. Cut it into puzzle pieces and challenge a family member or classmate to put it together. If you're creating in the classroom, specify the number of pieces to even the playing field, and if cutting cardboard is too difficult, try card stock. Make the picture relate to something you're learning! Grab some cardboard and any art supplies you have to build a playable arcade-style game for your family or classmates. Think Skee-Ball made out of boxes! If in the classroom, kids can work in groups to brainstorm, plan, design, and create the game. Make sure to have them reflect so they can think about how they worked together and solved problems. Try folding paper into airplanes without a model. Then look up different techniques. Which ones fly the farthest? Why? Talk about the physics involved. Use this activity from 826 National to get creative with traditional recipes and transform them into poetic creations. Create a set of picture cards that show every step of a task, similar to how a computer works. For example, what steps do you take to brush your teeth? Then have someone else follow those steps. Aside from reading and following directions, it's a great way to practice executive functioning skills. *Design a dream home! Kids can use measurement, geometry, perspective, and more to draft a floor plan of their dream home. Older kids can design a more complicated layout and or design a home for a book character. *Have kids make a Who I Am collage that illustrates their interests, values, and backgrounds. There's a 45-minute video available that walks you through the whole activity, but you don't need to watch the whole thing: The actual instructions start at minute 22, and you can explain the steps to kids if that's easier. Older kids could definitely do a more sophisticated version of this activity. Grades 6-8 *Design a mini-exhibit using objects from home or the classroom, inspired by this video from the Smithsonian. The idea is to decide on a theme and curate mindfully and with purpose. For the classroom, you can have kids create an exhibit around a concept you're exploring, too. *Make a zine -- a mini-magazine -- using just one piece of paper! Follow the instructions in the video, and choose an idea to capture in this format. Teachers can even use this activity as a formative assessment. *Have kids create (or write) something that represents their background and culture. Kids can interview family members for extra help with details and perspectives. This is a great way to help kids share and appreciate diversity in the classroom. *Have kids illustrate a map of their block or neighborhood. Mark things they'd want to show a visitor and spots that are important to your family. Not only is this a great activity for mapmaking skills and cardinal directions, but it also reinforces community touchstones and landmarks that students might share. Grades 9-12 Conduct a carefully planned interview with guidance -- and tools -- from Storycorps. Teens can take the opportunity to talk to an elder in their family or community while using some writing, communication, and technical skills along the way. Create a playlist to reflect a book, character, or historical event. Write the list of songs and explain how each one is significant. Make a plan to tackle a community cause. Get together with a group to identify a problem or need in the school or community, create a plan, and put it into action. This would also be a great project-based learning challenge. *Pick a friend or family member and write them a letter the old-fashioned way. Invest some time in connecting with someone by writing something more extensive than a text message. Teens can even start a pen pal program at school with a local retirement community. Offline and Off-Screen Activities that Get Kids Listening

Since active listening is such an important skill, these resources can help kids practice. And though just listening in a classroom can make kids unsure of what to do or where to look, having them close their eyes or take guided notes can be really powerful, especially if you build in some metacognition around the process. Of course, some of these activities do require a device, but they are still screen-free! And while there are a ton of podcasts out there, we've tried to highlight some apps, shows, and episodes you may not have heard of. Of course, if you're in class, make sure kids who are deaf or hard of hearing can participate, too.

Grades Pre-K-2 Use stories for calm transitions by listening to Sparkle Stories (free trial). Try a podcast like Wow in the World to get kids thinking and talking about different science concepts. They're presented in a fun -- and often silly -- way that will keep kids engaged. Practice mindfulness and positivity with Like You, a podcast for kids about emotions, self-esteem, deep breathing, and more. Base some listening around daily routines with the Kinderling Kids Radio app! There's also plenty of fun audio content for the classroom that involves science, global exploration, and mindfulness (free trial). Give kids an instruction and have them follow it. Then give them two in a row. Then give them three, and so on. See how many they can remember just by listening. Take kids on a silent walk -- outside or around the school -- and have them just listen. Then talk about all of the things they heard. *Try the Kids Listen app to see if it's a good fit for your family or classroom. There's a subscription to unlock all of the content, but it's free to try and full of great podcasts for kids so you don't have to hunt around! *Pinna is another app to try for curated kid's audio content, and it has a free trial, too! Grades 3-5 Get kids up and moving while they're listening with GoGoGames! Audio Adventures, which feature interactive stories that get kids active. Teachers should preview to make sure the instructions aren't too home-specific. Free to try. Create playlists with Leela Kids, which has audio content for broad age appeal. Also subscription-based. Dig in to specific episodes of The Past and the Curious, featured in Kids Listen. Kids will hear about Elizabeth Cotten and her song that was eventually played by the Beatles. Check out SoundCloud for more content, like the story of Hazel Scott, a musical prodigy, which is a part of the Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls series. Dive into free audio books on iTunes, like the classic The Wonderful Wizard of Oz. After listening to the book, watch the movie and compare! Make math mysterious with Detective Mathema's Maths Puzzles for Kids. Listen to these short episodes to get kids solving these audio word problems. *Select some pieces of music that are each very different from one another, and then have kids draw or write something in response. It's one way to have them practice figurative language as well. Grades 6-8 Look to Flyest Fables for interesting stories that aren't afraid to deal with topics that work for tweens and young teens. They range from 10 to 25 minutes, so they could be great for a short drive or a Friday writing prompt. Discuss current events after listening to the Listenwise News Bites podcast. With episodes about 10 minutes long, they're manageable for making dinner or as lesson starters. *Take a deep dive into the dictionary with The Good Words Podcast, which could be a cool way to spur further word study at home or in the classroom. *Listen to the short episodes of Math Dude to introduce different concepts or even introduce demonstrations you can do in class or at home. *Practice active listening by asking kids to interview each other or a family member. You can provide questions or have them develop their own. They can make notes, ask follow-up questions, and then present what they learned. Grades 9-12 Use the varied topics of Part-Time Genius to kick off a science or history lesson, or spark curiosity about a project. The podcast covers a lot of ground, so you're bound to find something that works for your kid or class. Examine what the consequences of internet algorithms can be through this real-life example as presented by the Rabbit Hole podcast from the New York Times. It could be a great way to open a discussion or start a project. Offer up some tidbits of weird information with the Atlas Obscura podcast, which goes all around the world, capturing deep-cut, fascinating facts. Listen to authors read their own work in Spanish courtesy of the Library of Congress. Enjoy Shakespeare with these readings from the Folger Shakespeare site. It's a great way to supplement reading so you can hear actors speak the lines. Create a list of sentences that change their meaning when words are emphasized differently. You can read them, or kids can read them in pairs, using emphasis to alter the intention. You can use this activity to discuss tone and mood. Offline and Off-Screen Activities to Get Kids Moving

Sometimes, students -- both big and small -- just need to move around. School can involve a lot of sitting, so it's important to give kids opportunities to wiggle, stretch, and play. In addition to being a brain break, revving up blood flow, and just plain being fun, activities that involve movement can also be instructional. Of course, not every kid will be able to do every activity, so make sure to choose and adapt to make sure all kids are included.

Grades Pre-K-2 Ball up socks, pieces of paper, yarn, or other soft things. Decide on teams and rules, and let the epic "snowball" fight begin! This one could easily go awry in a school setting, so it might be best for home! When ice skaters do a cool new move, it's named after them. Make up some moves -- jumps, tricks, and poses -- and show them off! Use chalk, tape, or other materials to jump into some old-school hopscotch for indoor or outdoor fun. This could be a way to get kids counting by 1s, 5s, or 10s. Scatter pennies and pick them up as fast as possible. Then add challenging variations, like only picking them up with one hand, using a magnet on a string, etc. Kids can practice writing instructions to follow to pair with this activity. Curate a playlist of pop songs from varied cultures or countries. Dance your way through the playlist. Then talk about the cultures or countries featured in the playlist. If in the classroom, make it representative of the kids in your class! Set up a simple, safe obstacle course inside or outside, and do time trials to see how fast kids can go. You can use this activity to talk about minutes and seconds. Move around the room without touching the floor. Step on chairs, pillows, blankets, but not the hot lava! You can design it so kids can only move to the next safe step by answering a question. Grades 3-12 Upcycle items to create a mini-golf course. Find objects to use as a club and golf ball, and then put it to the test! In the classroom, design in groups to create a hole using some elementary physics. The older the kids, the more sophisticated the concepts and design can be. Write five creative clues that will lead someone -- or another group -- to a treasure. Do it outside if you can! To add another layer, each clue could be based on a specific topic kids are learning about. Have kids create TikTok-style dances that book characters would do and then have them teach the dance to someone else, or the whole class. Make "yes" and "no" signs, and then tape them to opposite walls. Ask questions about personal preferences, specific subjects, or whatever works for your setting, and have kids indicate their answer by walking to the "yes" or "no" wall. Change up the signs with character names, countries, etc. Another variation is having kids stand up or sit down in response to yes/no questions. Offline and Off-Screen Activities to Get Kids Reflecting

Encouraging kids to look inward and take stock is important. At home, modeling and doing it as a family can provide access points. In the objective-focused environment that is school, it's easy to cut out anything that feels extraneous. Sometimes that means activities that are more about focusing on our inner process rather than external output. But reflection has its own set of educational benefits -- including reinforcing SEL -- so taking some time to encourage kids to look inward is also time well spent.

Grades Pre-K-2 Practice financial literacy with this spend-save-share activity from FitMoney. Get kids thinking about setting goals, saving, and contributing money to causes. *Describe the day to a family member, or start/end your class, with one thing that fits each category: Include something positive (rose), something hopeful (bud), and something challenging (thorn). Take turns sharing. *Find some markers and paper and turn emotions into art. What color is joy? Sadness? Boredom? Love? This could also segue into writing poems. *Have kids write about or draw pictures of things they appreciate about themselves. Though this will likely be easier for younger kids, it can also be a beneficial activity for older kids who might be struggling with self-image. *Decorate a gratitude jar. When kids feel grateful, they can write or draw the reason on paper and put it in the jar. Read the results each week. This can be a family or classroom activity! Grades 3-5 Use this activity so kids can practice differentiating between needs and wants. You can use this as a jumping-off point for a bigger discussion about sustainability. *Talk about what toasts are, and then have kids prepare one for a person or pet they love and appreciate. Pour some juice and take turns toasting. *During the week, have kids take pictures of things they're thankful for. Then have them combine them into a slideshow, collage, or other collection to revisit and add to. *Ask kids to write down their favorite things to watch, read, or listen to. Why do they like each of them? Do they all share a common theme? Challenge them to really examine their preferences. Grades 6-8 Though some kids might be able to jump into a gratitude journal, this printable can help others get started. Encourage them to write 5-10 things each day. You can also preface this ongoing activity by digging into the science around the positive effects of being thankful. Explain or show what the pandemic experience and world events have been like using words, art, music, Minecraft -- whatever works. By creating and sharing, kids can process their experiences. Ask kids to think about something that they know has tons of learning value but may not typically be considered educational. Then challenge them to persuade you! Grades 9-12 Have kids take a peek into the future. What are they looking forward to? What goals do they have? Ask them to find a way to show or explain the things they want to make happen. *Though these focus exercises from SERP are great for younger kids, too, teens often face lots of distractions. Do them with your teen or class so kids can figure out which ones work best for them. *Have teens think about a success story from their life using this activity from Character Lab. Reflecting on the actual steps can help inform efforts toward future goals. Some kids might struggle with identifying a "success," especially if they're having a hard time, so make sure all kids find something to focus on. Offline and Off-Screen Activities for Giving

Sometimes the best activities are the ones that offer something to others. Like reflecting, the act of giving definitely involves SEL, but there are ways to connect generous acts with subject-matter content, too. Whether through a short standalone lesson or a design-thinking, student-driven project, students can learn a lot from helping others.

Grades Pre-K-2 Use this printable from PBSKids to help kids express thanks to the essential workers who keep everything going in good times -- and not-so-good times. Get crafty and create a bouquet of flowers for a family member out of paper, pipe cleaners, and upcycled materials. Write a note or draw a picture to go with it. Spread some love! Color paper hearts and cut them out. Then write positive, encouraging messages on each one, and place them around the house or classroom for your family or classmates to find. Grades 3-12 Let Love for Our Elders facilitate some letter writing! Follow the guidelines and write some snail mail to elders who might need some contact and encouragement! Challenge kids to help an adult in 15-minute bursts, or longer! They can clean, carry, cook, etc., to be of service. In the classroom, kids can keep a service journal to reflect on their experiences. Pass the appreciation: Gather the family or class in a circle. Grab a ball or pillow, toss it to someone, and say something you appreciate about them. Keep it going! Have kids write a short thank-you note to someone who did something nice for them this week.

Lead image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action

Showing a Movie in Class? Help Your Students Develop Active Viewing Skills

Showing a Movie in Class? Help Your Students Develop Active Viewing Skills — Tue, 07 Dec 21 17:40:00 -0800

The words "movie day" probably evoke fond memories from our own childhoods: Teachers rolling out the TV/VCR cart; the classroom lights flickering out; everyone scooting their desks to get a better view or a seat near a friend; and, if we were lucky, maybe even the smell of freshly microwaved popcorn. Today, when it comes to watching movies in school, the technology has changed (no more squinting to see a tiny TV in the corner!), but our students love movie days just the same -- if not more.

There's magic in the shared experience of seeing a great story unfold on the screen, together, in the same room.

Sometimes showing a movie in class is just the right call. Some movies can help illustrate big, complex ideas. Others help us explore detailed topics in ways that just aren't possible otherwise. And the best movies help us enrich students' learning about the much wider world outside of our classroom's walls.

And to top it off, classroom movies are a great way to help students practice their media literacy skills. Active viewing is a skill that doesn't always come naturally, but it's something all students can practice and learn. And in today's media-saturated world, kids need all the help they can get when it comes to different ways of thinking about what they're seeing on screens of all sizes.

Movie Review Lesson Plan: Help Your Students Become Active Viewers

Use this lesson plan and worksheet to help your students practice their active viewing skills, no matter what movie they're watching! We've designed this lesson and activity for middle school, but it could also be great for upper elementary or even in a high school class. Feel free to adapt this lesson (and the included Google Doc movie guide) to suit your specific needs.

Tip!

Need help choosing a movie? Common Sense Media has reviews and age ratings for over 10,000 popular movies! Even though the site is aimed at parents and families, it can be a very helpful guide in selecting the right movie for your classroom.

Before selecting any movie for your classroom: Be sure to use your professional judgment, along with any guidelines your school or district may already have in place. You know your curriculum, your students, and community best!

Concerned about copyright? Guess what? You're probably okay! Check out our article Teachers’ Essential Guide to Showing Movies and Videos in the Classroom for more information about how U.S. copyright law applies to movies in classrooms.

Prep for teachers

Objective: Students will be able to build active viewing skills and write a movie review.

First and foremost, preview any movie before you show it in class. It might sound obvious, but this is such an important step! You'll be able to see if the movie's appropriate, but also whether it's a good fit for your students' learning. You'll also be able to find some key scenes to discuss (see below for some tips on this). Make a copy of the Write a Movie Review! handout. Before distributing to your students, feel free to customize the handout to your class's needs. (Note: You'll probably want to add a bit more space for students to write in their answers.) Review the lesson plan and talking points below (including the active viewing definition) for yourself before class starts. Tip!

As you pre-screen the movie, make note of some key scenes where you'll pause and discuss with students.

Looking for some examples? Check out our SEL movie guides for the movies Inside Out, Whale Rider, and Minari where we've already listed some important scenes for discussion, along with time stamps for each. Keep in mind that we've provided a LOT of examples for these films. You might end up with fewer -- anywhere from two or three to more than a dozen scenes is just fine! Do what feels reasonable for yourself, and what's best for your students' learning.

In the classroom

Essential question: How can active viewing help me write a movie review?

Hook (5-10 minutes)

Before you start the movie, ask students if they've ever seen or read a movie review -- if so, where did they see it? Was the review from an expert, a journalist, or professional movie reviewer? Or maybe was it written and posted online by an everyday viewer sharing their opinion? Some students may have already written their own movie review somewhere!

Then ask students: What makes an expert's movie review different? Are they just going on a "gut feeling"? Or are they doing something that makes their reviews better or more informed?

After entertaining students' ideas, explain that, when professional movie critics rate and review a movie, they usually go on a lot more than just a gut feeling. They're doing something called active viewing. They're not just saying if they thought the movie was good or bad. Professional movie reviewers also explain -- in detail -- why they thought it was good or bad (or somewhere in-between).

Hand out the Write a Movie Review! graphic organizer

Give students copies of the Write a Movie Review! handout (or if you're using the digital version, copy and distribute them online). Explain to students that they'll be watching a movie in class, but also practicing their active viewing skills at the same time. By the end, they'll have everything they'll need to write their own review of the movie.

Active viewing, defined:

Ask your students: What do you think "active viewing" means? As a class, review the elements that help define active viewing that appear at the top of the graphic organizer.

Active viewing means:

Watching with a purpose Paying attention Taking notes Asking good questions about what you're seeing

And it also means doing these things before, during, and after you watch.

Tip!

Depending on how much scaffolding your students may need, consider adapting the handout to remove these elements so students can fill in the blanks on their own as you review in class.

Before you watch:

Help students jot down some key information about the movie before you start watching. Ask them to think about why these things might be important in thinking more deeply about the movie.

You can also preview the rest of the handout with students before you start the movie -- mainly the "While You Watch" section, so they know what to look for while watching.

While you watch:

Start the movie and enjoy! Be ready to pause at key scenes so students have a bit of time to process, or even discuss, what they're seeing. During these pauses, you might even encourage students to think about whether they'd like to choose the scene as something to write about (or draw!) on their handout.

As you pause, reflect, and discuss, you might even consider rewinding and rewatching a particular scene. Some scenes in movies are truly worthy of a second look for students, especially in light of something that comes up in discussion that some students may have missed or want to see again.

After you watch:

Give students some time to process and think about what they've just seen before diving into any discussion or reactions. The "After You Watch" questions on the handout are a great start, but feel free to bring up any other relevant questions specific to the movie you're using. Be sure to give students plenty of time to look back at their notes and reflect.

Encourage students to wait before giving the movie their star rating. Remember: Active viewing takes place before, during, and after the movie. Ask them to resist the urge to judge the movie before they've considered all of the active viewing questions, saving the star rating for last. This way -- just like a professional movie reviewer! -- they'll have fully considered the movie before giving it their official star rating.

Writing Extension!

Students can revise the notes they've taken on their handout, turning it into an actual, written movie review! Better yet, encourage students to share their reviews with an authentic audience -- classmates, families, or even online!

Looking for an online space where kids can share their movie reviews?

Common Sense Media has thousands of movie reviews written by kids! As an option, have students consider posting and sharing their reviews online with us!

Note: Be sure to follow your school or district's policies about students sharing content publicly online. Also, keep in mind that students will need to create accounts on Common Sense Media in order to share their reviews. Students under 13 years old will need a parent's or guardian's consent and help to create an account. But it's a good idea for all students -- even those over 13 -- to talk with their parents before creating new online accounts on any site.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Winter Holiday Resources to Promote Connection and Inclusion

Winter Holiday Resources to Promote Connection and Inclusion — Thu, 11 Nov 21 17:21:00 -0800

Right around winter break, everyone's thoughts start to turn to the upcoming time off and family celebrations. In school, little kids are tracing their hands to make turkeys, while older students might be taking final exams. No matter what's on the schedule, it's a great opportunity to make a little space for some social and emotional learning that leans into the spirit of the season rather than skating across the surface.

Highlighting the history behind various winter holidays encourages inclusion and lets kids learn about different traditions from each other. Also, focusing on friendship, family, and kindness fosters the feelings of connection that we hope all kids experience, especially during this time of year. And planning some projects before -- or during -- the break can keep kids in touch with some SEL-inspired creativity.

Check out the individual activities below, or print out these cards and drop them into a jar. Try one, two, or 10 to keep kids thinking and creating while school's out!

Activities to Learn About Holiday Histories

Since kids everywhere celebrate different winter holidays, it's a great idea to encourage them to embrace that diversity and learn about each other's traditions. Use the resources below to learn more about familiar holidays or discuss ones you might know less about.

Make your own dreidel and find out if kids already know the rules. Then play together! (Grades K-2) For slightly older kids, you can use this resource to read the rules, learn the symbolism, and make a dreidel if you don't have one already. (Grades 1-3) After finding out about students' prior knowledge, use this short video from PBS LearningMedia so kids can learn more about the origin and traditions of the Jewish holiday Hanukkah. (Grades 2-6) Older kids can read this article from National Geographic about the solstice and how various cultures marked this time of year. (Grades 3-5) Learn more about Kwanzaa's seven-day celebration of African American culture and heritage with this video from PBS LearningMedia. Check out the supporting materials for more resources. (Grades 3-6) Learn about Kwanzaa's history and meaning from Education.com, and then do some research to learn more. Allow some space for kids -- or you -- to share what you know already! (Grades 4-6) Incorporate Native American perspectives and histories into your Thanksgiving lessons with resources from the National Museum of the American Indian. (Grades 3-12) Find overviews of different winter celebrations, including Christmas, St. Lucia Day, Three Kings Day, and more, in this article from Learning Liftoff, then encourage kids to talk about their own winter traditions. (Grades 5-8) Though some people know the Christmas gift-bringer as Santa, that's not true everywhere! Talk about the different cultural characters who bestow presents around the world, and then explore some of the other resources about Christmas on the Why Christmas site. (Grades 5-8) If you want to dive into how Christmas is celebrated around the world, check out this article from the History Channel to travel to places like Sweden, Australia, Ukraine, and more. (Grades 6-12) Find out why some people cut down trees and bring them inside during Christmas by reading this article from the History Channel. Extend the learning by researching how politics, religion, and fashion shaped other traditions. (Grades 6-12) Activities to Learn About Gratitude and Kindness

Underneath the festivities, winter holidays almost always involve gatherings and togetherness. Tap into that deeper current of connection with the activities below.

Sing along with Daniel Tiger's Thank-You Song, then have kids think of someone they want to thank, and share why they feel grateful to that person. (Grades PreK-K) Listen to this well-known bilingual Christmas song, and sing along in both English and Spanish. Make sure to include opportunities to acknowledge other holiday traditions as well. (Grades PreK-K) Find out what happens to the main character in Sylvester and the Magic Pebble when all of his wishes come true, and see how he learns to be grateful for what he has. Have students discuss the story and share what they're grateful for! (Grades PreK-2) Join Elephant and Piggy creator Mo Willems for Thank-O-Rama. Think of someone to thank, make them a card, and sing a thank-you song. (Grades K-2) Listen to this podcast from the Imagine Neighborhood where students can use their imaginations to talk about the things that matter, with the people who matter most. (Grades K-2) Because the winter holidays can be both an exciting and stressful time, use this video to help kids get prepped to practice mindfulness, meditate, or just chill out. (Grades K-3) Enjoy Kindness Is Contagious, a warmhearted documentary (available free on Tubi) about the benefits of kindness. (Grades 4-10) Check out this video from the Be Kind People Project that gives practical tips about being grateful, using deep breathing, and more. (Grades 5-9) Watch this video from Wellcast to find out why being grateful makes us happier. Dive into the science a bit more, or just reflect on how to practice gratitude. (Grades 5-9) Print out these cards from Amplify to help students explore different values. Use the activities to reflect on which values matter most and then express why. (Grades 6-12) Challenge kids to use a journal over winter break to write down the things -- big and small -- that they're grateful for. Use this resource from Character Lab to get started. (Grades 6-12) Explore this volunteering site with students to discover all types of opportunities and ways to get involved with important causes, especially ones that will give others a boost around the holidays. (Grades 9-12) Also, consider these fun offline activities for gratitude and kindness: For a fun offline activity, decorate a large cardboard box. Use it to store gifts for local charities. Put in toys to donate, food to give away, and more! (Grades PreK-12) For another offline option, decorate a gratitude jar as a class. Whenever someone feels grateful, they can write or draw the reason on a paper and put it in the jar. Read the results each week. (Grades PreK-12) Create a Kindness Challenge! Think of a way your classroom or school can show kindness to each other. How can you help each other or make the day better? Share ideas and make a plan to get the challenge started. (Grades PreK-12) Activities to Learn About Creativity and Connection

Sometimes the best way to access the personal meaning of the holidays is through creativity. Let kids make, bake, and write their way to the spirit of generosity and connection that's the backdrop of the season.

Use some around-the-house supplies to make it snow inside. Follow the instructions from Kidsburgh and watch the blizzard begin! You can use the jar as a way to practice deep breathing and mindfulness as kids watch the snow settle. (Grades PreK-2) Make this Tinkergarten tree of thanks together, and start a gratitude practice in your home or class. (Grades PreK-3) Make "snoball" cookies with this winter-inspired video and cookie recipe from The Kids Should See This. Though this one won't work at school, you can send it home for kids to do over break! (PreK-12) Have students use this writing prompt from Education.com to reflect on what winter means to them and how they know when winter has arrived. (Grades 1-3) Kindness rocks! Write inspiring notes on rocks and leave them for your friends, family, or community to find. (Grades 1-6) Use these questions from Family Tree Magazine (or write your own) to interview a family member. Write down or record their answers, and share with the whole family. (Grades 3-6) Read this poem by David Young. Then, as you think about your mother or another caregiver, identify some of the everyday ways that person shows you love. Show your appreciation with a note or hug. (Grades 5-12) After you read this poem by Alberto Rios, write about your own family legend or story with as much detail as you can. (Grades 6-12) Make a paper model of the solar system that helps students visualize Earth's yearly orbit around the Sun. How does the darker time of year affect us? How do our celebrations contribute? (Grades 6-12) Have students read this poem by Edna St. Vincent Millay, then write one sentence that captures its theme. Students can also write about the role of love among our basic needs. (Grades 6-12) Participate in Storycorp's The Great Thanksgiving Listen! Interview an elder or loved one in person or virtually, and share your own unique oral history with the world. (Grades 9-12) Have students explore and record their family's history -- there's never been a better time. Use this guide from Atlas Obscura for tips and inspiration, then get recording! (Grades 9-12) Also, consider these fun offline activities for creativity and connection: Use some art supplies to create a bouquet of "forever flowers" for a classmate or family member. Write notes or draw pictures to go with them. (Grades PreK-2) Students can write down some family traditions, whether they're for holidays, birthdays, or other special reasons, then share with the class. (Grades 2-12) Over the break, have students create and send out a family newsletter. It can be digital or a real, physical object. Tell them to try including a variety of stuff: news, interviews, history, recipes, and more. (Grades 3-12) Over the break, students can take some time to curate their best family photos and put them into a digital (or physical) album. Create a theme or just choose your favorites. Ask kids to share when they get back from break! (Grades 3-12)

Tips and Strategies to Boost Student Engagement

Tips and Strategies to Boost Student Engagement — Wed, 03 Nov 21 09:52:00 -0700

The pandemic has come with countless challenges for school communities. Disruptions like school openings and closures, shifts between remote, hybrid, and in-person learning, new policies and procedures, and the loss of shared traditions have made things difficult for everyone. There's little doubt that these starts, stops, and shifts have taken a toll on students' motivation and engagement in school.

As we regain some sense of normalcy, many teachers report that students are struggling to get engaged in learning. From screen-time habits to social and emotional issues, many students are struggling. And let's be honest: Student engagement is almost always a big challenge -- even under "normal" circumstances!

But teachers should consider both the challenges and opportunities of this situation. On the one hand, the tried-and-true strategies we've always used to engage students might not work as they did in the past, and may need a refresh. But on the other hand, we've probably learned some new strategies for engaging students during the pandemic that we can adapt to in-person learning. Read on for tips, strategies, and reminders to help bring kids back into the fold.

Tips to help students get engaged with learning: 1. Acknowledge students' social and emotional well-being

Regular check-ins with students are essential -- especially as pandemic-related stressors continue in one way or another. With so much change happening, students will need some extra time to reflect and process their emotions and state of mind. Fortunately, when it comes to addressing students' social and emotional well-being, a lot of resources and strategies are available. Here are a few to check out:

Address the impacts of digital life. Even while returning to in-person learning, we're all more connected to the digital world than ever. Common Sense's SEL in Digital Life Resource Center has CASEL-aligned classroom activities, conversation starters for families, and professional development resources to help. Set up structures for check-ins. Whether virtually or in person, you can use individual check-ins with students and families. Personalized outreach like this can help students reflect on their emotional ups and downs, and can go a long way toward helping them come to class ready to engage. Just the act of acknowledging that things may be stressful can help kids feel seen and heard, and make your class a bit more approachable. Be mindful of students' needs during times of transition. Common Sense's article 4 SEL Strategies for the Transition Back to In-Person Learning offers helpful advice on addressing students' challenges during moments of change. Weave in SEL throughout the year. SEL shouldn't be a one-and-done type of activity, or something we address at the start of the school year, only to abandon. Common Sense's We All Teach SEL series looks at the ways you can incorporate SEL-friendly digital tools into various subjects, and this article from UC Berkeley's Greater Good Magazine offers three ideas for weaving SEL into your curriculum.

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2. Find balance with technology -- inside and outside the classroom

The screen-time struggle is real. Many of us have spent the better part of the pandemic glued to our screens, whether for work, school, socializing, or entertainment. Some students may be struggling to adapt to in-person social environments. And plenty of students and teachers are burned out from so many months of online lessons, videos, and assignments -- it's important to acknowledge this.

But now that we're back to learning in person, there might be an impulse to overreact and abandon digital media and tools altogether. But simply throwing technology by the wayside probably isn't the answer -- it's all about finding a balance. It's most important to use the tools and routines that best serve students' learning, whether they're digital or not. Additionally, teachers can use this year as an opportunity to help students to consider the impacts of their media choices outside of school. Here are a few tips:

Be mindful of media balance (or "screen time") in your classroom. Just like we think about "screen time" outside of school, it’s important to reflect on this aspect of our classrooms. Don’t shy away from opportunities to use pen and paper, as a lot of students may appreciate slowing down a bit. It's fine to use YouTube or show classroom videos, but be strategic about it. If you found tech tools or apps useful during distance learning, great -- don’t necessarily abandon things that are working. Regardless of what you choose, make it transparent to students that you're thinking about this part of their learning experience. Keep doing what's working. Learning Management Systems (LMSs), apps, and other digital tools have been essential for learning during the pandemic, and some are probably worth keeping, even if you're learning in person. This is a great time to reflect on your pedagogical toolbox -- keep using the digital tools that work, but also feel free to reconsider using anything that's redundant or unnecessary. Teach some digital citizenship lessons on media balance. Common Sense Education has media balance and well-being lessons at every grade level. These lessons and discussions can help kids think critically about their media choices and the impacts that media has on all of us. Check out the full list linked above, or consider some of the standout lessons below -- each of which also offers a quick, 15-minute activity if you don't have time for a full lesson: Pause for People (Kindergarten) Device-Free Moments (2nd Grade) My Media Choices (4th Grade) Finding Balance in a Digital World (6th Grade) Digital Media and Your Brain (8th Grade) The Health Effects of Screen Time (12th Grade) 3. Jump-start class participation

For many teachers, getting students to participate during remote learning was a huge struggle. Now that students are back in person, it's time to reinvigorate the kind of excitement that comes from learning something new. Here are some tips on encouraging participation -- without necessarily putting kids on the spot.

Low-stakes strategies: There are plenty of ways to encourage students to chime in during class, both voluntarily and involuntarily. Tried-and-true strategies like index cards or popsicle sticks (aka "equity sticks") can help make class participation equitable, spur new voices, and keep students alert. Alternatively, if you're still using an online platform (like Google Classroom), you could ask students to respond to prompts with emojis, as outlined in this article from Edutopia. Student-led discussion: Even with in-person learning, consider how you might still use asynchronous digital conversations as a way to ease students back into regular expectations for participation. If your students aren't feeling ready to share out loud in class, consider holding a discussion online first, to scaffold a more engaged, out-loud version of the discussion later. For more on this, check out the article 5 Online Discussion Tools to Fuel Student Engagement. Remote learning may have made it hard to stray from teacher-led lessons. Students who became used to teacher-centered instruction may have been reluctant to participate. This article from the online discussion tool Parlay offers useful ideas on elevating students' voices so they can take more ownership over their learning.

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4. Be mindful about curriculum pacing

There's been plenty of media coverage about students' so-called learning loss during the pandemic, and some of the concern is certainly justified. While you may feel pressure to help students "catch up," speeding through your daily lessons or curriculum probably isn't the best idea -- especially when it comes to supporting student engagement! Consider the following ideas:

Resist the temptation to reteach: Even though students need enough exposure and practice to master content, remediation may not be very beneficial for students. Consider focusing your staff collaboration or professional learning community (PLC) meetings on examining what curriculum wasn't covered, then work together to find new opportunities for students to learn and demonstrate understanding. Focus on depth over breadth: Time is a finite resource, and many teachers might feel a pull to "cover" curriculum to ensure that students are exposed to the maximum amount of course content. This is rarely a sound strategy, though. As students, most people remember very little if they don't have adequate time to process, reflect, and apply anything new that they've learned. Don't fall into the trap of trying to cover everything; instead, focus on the larger concepts with more depth, which will help students develop more of an enduring understanding.

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What research says about student engagement during the pandemic:

Research from Common Sense in March of 2021 showed that the number of teens reporting symptoms of moderate to severe depression increased by 25% compared with before the pandemic. Interestingly, this research also found that, for many teens, social media played an important role in helping them stay informed and feel connected during pandemic-related lockdowns. This positive outlook on social media may be something for teachers to consider as we're thinking about how to help students engage more with in-person learning.

According to data collected by the EdWeek research center in 2021, both students and teachers reported distressing levels of student morale and motivation compared with before the pandemic -- numbers that undoubtedly had a negative impact on students' engagement. As teachers, we may know our content inside and out, and we might even have access to the latest tech tools to help our students learn. But none of this will really help so much unless our students come to class alert and ready to participate in our lessons. Simply put, when our students are more engaged, they're better equipped to learn and do well in school -- now and in the future.

Images courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action

Free Learning Resources for Hispanic Heritage Month

Free Learning Resources for Hispanic Heritage Month — Wed, 15 Sep 21 13:46:00 -0700

Though backgrounds, cultures, and histories are a part of our classrooms every day, September 15-October 15 is officially National Hispanic American Heritage Month. Teachers can use this opportunity to shine a light on the critical contributions, rich culture, and long history of Hispanic and Latino Americans. With these resources, students can read, listen, watch, and go off-screen for activities that will give them a window into the enormous impact that Hispanic and Latino people have had on our world.

Below, we've broken our list down into grade bands, and by activity type, so you can check out the resources most relevant to your classes first. But be sure to check out all of the resources, since there's plenty of overlap between grade levels!

Resources for Grades Pre-K to 2

The offline activities here will get kids making and coloring crafts from Hispanic and Latino cultures. They can also watch videos that highlight traditional music and illustrate how Spanish is a language spoken in many countries. Make sure to give kids space to talk about their own related knowledge and experiences.

Videos:

Editor's note for all of the YouTube videos listed in this article: Pressing play on the YouTube video will set third-party cookies controlled by Google if you are logged in to Chrome. See Google's cookie information for details.

Use this YouTube video from Sesame Street to talk about different countries where Spanish is spoken. Let your bilingual kids show off some words and phrases in a language other than English. This Sesame Street video from PBS LearningMedia showcases some percussion instruments used in South America. Show this entire 20-minute YouTube video from 123 Andrés -- or just some clips -- to highlight different types of instruments and music. Students can sing along in Spanish, dance, and listen! In this YouTube video from Global Read Aloud week, the Mexican American author Yuyi Morales talks about her idea for her book Just a Minute: A Trickster Tale and Counting Book. Then she reads it aloud. Hands-on activities: If you want an activity that's more open-ended, have kids use the directions from Kid World Citizen to make some Ecuadorian clay -- migajón -- and create something. These coloring pages from Education.com can open up a great discussion about each famous person's contributions. Explore ancient history by talking about -- and then making -- Taíno petroglyphs using this resource from Kid World Citizen. Work together as a class or in groups to make your own piñatas with guidance from HITN. Resources for Grades 3-5

Third through fifth graders can watch musicians play traditional instruments, learn about prominent Latino and Hispanic people from the present day and the past, read stories about immigration experiences, and more.

Videos: In this YouTube video from Inka Gold, listen to and watch musicians from the group El Dorado play the music of the Andes, including melodies from the Peruvian pan flute. To weave in cross-curricular ideas, talk about why the different pipe lengths on the flute affect the sound, read about the Andes mountains, learn about the Indigenous people of Peru, or have students use figurative language to describe the music! This 25-minute YouTube video from the Lincoln Center features the Villalobos brothers and their friends playing music, singing, and dancing. Along the way, they talk about some of the instruments and songs. Afterward, have students write about their favorite segments. This YouTube video from the Disney Channel features various Disney stars who kids may recognize explaining and celebrating their Latino and Hispanic backgrounds. The video can be a great jumping-off point for students to share their own backgrounds in some way. Texts: From Education.com, read and talk about Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina -- and woman of color -- to ever be appointed to the highest court in the United States. Students can then explore more about the judicial branch, research other prominent Latinas, or do some math about percentages of representation in the government in contrast with the U.S. population. Explore these poems from Central America, provided in both English and Spanish by Teaching Central America. Read them all together, or have students choose their favorite to illustrate, read aloud, or present in some other way. Of course, students can also write their own poems! Teaching Central America also has a host of other downloadable texts and teaching guides to explore -- you'll need to register with an email address for access. Hands-on activities: Patterns within textiles are often a hallmark of a culture, and with this activity from Education.com, kids can explore that idea. First, they color an Incan pattern, and then they can create it themselves. The Nazca lines in Peru are sure to fascinate students, so have them learn about what we know, then create their own designs using simple materials and instructions from Spanish Mama! Then they can research more about the ancient people who made them, and make a case for what they think their purpose was. Resources for Grades 6-8

Explore ancient civilizations and fine art, or learn about leaders like Cesar Chavez. Tackle the appropriation of the taco, or read literature from Latino authors. And you can explore lessons like this one about Maria Moreno at PBS LearningMedia, or these at Zinn Education Project, too.

Videos: Paired with reflection questions you can use for discussion or written response, this video from Re-Imagining Migration features Latino people talking about their perceptions of race. After viewing, students can produce their own videos. These videos from NBC offer profiles of women -- specifically Latinas -- working in STEM fields. The first is an engineer at Boeing, and the second is an electrical engineer who also mentors young girls. Talk about the importance of diversity in these highly technical fields. Watch this video about Cesar Chavez from TeachWithMovies.org to find out why he's a critical figure in the labor movement. Pair with some history or a short story about similar issues, or do some math around how much migrant farmworkers are typically paid. This short YouTube video from In This Together profiles one man's experience as a farmworker, and could be a great companion to the video above. Texts: Pair this text about Dolores Huerta with the video about Cesar Chavez above to highlight another important icon. Other teacher resources are available with a Facing History & Ourselves account. From CommonLit, this set of texts features Hispanic, Latino, and Chicano authors. Consider assigning specific pieces for a jigsaw activity, or letting kids choose a text that appeals to them. Starting with tacos and addressing appropriation, this lengthy article from the New York Times is a great way to get kids thinking about how pieces of Hispanic and Latino cultures -- among others -- are often appropriated for profit. Can they think of other examples of this type of appropriation? Together, read this New York Times article about Gwen Ifill, an Afro-Latina icon of journalism, and how her success inspired the author's students. Expand the discussion to consider the concept of representation, why it matters, and who inspires your students. Interactives: From Google Arts & Culture, this interactive presentation about Tikal, Guatemala, an ancient Mayan kingdom, can give students an appreciation for the vast cities and cultures that existed before our present day. Ask students which discoveries they're most surprised about. This feature, also from Google Arts & Culture, provides a treasure trove of information about Mexico. It highlights various places and lets students interact with art. Find out if students are familiar with some of the featured places, and share if you are! With this Google Doc from the Kennedy Center, students can research leaders of the Mexican Revolution. Resources for Grades 9-12

From the ancient Aztec empire to the fabulous Frida Kahlo, high school students can jump into the art, literature, and representation of Hispanic and Latino people.

Videos: Watch this short introduction to Frida Kahlo from TED-Ed (via YouTube) and then, to explore further, jump over to Google Arts & Culture to learn more and see her art. Have students determine what pieces of her life they see reflected in her art. Though it's hosted on YouTube, this audio-only podcast from the Fall of Civilizations is about the Aztec empire. In its entirety, it would span several class periods, so it's probably best in shorter segments. Listening is a great opportunity for students to practice their note-taking skills. Texts: Read this poem by Juan Felipe Herrera and discuss the imagery he uses. Then you can let students explore more poems curated by Poets.org for Hispanic Heritage Month. Have students choose one or more to present or use as inspiration to write their own. Use this article from the LA Times to spark a conversation about Latino representation in the media. Are there any surprising statistics? Students can discuss the importance of representation and potentially identify an example of when they "saw" themselves in the media. Interactives: Click through this Google Arts & Culture collection of Latino musicians with embedded audio of interviews and music. Have students share some of their favorite Latino and Hispanic artists and bands. Pair this feature on the Library of Congress website with actual texts, and students can hear Hispanic and Latino authors reading their work to make it come alive.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

The Best Digital Libraries for Kids and Students

The Best Digital Libraries for Kids and Students — Mon, 06 Sep 21 09:00:00 -0700

Reading is the key that unlocks learning. But all too often kids’ potential love of reading gets ground to dust during the process of reading and literacy development -- this can be especially true for kids who need extra support. These frustrations can snowball, transforming books from magical escapes into mountains to climb. And now with YouTube or Minecraft just a tap away, books have the odds stacked against them.

All of this is to say: digital library apps need to be really, really good. They’ve got to have compelling content, offer a frustration-free reading experience, and support features that make reading more accessible and delightful than a paperback. We think our choices below meet, and may even exceed, this criteria -- they have the potential to get kids hooked on books and build lifelong habits.

Our selections Best overall: Epic!

If your goal is to help kids build a love of reading, then there just isn’t anything quite like Epic!. The user experience outpaces the competition in both its ease of use and its beauty. It’s also got an impressively large library of high-quality books -- these aren't the bargain bin picture books you'll find with some other competitors. As a result, browsing Epic! feels like a real library or store full of stuff that kids will actually want to read.

To this end, Epic! also recommends books by age as well as interest. Teachers can assign kids specific books, or even just set general themes students will like, then leave the choosing up to them. These recommendations improve as students rate and review the books they've read -- one of Epic!'s cooler features.

Teachers will love all the extras Epic! offers for extending and encouraging kids' learning -- from monthly calendars and reading challenges to badges and educational videos. There’s a ton of extra supporting content, some of it which gets updated monthly to keep things fresh. And while Epic! isn’t as accessible to all learners as something like Learning Ally (featured below), it does have a good set of core accessibility supports, including a growing library of human-voiced read-alouds (with follow-along highlighting), a built-in Merriam-Webster dictionary, and audiobooks. There are also books added regularly in Spanish, Chinese, and French as well as a growing library of books with multiple-choice quizzes.

One caveat with Epic! is that while it's free for classrooms, at-home students are limited to just one book per day. If they want to read more, their family will need its own paid Epic! Unlimited account. It’s also worth noting that Epic! isn't as transparent as they could be about their privacy practices, and you may want to take this into consideration.

Read our review of Epic!.

Runner-up (with more learning options): MyON

If you're looking for a little more learning support layered into the digital reading experience, MyON might be what you need. While it doesn’t have the polish of Epic!, or the expansive library, there are enough books to satisfy students’ interests. Most importantly, each book is paired with an impressive batch of instructional features that allow teachers to extend reading and bridge reading and writing.

While reading a book in MyON, students can annotate texts with drawing tools and highlighters, and also add notes. Teachers can review all of this work to get a sense of students’ thinking. After students are done reading, there’s a set of graphic organizers that can help structure their reflections. The final piece of the puzzle is MyON projects, where students can complete writing tasks that teachers assign to them.

All of these features place MyON in an interesting position between two poles. It’s not as pure and polished of a reading experience as Epic! and it’s not as robust of a literacy instruction tool as something like StudySync or LightSail. However, it could be the “just right” tool for those looking to balance both.

Read our review of MyON.

Other recommendations Best for assessment: Raz-Kids

Raz-Kids has a smaller library than all of our other recommendations, but what it offers instead is a unique assessment tool that, for some teachers, could be the deciding factor. Also, with Raz-Kids students can read their books aloud, record their reading, and then send these recordings back to teachers for feedback and assessment. Students also start off with a benchmark assessment that fuels their recommended books. Once they get reading, every book features multiple-choice comprehension questions and some even have short response questions.

Read our review of Raz-Kids.

Great content: ReadingIQ

This is a newer tool that could, with enough time and further development, give Epic! a run for its money. In terms of visual design, ReadingIQ is a great looking product -- on par with Epic! -- and also features an impressive and growing library, including titles from Disney’s family of properties. This alone might make it the go-to option for some, since the familiar titles could be just the thing to motivate a reluctant reader. You'll also be pleased to know that, like Epic!, ReadingIQ is free for teachers.

Read our review of ReadingIQ.

Most accessible: Learning Ally Audiobooks

If you’re serving students with reading-based learning differences -- whether due to a physical or cognitive disability -- you’ll want to take a good look at Learning Ally. It has accommodations and tools that makes books more accessible, including fully-voiced audio and excellent (possibly best-in-class) customization of how text is formatted and presented on the screen. Best of all: it’s free for qualifying students and features an incredible library of popular books students will love. While it’s not as big of a library as the expansive Bookshare (which is very similar), the human-voiced texts set it apart -- the thousands of texts Learning Ally does have will still satisfy.

Read our review of Learning Ally Audiobooks

See everything we considered

The tools we've featured in this article are just a small slice of everything we looked at. If you prefer to do your own evaluation, find every tool we considered in our Top Picks list:

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Our criteria

To help organize our evaluation of digital libraries, we looked at the following key features and functionalities:

Library size. Book quality. Student choice in book selection. Representation and diversity in book content. Tailoring and recommendations. The dashboards for teachers and families. Teachers' ability to offer assignments. Accessibility and language options. Extras and extensions. Why trust us? Our evaluation process.

Our team of editors and reviewers (all current or former educators and/or researchers) painstakingly looked at nearly a dozen digital library apps and websites for this article and narrowed down the five you see above for deeper evaluation and consideration. Each tool went through a rigorous evaluation process by both a reviewer and an editor. This involved hands-on testing (including, in some cases, in classrooms or other real-world scenarios), rating according to our research-backed 14-point rubric, communication with developers and other educators, and finally a written review. We also consulted our vast library of from-the-field reviews submitted by practicing educators. All told, each site underwent at minimum of four to six hours of testing and evaluation.

More information on our ratings and reviews. Is there something we missed? Request a product for review.

Teachers' Essential Guide to YouTube

Teachers' Essential Guide to YouTube — Tue, 31 Aug 21 16:58:00 -0700

With an estimated 500 hours of content uploaded every minute, YouTube’s ever-increasing collection of videos is a lot of things to a lot of people. It's entertainment, it's news and commentary, it's how-to videos, and it's much, much more. But how useful is YouTube for teachers and students?

The reality is that millions of teachers and students around the globe use YouTube for learning every day -- YouTube may very well be the world's most popular destination for online learning. But when it comes to classroom learning, your success with YouTube will depend a lot on how you use it.

Read on to find our answers to teachers’ commonly asked questions about the platform. In addition, we'll share some information on how to find the best educational videos, as well as how you and your students can create and share your own video content on the platform.

Use these links to jump to any section below:

Is YouTube good for learning? What ages or grade levels is YouTube appropriate for? What are the privacy concerns when using YouTube in school? What is the difference between YouTube and YouTube Kids? Where can you find good YouTube videos for learning? Does Common Sense Education have its own YouTube channel? Are some YouTube videos inappropriate for school? Is YouTube a social network? What are some creative ways teachers and students can use YouTube in the classroom? Can teachers and students use YouTube to create their own videos? Are there teacher "influencers" on YouTube? How can you use YouTube to teach media literacy?

Is YouTube good for learning?

While videos can never really replace the magic teachers create in their classrooms, they can be a great supplemental resource for instruction. And there are many possibilities for how you can use YouTube in your classroom.

Many of us -- students and teachers alike -- use YouTube for entertainment, but the platform is also a popular destination for general learning content. Whether it's how-to videos, DIY fixes, software tutorials, or arts and crafts instruction, video, as a medium, is naturally useful in showing or explaining new concepts or ideas. This extends to learning content across all topics and for audiences of every age. Want to find an experiment on how to make an electromagnet with a AA battery, copper wire, and a nail? It's there. Or how about a strategy for leading inquiry-based discussions in the classroom? Check. You name it, the list goes on and on ... and on.

While a lot of YouTube videos still come from individual creators, or have more of a homespun feel, there are a host of long-established learning content creators -- like Khan Academy or Crash Course -- who got their starts on the platform. And many well-known media outlets now post content to YouTube as well, with educational video channels offered from the likes of Ted-Ed, Vox, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, PBS Kids, just to name a few.

With so much educational video content in one place, the main challenge for teachers is to figure out how to find the best content. Keep scrolling to see our tips on finding great videos for learning.

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What ages or grade levels is YouTube appropriate for?

Legally speaking, YouTube is for users 13 and older, as dictated by the Children's Online Privacy and Protection Act, or COPPA. That said, YouTube's terms or service state that users younger than 13 may use the platform with the permission of a parent or legal guardian. Of course, there are many, many videos on YouTube aimed at younger kids -- at the same time, not everything on the platform is necessarily appropriate for anyone who's at least 13.

For teachers, how you and your students use YouTube in the classroom is very important. YouTube has useful videos for students of all ages, but keep in mind that there's a big difference between a teacher showing a YouTube video to their class and asking students to access and use YouTube with their own device or account. This goes for students' data privacy, but it's also just a good consideration in terms of what's developmentally appropriate for students of different ages. For kids who are under 13, the YouTube Kids app is another option which we'll discuss below.

What are the privacy concerns when using YouTube in school?

Like many digital platforms, YouTube collects data from users in order to tailor content and ads and post suggested videos. It can also collect data from kids who are using the service. For a more detailed look, you can check out Common Sense's privacy evaluations of both YouTube and YouTube Kids.

As with any digital tool or website, teachers should be aware of the digital privacy implications for using the tool with students in the classroom. As we've already stated, how you and your students use YouTube in the classroom is very important -- there's a big difference between a teacher projecting a relevant or useful YouTube video for their class, and asking students to access and use YouTube on their own, especially for students who are under 13 years old.

Also, if you or your students are creating and posting content to YouTube, it's important to be aware about protecting students' personally identifiable information online.

For tips on keeping students' information confidential online, check out our article: Protecting Student Privacy on Social Meida: Do's and Don'ts for Teachers. We also have this handy infographic that sumarizes the article's tips in a handy poster you can hang in your classroom.

What is the difference between YouTube and YouTube Kids?

YouTube Kids is a free app created by YouTube designed specifically for children under 13 years old to browse and watch videos on their own. Every video in YouTube Kids is pulled from the main YouTube database, and also exists on the main YouTube platform. The difference is that YouTube Kids offers parents and families a safer, "walled garden" type of experience.

Theoretically, kids can discover and watch a large selection of kid-focused and kid-appropriate videos without also encountering the types of non kid-appropriate content you'd find on the main YouTube platform. YouTube Kids curates its kid-friendly videos through a combination of automated filters and human review -- but there have been instances where problematic content has slipped through the screening processes. Not to mention larger questions about whether the platform's videos can be considered educational or enriching on their own. As with the main YouTube platform, some degree of adult oversight is still important with YouTube Kids.

The app features tools to help parents and families further filter content by age and subject. You can also disable the search feature and limit kids' screen time using a timer. Keep in mind that YouTube Kids wasn't designed for the classroom, but it's possible that teachers may find some creative ways to use it for learning.

Where can you find good YouTube videos for learning?

To find quality learning videos on YouTube, it's helpful to know where -- but also how -- to look for them. A lot of this will depend on the topic you're teaching, as some topics might simply have more videos than others. A simple search for any given subject or topic could potentially give you hundreds -- if not thousands -- of results. Say you're an English teacher looking for a supplemental video with examples of figurative language -- the results are overwhelming.

Looking to refine your search results? Here are a few YouTube search tips to help you find the best educational videos for your class:

Try substituting different keywords in your search to elevate different videos to the top of the list. Use YouTube's more advanced search filters to narrow your results (look for the "filter" button at the top of your results). There are lots of filter options, including upload date, video type, duration, and even number of views. Look for channels from trusted sources and well-known educational content providers, then search within those channels. Does Common Sense Education have its own YouTube channel?

Yes! The Common Sense Education YouTube channel is chock full of great videos for both students and teachers. From digital citizenship videos for students to content just for teachers like tool reviews and live PD webinars, the channel has a lot to offer. While you're there, be sure to subscribe to get updates any time a new video is posted.

Are some YouTube videos inappropriate for school?

Unfortunately, yes -- many of the videos on YouTube are not appropriate for classroom use. On the flip side, there are also plenty of other videos that are great for classrooms -- it's just a matter of finding them (for more on this, see our tips above). Like many other sites with user-generated content, YouTube employs both human moderators and automated systems to comb through content that might break its community guidelines -- things like spam, nudity or sexual content, hate speech, violence, and more. However, keep in mind that many online platforms -- including YouTube -- rely heavily on automated moderation, which can sometimes mean that inappropriate videos slip through the cracks.

Just like with other online resources, there's only one way for teachers to ensure that content will be appropriate for any given lesson or activity: Always screen everything ahead of time, before class. And keep in mind that if you send your students to the platform on their own, inappropriate content may only be a click away. Also, be aware of YouTube's recommendation features which might display suggested videos -- some of which may or may not be appropriate -- next to, or immediately after, a video you're showing.

Is YouTube a social network?

The best answer is ... sort of. YouTube isn’t a social media platform in the way you might think of Facebook, Instagram, or even TikTok. At the end of the day, for most people, YouTube is mainly a place to find and watch videos. But it's also a place for creators to generate a following of subscribers, for viewers to follow the video creators they like, and even interact with creators through "likes" and comments on videos.

Instead of a social network, it's more useful to think of YouTube as something else -- a search engine. Believe it or not, YouTube is the world's second most popular search engine behind Google (of which YouTube is a subsidiary). The bottom line: YouTube is the go-to place to find and watch videos on the internet, whether you're engaging socially or not.

For classroom use, consider the following with regard to YouTube's more social media-like features, and how they might impact students' learning:

YouTube's content creators establish channels that they often want users to follow as "subscribers." All videos are open to "likes" and "dislikes" from users. Many (though not all) videos are open to comments from users -- these comments are often unmoderated, and are sometimes crude or inappropriate. Live chats are often attached to live-streaming videos, but pre-recorded videos tend to make up the bulk of YouTube's fare. As a teacher, if you're creating your own videos you'll have some options for how (or if) you'd like to use most of the platform's social features, as well as some privacy and visibility settings that might be useful. What are some creative ways teachers and students can use YouTube in the classroom?

Most of us use YouTube videos as lesson "hooks," or to review a key concept. But there are lots of other creative and innovative ways to use the platform in your teaching. Here are a few ideas, but that's not to say there aren't others out there! As always, be sure to consider the privacy implications before you ask students use YouTube themselves -- as viewers or creators -- or before you publish any videos featuring students or their schoolwork. See our section on YouTube and privacy below for more information.

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Create a YouTube channel for your class or school. By creating your own channel, you can invite students to create their own content, such as instructional videos, movie or book reviews, screencasts of their presentations, and more. You could even create a channel that serves as a collective digital portfolio of your class' work and accomplishments for the year. Flip your classroom. Advocates of the flipped-classroom model argue that time spent with students should be more interactive and promote higher-level thinking, and that other parts of instruction can happen via video. With this model, teachers might record and post a video for students to their YouTube channel ahead of in-person classroom time. This type of model could also be useful during periods of distance or remote learning, where students could watch your instruction asynchronously, then use shared class time for discussion and questions. Curate a playlist for a teaching unit or project. YouTube's playlist feature is a great way to gather, save, and share collections of videos you've found. For any given teaching unit, you could curate a list of relevant or related videos for students to watch. Creating a playlist on YouTube is fairly easy, and you can alter the playlist's visibility and sharing settings as necessary. For a student-centered alternative, consider challenging students to research and create their own playlists! Assign a video essay project. Video essays are an emerging genre on YouTube, and they challenge students to create multimodal video presentations in place of a traditional written essay. Relative to many other internet videos, video essays tend to be longer, carefully crafted productions, often making arguments about media and culture. To learn more, you can read Common Sense's article: Why and How to Use YouTube Video Essays in Your Classroom. Can teachers and students use YouTube to create their own videos?

YouTube is a great place for teachers to post lessons, read-alouds, or any other video that might be useful for students' learning. For information on getting started with your own YouTube channel, be sure check out YouTube's "Getting Started" page which has helpful tutorials and information on everything from building a channel and uploading videos to advice on how to create compelling videos.

For teachers, it'll be useful to understand some of YouTube's video settings, including the option to turn off comments, as well as some key privacy and visibility settings for your videos. Any time you post a video, think about settings that will be most appropriate for your video's goal:

"Public" is the default setting, and means that your video will be visible to anyone in the world and that it will show up in YouTube's search results. "Private" means that you'll need to invite others to view the video. But keep in mind that these users will need to have their own YouTube accounts to see the video, which is not always ideal in terms of accessibility for students, and especially tricky for students who are under 13. "Unlisted" means that the video won't show up in YouTube's search results, or on your channel page. However, anyone with the link to the video will be able to view it. Some teachers find this to be a good way to share videos with specific students or classes without making them "public" in the traditional sense. Are there teacher "influencers" on YouTube?

The answer probably depends on how you define "influencer." But, it's safe to say that a growing handful of enterprising teachers have found a niche in creating popular YouTube "influencer-like" channels and videos for other teachers, or even for students. Some focus on sharing classroom and lesson ideas, others might focus on tips for classroom technology, and others yet cover topics like classroom management along with what one might call "professional learning light."

4th Grade teacher Michelle Emerson's channel, "Pocketful of Primary" has over five hundred thousand followers and focuses on classroom management tips and ideas for building student relationships. Alice Keeler's channel, Teacher Tech focuses on -- you guessed it -- classroom technology, with a nod toward Google's education-focused tools. Fernanda Sandoval's channel, That One Happy Classroom offers a range of videos on topics like teacher confidence or getting back into the groove after vacation breaks, along with some reviews of classroom supplies.

Of course, not all teacher-YouTubers attain such huge followings or could be considered "influencers." Most teachers on YouTube are posting content that's simply useful, even if it hasn't gone viral with thousands upon thousands of views. A quick search on the platform can reveal videos on just about any education topic of interest.

How can you use YouTube to teach media literacy?

It's easy to think of YouTube simply as a colossal repository of videos to be found and watched. But it's important for teachers to also consider the role YouTube plays in young people's daily lives -- both as consumers and as creators.

Social media and content creation play a huge role in how young people communicate and interact with the world. This gives teachers lots of opportunities to help students analyze and think critically about the role of YouTube in our media landscape. There are lots of topics here to explore, and you can approach them from numerous angles. But for anyone interested in exploring YouTube from a media literacy lens, here are two topics of interest to get you started:

Influencer Culture: Many young people follow content creators who've amassed thousands, if not millions, of followers on YouTube. Talk to your students about what it means to be an "influencer" or YouTube star in today's world. This New York Times profile of Emma Chamberlain could provide a good starting point. By the age of 18, Chamberlain had dropped out of school to pursue her new career as a YouTube star. But this newfound fame took a physical and mental toll, as the demands of editing and producing content for an ever-hungry audience piled up. Related digital citizenship lesson plans: Curated Lives and Who's Looking at Your Digital Footprint.

Algorithms and Rabbit Holes: Like many online platforms, YouTube’s algorithm is designed to keep people on the site as long as possible, watching more and more video content. But have your students thought critically about how YouTube's recommendations appear, or how much they influence they may have on our viewing habits? When the algorithm identifies one of our interests, how far should it go toward suggesting other similar videos? How much do YouTube's suggestions bolster our perspectives, or lead us toward seeing the world from a narrow, or even misinformed perspective? Related digital citizenship lesson plans: Challenging Confirmation Bias and Filter Bubble Trouble.

Images courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

The Best Screencasting Tools for Classrooms

The Best Screencasting Tools for Classrooms — Tue, 31 Aug 21 02:00:00 -0700

The beauty of screencasting tools is how easy they are to use, whether your students create videos to demonstrate learning or you record your own lessons to share with them. It can be tricky, however, to determine the best screencasting tool for the classroom, as most options have a limited free version along with a paid subscription.

If you currently have access to a premium Zoom account or a Google Workspace for Education account (with Google Meet), the recording capabilities of those video-conferencing tools might be all you need. Take a look at this tutorial on screencasting with Zoom or this tutorial on screencasting with Google Meet to learn more about their features.

For those of you looking for a standalone screencasting tool, we've explored the options available and picked apart everything from price to ease of use. An overall winner emerged, but depending on your needs, one of the alternatives (or free plans) might be a good fit. Check out our favorites below to find the right screencasting tool for your classroom.

Our selection

This is the tool we feel best balances everything you'd want in a screencasting tool, including simple controls, useful editing features, and an attractive price.

Best overall: Screencastify

While it's only available on Chrome, out of everything we’ve looked at Screencastify offers the best balance of functionality and usability. Screencastify is an extremely polished experience; it’s so well designed that there’s not much you’ll need to get started. The developers have also done a great job of adding the core features most people would need without going overboard. They’ve also innovated, added unique things that set Screencastify apart. This is the case with the Submit feature. With Submit, teachers can generate a quick assignment and then share a URL to students. That link lets students hop right into a recording -- no sign in or account required. It’s super simple and efficiently stores all the recordings in Google Drive. It’s one of those tools that could become a core part of your classroom workflow.

Like many screencasting tools, Screencastify offers a free plan along with a subscription. The free version, unlike some of the others on this list, lets teachers do everything the paid version can do, but with limits. The big limitation is that recordings are capped at five minutes. Still, this means if you an work within the five-minute limit then you'll get more features and functionality than the free versions of other tools.

Paid plans (starting at $29 per year for educators and $49 per year for everyone else) release the five-minute cap and allow for unlimited Submit assignments (among other things).

Read our review of Screencastify.

Runner-up: Screencast-O-Matic

Screencast-O-Matic is the most full-featured platform on this list. With a full upgrade, you can record and edit videos as well as capture screenshots. It’s also available to just about anyone (Mac, Windows, iOS, Android, Chromebook); although, unlike others on the list, it’s a software application, not a web-based extension. The tricky thing with Screencast-O-Matic is that it’s not as slick of an experience as Screencastify and to make use of the best-in-class video editor you’re going to need to do a lot of learning. (You also might need to fight through some frustration.) But once you come out the other end, you’ll have a set of tools that can make videos (not just raw screencasts) at a level of sophistication not possible with other screen recording tools.

With the free plan, teachers and students can make screen recordings and do some editing. Free recordings are capped at 15 minutes (unlike Screencastify’s five-minute cap), but include a watermark. The paid plans open up a whole host of advanced video-editing features from drawing to green screens to blurring. There’s also a handy automated speech-to-text captioning feature.

Read our review of Screencast-O-Matic.

Other recommendations

These tools were also rated well and are worth a look depending on your needs.

Best option for simple screen recording: Vmaker

If you've got simple needs and just need to record basic screencasts, Vmaker is worth a look. The free version doesn't have a watermark and there aren't any recording limits. While you won't have drawing tools or much in the way of customization in this version, you can quickly and easily record a video (screen, webcam, or both screen and webcam) and then download or send it. And if you do find out you like Vmaker, you can upgrade to the paid version and get drawing tools, 4K video, and more.

Read our review of Vmaker.

Great free option for creating and sharing lessons: L oom

What earns Loom recognition on this list is that other people can comment on and discuss the screen recordings (without needing an account). The catch is that, with an Educator account, only teachers can record and share the recordings, so students won’t be creating. There are other consumer-focused accounts that allow multiple creators, however, if you’re fine with having students sign up for individual accounts. The Educator version is a great option, though, if you’re just looking to create lessons that might get students more engaged with the content.

Read our review of Loom.

Best for dynamic student presentations: Explain Everything Whiteboard

While not your typical screencasting tool, Explain Everything Whiteboard has everything students need to create lively presentations for iPad, Android, and Chrome and in a browser. Instead of recording their browser window, students start with a blank screen and pre-load slides, websites, images, videos, and more. Then, they record the slides as they speak, draw, and direct the presentation. The pre-loaded content guides students to plan ahead and arrange their thoughts before pressing the record button. It's a great model for building organizational skills.

The editing features can take some getting used to, especially for younger students, but once they've had some time to practice, the potential for creation and collaboration is off the charts.

Read our review of Explain Everything Whiteboard.

Others to consider

While we don't have full reviews of these tools, they're still worth checking out.

Easy and totally free option (if you have a Mac): QuickTime Player

QuickTime Player comes bundled with MacOS, so if you want a no-frills (and free) way to play and record audio and video, this is it. While there aren't many editing features embedded into the player, students can still record their screen or record through their webcam. Editing is limited to clipping, trimming, and rotating, but QuickTime Player gets the job done quickly.

Read our review of QuickTime Player.

For creating professional-looking videos: Camtasia

If your goal is to give students a platform for creating expert videos, Camtasia is one to watch. The particularly powerful video editor lets students add animations, sound effects, and even their own quizzes. It's not as easy to use as Screencast-O-Matic, and there's only a paid version, but it may give your advanced students the perfect place to demonstrate their talents.

Read our review of Camtasia.

See everything we've considered

The tools we've called out here are a small slice of everything we've looked at. If you prefer to do your own evaluation, find every tool we considered below.

These Top Picks lists feature every tool we think passes muster.

Best Classroom Tools for Presentations and Slideshows Websites and Apps for Making Videos and Animation Top Interactive Whiteboard Apps

You can also use our site's search to browse our full library of reviews.

Go to search Our criteria

To help organize our evaluation of screencasting tools, we looked at a few key features and functionality:

Ease of use. Design and engagement. Video-editing features. Customization options. Classroom extensions. Sharing capabilities. Price. Platform availability. Why trust us?: Our evaluation process

Our team of editors and reviewers (all current or former educators and/or researchers) have painstakingly looked at dozens of screencasting and presentation tools for this article, and narrowed down 11 of them for deeper evaluation and consideration. Each app goes through a rigorous evaluation process by both a reviewer and an editor. This involves hands-on testing (including, in some cases, in classrooms or other real scenarios), rating according to our research-backed 14-point rubric, communication with developers and other educators, and finally a written review. We also consult our vast library of from-the-field reviews submitted by practicing educators. All told, each app undergoes at minimum four to six hours of testing and evaluation.

More information on our ratings and reviews.

Is there something we missed? You can request a product for review using this form.

Teachers' Essential Guide to Showing Movies and Videos in the Classroom

Teachers' Essential Guide to Showing Movies and Videos in the Classroom — Tue, 24 Aug 21 13:04:00 -0700

So you want to stream a movie, TV show, or documentary as part of a lesson in your classroom? Great! Watching videos and interacting with visual media are engaging ways to help students learn.

But you probably have a lot of questions: Will my district allow me to show movies in my classroom? What are the best video streaming services for schools? How does copyright law apply to schools and classrooms? How can I find movies and videos that are appropriate for school? And of course, how can I help my students learn as much as possible from movies and videos?

The tips and suggestions in this article are here to help you. Plus, we've also curated a list of some of the best streaming platforms you can use to find movies, TV episodes, documentaries, and other videos that might be great for your classroom.

To top this off, if you're interested in how these streaming services compare in terms of user's data privacy, check out our report: Privacy of Streaming Apps and Devices: Watching TV That Watches Us.

Tips for Showing and Streaming Movies and Videos in Your Classroom Follow your school or district's policies.

First and foremost -- and we can't say this enough -- check to see if your school or district has policies about streaming or showing movies and video content in classrooms. Every school and district is bound to have its own policies, rules, and norms around using video content for learning. Bottom line: Ask an administrator or your technology department for guidance before you get started.

Use movies and videos to enhance students' learning.

Visual media can be great for learning, and not just because it's engaging! From a media literacy perspective, it's important for students of all ages to learn how to think critically about different types of media -- including movies and videos. Just as students learn to read and write, being media literate in today's world also demands that students can "read" visual and video-based media. Every time you show a movie, TV show, or video in your classroom, there are opportunities for this kind of learning to happen.

Movies, TV shows, and videos can also be an excellent way to bring diverse stories and voices into your classroom. Through both documentaries and fictional accounts, you can highlight the experiences and perspectives of people from under-represented groups. If you're searching for content to show, many of the streaming services listed below have curated lists, categories, and search functions to help you find movies, TV episodes, and videos that feature diverse perspectives.

If you're looking for more information about bringing media literacy into your classroom, we have tons of great resources and articles to help:

News and Media Literacy Resource Center -- Here you'll find the best news and media literacy resources from around the web, as curated by our editors. News and Media Literacy Digital Citizenship Lessons -- News and media literacy is one of the six core digital citizenship topics covered in our curriculum. Using Video Effectively in the Classroom -- Get tips for helping students become both active and reactive viewers of movies and videos. Why and How to Use YouTube Video Essays in Your Classroom -- Explore this unique genre of video on YouTube and see why they're great for learning. Why the Movie 8th Grade is Great for Digital Citizenship -- Use director Bo Burnham's hit film as a catalyst for talking about digital citizenship with your students. Inside Out and SEL: A Movie Guide and Lesson Plan for Your Classroom -- Help students reflect on the social and emotional aspects of the movie and consider how their own emotions work. Consider copyright and fair use.

In terms of copyright, if you have a subscription to an educational streaming service -- one specifically designed for classroom use -- you should be fine. But what about a streaming service that's not specifically meant for school use, meaning consumer services like Netflix or Amazon Prime Video?

The short answer is that these are probably OK, too, but it depends on how you use them. The longer answer? An exemption to the U.S. Copyright Law permits the use of streaming services and other performance displays in the course of face-to-face teaching activities in a nonprofit educational institution, classroom, or similar place devoted to instruction. In other words, you can show your students a movie in your classroom as long as it has an educational purpose. What you can't do is, say, show a movie from a streaming service in your gym or cafeteria and charge for admittance. That's a no-no.

So what about streaming a movie for students remotely? During distance learning, a lot of teachers may have wanted to show their students films and videos. Is that allowed? Technically speaking, the answer here isn't clear since the instruction wouldn't actually be face-to-face. As always, check with your school or district's administration to get their advice if this type of situation applies for you.

Watch out for technical issues.

You're bound to have some technical issues to contend with, and your school building's network speed and bandwidth are the most likely concerns, though internet filters could also be a problem. In terms of network speed, it's best to use a hard-wired connection (instead of Wi-Fi) to get the best streaming speeds.

When it comes to bandwidth, pay attention to how well video content tends to stream in your classroom during different parts of the day -- your success may depend on how many others are using up bandwidth on your school's network at the same time.

As much as possible, it's best to troubleshoot any potential technical issues that might come up before class starts. Your school's technology coordinator or IT department may also be able to help.

Be conscious of privacy and advertising.

It's important to be aware of data privacy any time you or your students use a digital tool in your classroom, including streaming or video content. In most cases, you'll be projecting a movie or video to the front of the classroom for all to see. If this is from a teacher (or school-owned device and account), then students' data privacy probably won't be a concern.

However, any time you're asking students to use a personal device –- whether it's school-owned or their own -- it's important to keep data privacy in mind. Remember that most online or streaming video services are likely collecting behavioral data from users, and these apps may not be COPPA compliant for use in schools. This is especially true when it comes to consumer-focused services -- like Netflix, Disney+, or Hulu, just to name a few.

Common Sense Media's analysis of the privacy practices of the most popular streaming apps showed that nearly all (with the exception of AppleTV+) have privacy practices that put consumers' privacy at considerable risk. This included selling data, sending third‐party marketing communications, displaying targeted advertisements, tracking users across other sites and services, and creating advertising profiles for data brokers. All of which are things you don't want happening to your students, especially because of a school assignment.

Also, be aware that some services run ads before and/or during videos. Of course ads are disruptive, but they're also a thorny ethical issue for schools and teachers. Should students ever be subjected to advertising in a learning environment? As always, it's best to follow the policies of your school or district. Note that a number of the education-specific streaming services listed below either don't have ads or offer ad-free school-wide (or district-wide) subscriptions.

Don't use your personal account, if possible.

You might be tempted to use your own personal subscription to stream videos in your classroom. This might be OK in some circumstances, but just be aware that a lot of these apps tailor and suggest content to each user. The movies and content you've watched in the past –- as well as content recommended just for you –- might pop up for anyone in your class to see, and it may not be appropriate for students. Bottom line: If you have a classroom-specific account, or if your school provides a shared account for teachers to use, it's probably best to go that route.

Find the best movies, TV shows, and videos for students' learning.

With so many options out there, finding the right movie, TV show, or video for your lesson or unit can be challenging, especially if you're looking for something that's classroom appropriate. Our colleagues over at Common Sense Media have reviews for many, if not most, of the TV shows and movies you might want to show. Keep in mind that these recommendations are aimed at parents and families -- not teachers -- but the age rating and content grid in each review can serve as a useful guide.

Streaming and Video Services for Classrooms

Because there are so many streaming services available, we've broken this list into three parts. You can jump to a section using the links below:

Consumer Streaming and Video Services Education Streaming and Video Services Library Streaming and Video Services

Keep in mind that the titles available on these services sometimes come and go as content libraries expand and change –- what you see on there one day might not be there the next.

Consumer and Streaming Video Services

Here are some of the best-known consumer video and streaming services, along with what you'll find on each. Keep in mind that these services aren't programming content with educators in mind. That said, you can often find great content that relates to your curriculum.

Amazon Prime Video

Movies, TV shows, documentaries, and sports for adults and children. The Kids section makes it easy to find programming for children. Movies and shows are categorized by age as well as by topics such as animals, learning, transportation, favorite characters, and more. For suggestions, see Common Sense Media's curated, age-based lists: Best Kids Movies on Amazon Prime Video and Amazon Originals on Prime Video. Price: Monthly or annual subscription.

Apple TV+

Movies, TV shows, documentaries, and sports content for adults and children. Kids programming includes topics such as emotional awareness, environmental issues, immigrant stories, critical thinking skills, and more. For suggestions, see Common Sense Media's curated, age-based list: Apple TV+ Series and Movies. Price: Monthly subscription.

Discovery+

Original and classic series with a focus on science, natural history, adventure, and more. Series include the BBC's large natural history collection, featuring shows like Planet Earth, Blue Planet, and Frozen Planet and popular shows from A&E, History, and Lifetime channels. Price: Monthly subscription (an upgraded ad-free subscription is also available).

Disney+

Movies, TV shows, and documentaries for adults and children. Find programming from some of the most well-known kids brands, including Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic. For suggestions, see Common Sense Media's curated, age-based list: Best Kids Movies on Disney Plus. Price: Monthly or annual subscription.

HBO Max

Movies, TV shows, and documentaries for adults and children. Numerous series cover topics such as science, history, animals, innovation, astronomy, and the oceans. For suggestions, see Common Sense Media's curated, age-based list: Best Kids Movies on HBO Max. Price: Monthly subscription.

Hulu

Movies, TV shows, documentaries, and sports for adults and children. Kids programming covers nature, space exploration, numbers and counting, painting and creativity, history, and food. Price: Monthly subscription.

Netflix

Movies, TV Shows, and documentaries for adults and children. Over the past few years, Netflix has developed a lot of original programming for kids, including documentaries on a variety topics, such as the Holocaust, bias in the tech industry, college admissions, drug use, and climate change. For suggestions, see Common Sense Media's curated, age-based lists: Best Kids Movies on Netflix, Best Kids TV Shows on Netflix, and Best Documentaries on Netflix. Price: Monthly subscription.

YouTube TV

Movies, TV shows, documentaries, and sports for adults and children. There are over 85 channels with lots of kids programming, including Nickelodeon, National Geographic, and PBS Kids. Price: Monthly subscription.

Wait, there's more!

Additional video streaming content providers include The Criterion Collection, Paramount+, Peacock, Pluto TV, Tubi, and Vudu, among others.

Education Streaming and Video Services

Most of these platforms are designed specifically for classroom use. While some are free, most are offered for a price. You'll see some familiar teacher favorites here, but also some lesser-known options for finding great educational video content for your classroom.

Brightstorm

Over 5,000 videos covering math, science, English, and test prep. All videos follow the same format: teachers giving video lessons on various topics. Many instructors graduated from top universities in the nation, including Harvard, Yale, Stanford, Cornell, and Columbia, among others. Price: Monthly, semi-annual, or annual subscriptions.

Grades: 9-12

Read our review of Brightstorm

BrainPOP

Moby and Tim "host" animated videos on this teacher favorite, helping kids learn about a wide range of challenging topics, such as genetics, geometry, and economics. Teachers can see students' quiz results, run a class-wide analysis, and give students feedback on their progress. Price: Monthly and annual subscriptions.

Grades: 4-8

Read our review of BrainPOP

Curiosity Stream

Created by the founder of the Discovery Channel, there are thousands of documentaries and nonfiction video programs covering STEM, history, innovation, world cultures, arts, and SEL. There's also a section curated just for kids. Price: Monthly and annual subscriptions.

Grades: K-12

Edpuzzle

While technically not a dedicated content provider, Edpuzzle is a useful tool that lets teachers and students use existing online videos, then crop and customize them with their voice-overs, audio comments, embedded assessment questions, and additional resources. Price: Both free and paid options.

Grades: 3-12

Read our review of Edpuzzle

Flocabulary

This platform delivers clever, educational hip-hop videos, songs, and supplemental activities covering topics from math and language arts to social studies, science, life skills, and, of course, vocabulary. Price: Free to try, with a paid subscription option.

Grades: K-12

Read our review of Flocabulary

GoNoodle

These fun collections of music videos, games, and activities offer opportunities for short bursts of physical exercise in the classroom -- aimed at helping kids focus and build brainpower. Price: Free

Grades: Pre-k-8

Read our review of GoNoodle

SchoolTube

Designed to be like a "YouTube for schools", the site has user-uploaded educational videos covering a variety of academic topics. Includes a dashboard where creators can see viewer engagement and analytics. Price: The free version has ads; the paid, the annual subscription is ad-free.

Grades: K-12

Read our review of SchoolTube

SIMA Classroom

SIMA calls itself the “Netflix of social impact education" with a curated collection of more than 200 short documentaries and VR experiences from 140 countries. Videos cover a variety of topics, from global human rights issues to the United Nations' sustainable development goals, social entrepreneurship, and more. Lesson plans are also offered. Price: Free to try; monthly and annual subscriptions available.

Grades: 6-12

Swank K-12 Streaming

This streaming platform designed with schools in mind has a library of over 20,000 feature films, foreign films, and documentaries. There are film curations available for elementary, middle, and high schools. Films include closed captioning, and alternate languages. Price: Paid

Grades: K-12

TED

Short video talks curated into topics of interest. You can explore the Topics tab or the Playlists to find content for students' learning. TED-Ed, a related free service offers animated educational videos and lesson materials for teachers. Price: Free

Grades: K-12

Read our reviews of TED and TED-Ed

Wait, there's more!

There are plenty of other educational video services that offer streaming and downloadable content for schools, including CosmoLearning, Critical Media Project, MathTV, and Mosa Mack Science among many, many more.

Library Streaming and Video Services

The two platforms below offer an excellent way to find free movies and videos through your local public or university library. Simply use your library card to stream content from any location.

Kanopy

Kanopy makes thousands of videos available for free through public and university libraries. To check out a movie or video, you'll just need a library card, and that library must subscribe to Kanopy. Categories include movies, documentaries, foreign films, classic cinema, independent films, and educational videos. Kanopy Kids is a curation of children's movies and shows, only available from public libraries. Price: Free with a library card.

Grades: K–12

Hoopla

Borrow movies, TV shows, music, audiobooks, ebooks, and more for free from public libraries that subscribe to Hoopla. All you'll need is a library card. You can use the categories or search filters to find a solid selection of content for your classroom. The KidZone is a section with children's movies. Price: Free

Grades: K-12

Math Worksheets That Are Actually Worth Printing Out

Math Worksheets That Are Actually Worth Printing Out — Fri, 06 Aug 21 06:00:00 -0700

Math worksheets have been a staple at school since mimeograph machines started staining teachers' hands. And for good reason: They give students the extra practice it often takes for mathematical concepts to stick.

Since lots of schools have adopted digital curricula, teachers may not be printing things as often. But when you do need to fire up the printer, you want to make all that paper count with worksheets that offer fresh approaches to arithmetic practice and math concepts.

Most readily available worksheets look pretty familiar; they're problem sets or common math activities kids can do on their own, and sometimes that's all you need. Sites like Education.com, Mashupmath, and Learning Resources have plenty of free worksheets filled with solid, standard fare. But it's the standout sites below that break that mold. The sites below offer quality over quantity and unique approaches to traditional math worksheets.

We've broken these down into three different types of worksheets that we hope you'll find useful. You can use the links below to jump to a section.

Real-World Math Worksheets: Students apply math concepts to actual circumstances or ideas. Co-Curricular Math Worksheets: Students' math work branches out into other content areas. Hands-On and Cooperative Math Worksheets: Students work collaboratively, beyond the paper worksheet. Real-World Math Worksheets

Since the dawn of time, kids have asked math teachers, "But am I ever going to use this in real life?" When kids see direct connections between what they're learning and their interests, they're naturally more invested in that learning.

But while there are plenty of "real-world" math worksheets out there, so many of them feel contrived (How many watermelons does Susie really need?). Even truly relevant applications -- like finances and measurement for home improvement -- don't work for everyone. In different ways, the selections below offer a more thoughtful spin on worksheets.

Yummy Math

Suggested grades: Elementary to high school.

Yummy Math offers free math worksheets, but you can also become a member for $25 and get the solutions, teacher tips, PowerPoint presentations, and Excel attachments. To find something for your classroom, you can search activities by grade level, genre, or by popularity. To see the math concepts that are covered, hover over the grade levels, then click on the standard you're looking for.

Using Yummy Math Worksheets If you search by genre, you can find resources in categories like Holidays and Annual Events, Climate Change, and Math and Food. There are also some co-curricular topics here like Math and Social Studies and Math and Art, which makes Yummy Math both relevant and a cool marriage between subjects. Note that some worksheets don't link to the sources students may need to solve the problems, like this one about air quality, but there are plenty of others that stand alone. Many of the worksheets aren't just relevant to many kids' interests and lives; they also sometimes have a personal touch, like incorporating their family dog or mother's matzo ball soup. There are several choices for sports lovers, and if you want to spark a discussion there are activities for that, too. Citizen Math

Suggested grades: Middle school to high school

Like Yummy Math, Citizen Math covers lots of relevant topics for kids and teens. The Citizen Math lessons are more polished than Yummy Math; however, only six are free. The four paid packages won't break the bank, though.

To find what you need, you can sort by grade or math concept -- once you click you'll see the covered concepts, real-world takeaways, math standards, and even where the lesson might fit best into your curriculum. The Teach Mode is like a presenter mode, so you can show an introductory video and relevant charts or graphs. However, those are extra bells and whistles; most lessons also allow you to simply use the printed handouts.

Using Citizen Math Worksheets: If you're wondering just how relevant the topics are, consider this: One of the free lessons uses integers to explore the importance of having a range of emotions. If you use the Teach Mode the lesson introduction comes with a clip from the movie Inside Out. Weaving SEL into a math lesson isn't something you see every day, and it punctuates just how applicable math really is. Add to that lessons about homelessness, the opioid crisis, and texting while driving, and it's easy to see why Citizen Math is a great resource for making math relevant. Other real-world math worksheets to check out:

If you work with younger kids it's a bit easier to find opportunities that apply math concepts to the world around them. That said, it's nice to have a few unique worksheets that go beyond the expected.

Kindergarten: Use these Sesame Street handouts and activities to introduce the concepts of saving, spending, and sharing. Grades 2-3: To make financial literacy a bit more personal, you could use this FitMoney handout to explore those concepts for slightly older students and then progress into applying addition and subtraction. Grades 3-5: For Snoopy fans, there's a series of activities from Young Minds Inspired that apply early math concepts to sports. Or, you could use an activity from the U.S. Census to compare amusement parks state by state. Grades 9-10: Since online investing has been all the rage with some teens, check out some of these stock market worksheets from Teachnology. Co-Curricular Math Worksheets

Sometimes you'll hear kids -- or even adults -- claim, "I'm not a math person." While they might feel they're more skilled in another subject, it can also mean, "My math spirit was crushed along the way, and I just needed someone to come at it from another angle." That's where a co-curricular approach to math can be useful. Incorporating math concepts into other subjects can give kids new perspectives and entry points. With the worksheets below, students who've decided they're “not a math person” might just find themselves able to understand concepts through the lens of another skill or subject.

Teachers2Teachers Global Math Stories

Suggested grades: Middle school to high school

Like Citizen Math and Yummy Math, Teachers2Tteachers (or T2T as it's also known) applies math to the real world. But the goal of T2T Global Math Stories is to foster a student-centered approach to teaching that encourages student confidence and leadership. Through conferences, teacher trips, master classes, and more, they work to help math teachers and students while including messages of social justice.

Using T2T Global Math Stories worksheets All of T2T's free worksheets embody the principles of their mission, offering a really unique way to use math. The worksheets are actually articles that share information about geological or cultural features of different places around the world, so they can tap into social studies and ELA topics with lots of opportunities for personal connections and interests. There's no print button, but it's easy enough to take the articles offline. Stories represent many continents and countries. For example, you can find facts about a national park in Ghana, weaving in Indonesia, goats in Morocco, and much more. Articles are divided into topical sections; in the sidebar, you may find a slideshow, an extension question, a social justice question, links to explore further, and an invitation to share your own story. Most relevant, however, are the math resources. These include math questions that relate specifically to the article and sometimes even other lessons and resources to use. What's missing, unfortunately, is a way to filter the activities by math concept, grade level, or reading level. So, you may have to do some exploring to find worksheets that'll work best for your class. Other co-curricular worksheets to check out: Grades 2-12: Though Yummy Math and Citizen Math are covered in the Real-World Math Worksheets section above, they also have some great crossover between subjects. Grades 3-5: Artful Maths offers some simpler activities like creating a Celtic Knot or an impossible object. Grades 6-8: For other options, especially ones that incorporate a bit of art, try these worksheets about Egyptian art or armor from Japan and Germany, courtesy of the Walters Art Museum. Their Common Core Connection series has quite a few worksheets to choose from. Hands-On and Cooperative Math Worksheets

Kids who learn best by doing -- or by working with others -- might get more out of activities that involve applying math to something beyond the worksheet itself. Because there's always so much to cover, it can feel hard to take the time to dive into these types of projects. That said, for students who might not do as well with more traditional methods, these math-related activities can be a rich and engaging way to learn. And for the littlest learners, encountering concepts through activities and play is always ideal.

DREME Family Math

Suggested grades: PreK-1st grade

DREME -- Development and Research in Early Math Education -- is a project developed by researchers from around the country and based out of Stanford University that offers resources to help weave math into kids' lives at home. For educators, they offer tips and information about teaching early math concepts, along with suggested activities to share with families. Some of those tips are all about making math a part of everyday conversations, some are suggestions for games, and some are even recipes!

Using DREME Worksheets: For the most part, DREME worksheets aren't the kind that kids complete in class. Instead, they're primarily resources to send home -- many in English and Spanish -- to help kids apply math in daily life. The games and cooking activities could also be useful in the classroom. Though it may not be feasible for teachers to actually cook something in class, making a smoothie or personal fruit pizza is more possible. You can also take inspiration from DREME's Math Snacks to integrate math conversations throughout the school day. Other hands-on and cooperative worksheets to check out: Grades 1-2: If you want to get kids moving around and talking to each other, a worksheet that gets them to collect data works well (from Engage NY). With simple questions like, "What snack do you like best?" this worksheet provides an easy entry point for 1st and 2nd graders that adds some cooperation. Grade 3: Scholastic offers a set of LEGO Batman activities. So, if you don't mind a bit of product placement, these worksheets can help get kids working -- and thinking together. Grade 6-8: If you work with slightly older kids who are ready for a bit more challenge, check out these math lab worksheets from Teachnology. For instance, the Light My Stadium lab gets kids working together on a fictional, but realistic, math problem. Even more math worksheet approaches to consider:

Although these worksheets don't fall neatly into any of the above categories, they have some interesting approaches that are worth checking out.

Grade 1: For instance, this worksheet from Engage NY asks students to look at how other kids solved the problems, which comes at the concept from a slightly different angle. Grades 4-5: And when it comes to algebraic reasoning, ramping up to variables with friendly symbols can make the math less intimidating (from Mash Up Math).

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Supporting SEL in Students' Digital Lives: Tips and Advice for Teachers

Supporting SEL in Students' Digital Lives: Tips and Advice for Teachers — Mon, 02 Aug 21 10:05:00 -0700

What does it mean to support students socially and emotionally in the online academic and social spaces where they exist? Our Digital Citizenship Curriculum has always been focused on the social and emotional lives of students within their digital spaces, but the connections to SEL competencies haven't always been clear. This is why we’ve created our Social and Emotional Learning in Digital Life Resource Center.

The competencies for social and emotional learning are essential to helping kids understand the digital citizenship skills they need in authentic ways. From communicating in online relationships to combating cyberbullying with social awareness, or being self-aware as they develop an online identity, social and emotional learning concepts are everywhere in digital citizenship. Not to mention, digital citizenship lessons can help students reflect on their media use, how it makes them feel, and its impacts on their emotional health.

Our simple, 15-minute SEL in Digital Life activities are CASEL-aligned and easy to integrate into your daily plans and lessons. The tips, advice, and professional development resources below are also here to help you consider other ways to incorporate SEL and digital citizenship. What's more, completing two of the workshops below can be your first step in completing our Common Sense Education Recognition Program.

Embed SEL Into Your Digital Citizenship Lessons SEL and Digital Citizenship (30-minute webinar)

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Common Sense team members Barbara Huth and Tali Horowitz present this session to highlight how you can use the Common Sense Digital Citizenship curriculum to teach Social Emotional Learning skills. While the session was presented during distance learning, most (if not all) of the tips they share are also very relevant for in-person instruction. They also model the use of a Digital Dilemma scenario, and share some tips on how teachers can find media balance in their own lives while supporting students to do the same.

Support Student Relationships SEL: Supporting Students From a Distance (30-minute webinar)

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Kat Crawford from the Center for Educational Excellence in Alternative Settings shares some of the practical ways she incorporates technology tools to support student relationships. Though she shares strategies in the context of distance learning, these same principles can be applied to any classroom to support student relationships. From screencasting and interactive tools to mindfulness and community-building activities, there's a lot here to learn.

Create a Positive Classroom Culture Supporting Students Receiving Special Education Services (30-minute webinar)

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Special education teachers are often masters at meeting the social and emotional needs of their students, and all educators can learn from their expertise in this area. In this webinar, Amanda Morin and Tory Wadlington offer tips on creating an environment that's soothing, both in physical classrooms and in virtual settings, and discuss the importance of building great relationships with parents and families.

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Wellness Ideas for Teachers and Students Social and Emotional Wellness for Everyone (60-minute webinar)

Presenter Ana Moreno offers a wealth of ideas for integrating emotional wellness into your everyday routines. From using edtech tools like Flipgrid to help students share their perspectives, to using SEL question cards and putting classroom relationships at the center of your practice, there are helpful tips here for just about anyone.

Use Digital Tools that Support Emotional Intelligence Emotional Intelligence Apps and Games (Top picks list)

Looking to provide your students with more responsive instruction? This list has dozens of age-appropriate apps and games that can help your students self-assess and communicate how they're feeling. For example, a tool like Breathe, Think, Do with Sesame is designed for the youngest learners to them learn how to handle frustrating situations. The Mood Meter can help students self-reflect as they track their emotions. Smiling Mind offers a free, quick introduction to meditation practice that can be introduced into most any classroom. Explore the list to find the best tools for your classroom.

Prepare Your Students for Social Media Social Media Test Drive (interactive simulation)

In this simulation, students have opportunities to test out what they would do and how they might feel when faced with a variety of tricky digital dilemmas. The creators at Cornell University’s Social Media Lab aligned the game modules to the skills in Common Sense's digital citizenship lessons, and placed them in the context of realistic social media platforms. Modules include, Healthy Social Media Habits, The Ups and Downs of Social Media, and How to be an Upstander. An educator’s guide is included to help teachers get started.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Teachers' Essential Guide to Social and Emotional Learning in Digital Life

Teachers' Essential Guide to Social and Emotional Learning in Digital Life — Mon, 02 Aug 21 08:00:00 -0700

Media and technology are central to how young people learn, socialize, and participate in the world. This makes it all the more important to consider how our student’s digital lives can impact their social and emotional well-being. We've prepared this guide to help you navigate this world where digital citizenship and social and emotional learning are deeply intertwined.

Read on to find answers to teachers' most commonly asked questions about social and emotional learning (SEL) as well as information on how it connects to the digital lives of your students. To see our full collection of K-12 SEL activities visit our SEL in Digital Life Resource Center.

Use these links to jump to any section below:

What is social and emotional learning? Why is social and emotional learning important? How can I teach SEL and digital citizenship to my students? Are there learning standards for SEL? How does technology impact social and emotional learning? What are the connections between digital citizenship and SEL? What are examples of SEL skills and dispositions that are unique to digital life? What are some best practices for teaching SEL? How can I teach SEL in an equity-oriented way? How can my school align its digital citizenship and SEL strategies?

What is social and emotional learning?

Social and emotional learning (SEL) is the process that all individuals go through as they develop the intrapersonal and interpersonal skills that will help them thrive -- in their own lives, as members of their communities, and in the world at large.

Why is social and emotional learning important?

Very simply, students need social and emotional learning skills to succeed in school and in life. Research has shown that school-wide implementations of SEL can lead to improved academic performance, decreased conflict between students, and can help students feel more invested in their school communities.

How can I teach SEL and digital citizenship to my students?

Our SEL in Digital Life Resource Center has everything you'll need to get started with social and emotional learning in the digital world. In the resource center, you'll find CASEL-aligned short activities, teaching guides, professional development resources, and family engagement materials.

Because engaging families and caregivers is such an essential piece of successful SEL implementation, we've included a set of conversation starters you can send to your students’ grown-ups so that they can practice what they learned in school at home.

Are there learning standards for SEL?

The SEL framework developed by the Collaborative for Academic, Social and Emotional Learning (CASEL) is widely used by educators as a resource to help bring SEL to their classrooms and schools. Some states, such as Wisconsin, have drafted a statewide framework and guidance for teaching SEL. Unfortunately, as of yet, most states and the federal government haven't developed this kind of detailed guidance. Because of this, the implementation of social-emotional learning can vary widely across school sites.

All of the resources created by Common Sense Education, including our SEL in Digital Life activities, are aligned to the CASEL framework and five core competencies for social and emotional learning:

Self-Awareness Self-Management Responsible Decision-Making Relationship Skills Social Awareness How does technology impact social and emotional learning?

Whether for learning or socializing, young people will undoubtedly face social and emotional challenges that are unique to using technology in their daily lives. For example, we can relate to how media use -- and often too much of it -- can have a direct impact on our emotional well-being. But the social and emotional challenges that students face when they use technology go beyond the individual.

For instance, communicating on digital platforms can make it more likely for people to be mean. And in a recent survey from Common Sense, the frequency with which young people reported encountering hateful content online was substantially higher today than it was in 2018. Unfortunately, the research also found that the young people most likely to encounter this kind of content are also those who are most likely to be the targets of online hate.

These unique types of challenges highlight the importance of teaching digital citizenship and SEL in an integrated way.

What are the connections between digital citizenship and SEL?

It might be common for teachers and schools to teach only SEL or only digital citizenship, or to teach them both, but separately. But it's important to know that SEL and digital citizenship can be very impactful when taught together. While the two content areas aren't interchangeable, they can definitely complement one another other.

It's best to think of digital citizenship as a specific context where social and emotional learning can take place. Digital citizenship calls attention to the unique challenges that students encounter when navigating the digital world. At the same time, it highlights the unique sets of skills and dispositions that students can use to navigate these challenges in a safe and responsible way. And when students put digital citizenship into practice, they're effectively using social and emotional strategies to address the uniqueness of their digital lives.

Digital citizenship helps SEL be more effective by making SEL more responsive to the demands and opportunities that technology brings into student’s lives.

What are examples of SEL skills and dispositions that are unique to digital life?

Technology's impact on students' social and emotional well-being can vary across age and levels of development. It's important to help your students learn the skills that are most important to them, whether it's understanding how devices affect their feelings or how social media impacts their friendships, just to name a few.

The table below outlines the K-12 SEL skills and dispositions covered in the Common Sense SEL in Digital Life activities. You can also click to open the table in a Google Doc.

What are some best practices for teaching SEL?

The best way to teach SEL is to implement a formal curriculum that also includes opportunities for family engagement. Unfortunately, many schools and districts across the country don't have a clear program for teaching SEL. This type of uneven implementation can have unintended consequences and exacerbate educational disparities, especially among students of color.

If there isn't a formal SEL curriculum or strategy at your school, you can still teach SEL! As you start, it's important to implement SEL strategies that follow a culturally responsive pedagogy. Our SEL in Digital Life activities are a great way to get started, but also keep the following tips in mind:

Be sure to define what an equity-centered approach to SEL looks like in your classroom or school community. Collaborate with your colleagues to develop a joint understanding of how you're addressing students' social and emotional learning. This is particularly important when aligning on strategies for sensitive issues like conflict resolution and student discipline. Establish a positive classroom culture early on by engaging students in conversations about how they want to feel when they're learning, playing, and working together. Check in with students periodically to reflect on how well your classroom and community are working together toward achieving a positive classroom culture. How can I teach SEL in an equity-oriented way?

When teaching SEL it is important that your focus goes beyond classroom management and student discipline. Dena Simmons, a scholar and practitioner who specializes in SEL and equity, explains that social emotional learning interventions that focus squarely on these two areas can end up reinforcing “failure narratives”. When unchecked, these negative narratives can feed educators' implicit biases and lead them to believe that some students, often students of color, need more SEL skills to regulate their behavior and emotions as compared to their peers. The impact of this cycle of negative narratives and implicit biases can be harmful and result in unequal disciplinary outcomes, or in students of color internalizing a negative self-image.

To learn more about how to make your approach to SEL more equity-centered, you can read more of Dr. Simmons’s work on this topic. Our team has also curated a helpful list of the best social- and cultural-literacy resources from around the web, which could be useful as you develop an SEL implementation strategy.

How can my school align its digital citizenship and SEL strategies?

A set of policy recommendations drafted by the Committee for Children suggests it is important to align digital citizenship to ongoing SEL initiatives and to make clear how SEL strategies are foundational to how digital citizenship is taught to students.

How you align digital citizenship to SEL might look different depending on whether you are a teacher or an administrator:

If you're a teacher interested in addressing digital citizenship and SEL in your classroom, you can get started by using the resources in our SEL in Digital Life Resource Center. For a more in-depth implementation, you can use our free Digital Citizenship Curriculum where every K-12 lesson is aligned to CASEL's SEL framework. If you're an administrator or curriculum specialist looking to develop an initiative that clearly connects SEL and digital citizenship, one of the most useful resources you'll find is the Online Safety & Social and Emotional Learning page maintained by Wisconsin’s Department of Public Instruction. Their team developed a useful infographic, as well as a curriculum crosswalk that outlines the connection between SEL and the state’s information and technology literacy standards.

Elementary School Activities to Promote SEL in Digital Life

Elementary School Activities to Promote SEL in Digital Life — Mon, 02 Aug 21 06:20:00 -0700

This collection of activities will help you address the unique social and emotional challenges your students may encounter as technology starts to play an increasing role in their lives, both in and out of school. From understanding how technology makes them feel, to learning how to act with kindness and make caring and responsible decisions online, these 15-minute activities are great ways to support the social and emotional well-being of your students as they navigate the digital world.

To see our full collection of K–12 activities visit the SEL in Digital Life Resource Center.

My Feelings When Using Technology (Grades K–2) With a fun video poem and class discussion, students learn to reflect on the different ways technology makes them feel and what they can do about it.

Our Responsibilities Online (Grades 3–5) What does it mean to be your best self when using technology? By learning about the rings of responsibility, students understand the responsibilities they have to themselves and others so they can be their best selves when using technology.

Saying Goodbye to Technology (Grades K–2) Whether it's watching television or playing on a tablet, using tech can be super fun! But kids often find it hard to transition from an online activity to an offline one. Teach your students a simple routine for regulating their emotions during those inevitable digital interruptions that are a part of life for everyone.

My Media Balance (Grades 3–5) Helping kids learn what makes different media choices healthy or not is a good start. But how do we guide them to actually make responsible choices in the real world? Give your students the opportunity to reflect on their media habits and develop strategies for achieving media balance in their lives.

Traveling Safely Online (Grades K–2) The power of the internet enables students to experience and "visit" places they might not be able to see in person. But just like traveling in the real world, it's important for students to know how to keep themselves safe when they go online. In this quick activity, students learn three rules to promote safe and responsible decisions when going online.

How Can You Be an Online Superhero? (Grades 3–5) Online tools are empowering for kids, but they also come with big responsibilities. In this quick activity, students put themselves in the shoes of the Digital Citizen characters to learn how to solve digital dilemmas in responsible ways.

Use Your Heart When You're Online (Grades K–2) From our head down to our toes, and our feet up to our nose, the Digital Citizens teach students to be safe, responsible, and respectful when they are online. Gaming with Positivity (Grades 3–5) Social interaction is part of what makes online gaming fun and engaging for kids. Of course, online communication comes with some risks. Use this activity to help your students reflect on how they can keep their gaming experiences fun, healthy, and positive.

Standing Up to Online Meanness (Grades K–2) The internet is filled with all kinds of interesting people, but sometimes people can be mean to each other. With this activity, students learn how to respond to people who are being unkind, and support others who experience online meanness. The Words We Choose (Grades 3-5) As kids grow, they naturally start to communicate more online. But some of what they see could make them feel hurt, sad, angry, or even fearful. Help your students build empathy for others and learn strategies to use when confronted with cyberbullying.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Middle School Activities to Promote SEL in Digital Life

Middle School Activities to Promote SEL in Digital Life — Mon, 02 Aug 21 06:10:00 -0700

In middle school, kids begin their exploration of identity in earnest, and they often experience the pressures of increased expectations. Technology makes these experiences a little more challenging to navigate, especially as social media becomes the primary way they communicate and share with peers.

This set of 15-minute activities will help you lead meaningful conversations with your students about working through the challenges that come with living in an ever-connected world. For the full collection of K–12 activities visit our SEL in Digital Life Resource Center.

Oversharing and Your Digital Footprint (Grades 6–8) Social media can be a place to connect, learn, and, most of all, share. But do kids know how social media can influence how they feel and act online? Help students think critically about how the pressure to share on social media can affect their emotions, their behavior, and how other people see them online.

Checking Our Digital Habits (Grades 6–8) We use digital media every day, from texting, streaming TV shows, and gaming all the way to using voice assistants or ordering our food online. For today's kids, it's a lot more than just "screen time." Through this quick activity, students reflect on their media use to identify a strategy for achieving balance in their online and offline lives.

Who Are You Talking to Online? (Grades 6–8) Games, social media, and other online spaces give kids opportunities to meet and chat with others outside their real-life communities. But how well do kids actually know the people they're meeting and interacting with? Help students be discerning about the people they talk to online, the types of information they share, and the decisions they make when talking to others online.

Friendships & Social Media (Grades 6–8) For most middle schoolers, being on social media can mean connecting with friends, sharing pictures, and staying up to date. But it can also mean big-time distractions, social pressures, and more. Help students reflect on both the positive and negative aspects of social media and how to use it in ways that build healthy and positive relationships.

Dealing with Digital Drama (Grades 6–8) Miscommunication is a common occurrence online and on social media. Plus, the anonymity of being online makes it easier for someone to say things they wouldn't say in person. In this quick activity, students practice taking different perspectives to identify strategies they can use to de-escalate digital drama.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

High School Activities to Promote SEL in Digital Life

High School Activities to Promote SEL in Digital Life — Mon, 02 Aug 21 06:00:00 -0700

For high schoolers, technology can be an incredibly positive influence as they use it to expand their social circles, explore their interests, and even find causes that bring purpose to their lives. But it can also present unique dilemmas around protecting their online reputations, establishing boundaries and maintaining healthy relationships, and knowing how to respond to divisive and hateful content online.

These 15-minute activities support the social and emotional well-being of your students as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of the digital world. For the full collection of K–12 activities visit our SEL in Digital Life Resource Center.

Who Are You on Social Media? (Grades 9–12) Social media gives us a chance to choose how we present ourselves to the world. We can snap and share a pic in the moment, or carefully stage photos and select only the ones we think are best. When students reflect on these choices, they can better understand the self they are presenting and the self they aim to be.

Screen Time: How Much Is Too Much? (Grades 9–12) We are spending more and more time on devices and often feel pressure to constantly be connected. But how much screen time is too much? In this activity, students will identify how their use of technology can affect their physical and emotional health, and develop strategies for achieving healthy media balance.

Perspectives on Posting (Grades 9–12) Tagging friends on social media is a great way to connect with others and capture memorable experiences. But should everything you say or do be posted or tagged online? Encourage your students to think about how what they post online can affect not only their digital reputations but also that of their friends.

Friendships & Boundaries Online (Grades 9–12) "It's complicated" can describe many of our relationships with others. Add digital devices and social media to the mix, and things get complicated even further. Use this activity to help students understand how technology can affect their friendships so they can take steps toward building and maintaining healthy relationships both online and offline.

The Impacts of Online Hate Speech (Grades 9–12) As humans, we thrive on social connections and group associations. But this tendency can also lead us to be suspicious of people outside our group. With this activity, students reflect on how encountering hate speech online affects themselves and others, and then identify ways to combat hate speech online.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Learning from Conflict: Discussing Controversial Issues in the Classroom

Learning from Conflict: Discussing Controversial Issues in the Classroom — Thu, 29 Jul 21 02:00:00 -0700

When highly charged events happen in the world, it’s not always easy for classroom teachers to help their students make sense of things. But whether it’s raw emotions that surface during civil unrest or the human suffering associated with natural disasters, students benefit from constructive discussions about sensitive issues.

In fact, research shows that discussing conflicts is good for students both cognitively and developmentally. This research holds that learning takes place under these conditions:

All students have ample opportunities to explore and explain various views through perspective-taking approaches. Teachers ensure that different points of view are listened to, and then confronted. Teachers encourage controversy while stressing cooperative contexts. Perspective Taking Activities for Students

To introduce a controversial issue that’s in the news, I begin with a common text where I model summary skills to the whole class and add pertinent background information. On particularly complex issues, the next step might be for the class to engage in the "Circle of Viewpoints" Visible Thinking routine from Harvard's Project Zero, which encourages students to consider diverse perspectives by envisioning the questions that different stakeholders might have.

For example, incidents where people of color -- including young people of color -- have been killed by police have been prominent in the news. During class, I've used the "Circle of Viewpoints" routine to have students try to imagine these tragedies from the various perspectives of community members, for example a sibling of one of the victims, the son or daughter of a law enforcement official, a local business owner, a neighborhood activist, etc. An activity like this helps students move beyond their initial bias about the issue and see things from a broader perspective.

Finding and Analyzing Media Texts

The texts and multimedia stories I use for the activity described above often come from the Discussions section of KQED Learn, a program that aims to build students' civic engagement and digital literacy.

For example, the KQED Learn discussion titled Should the U.S. have Universal Healthcare? has stories from nine different sources offering a mix of perspectives on the issue, such as the OECD, Harvard Health, and the Heritage Foundation. The sources themselves offer a mix of video, text, infographics, and data sets which would integrate well with informational writing units.

Another site I use in my class is ProCon.org, which aims for an informed citizenry by presenting multiple sides of controversial issues in a nonpartisan format. For media literacy teaching resources, you can go to the Media Education Lab's Teaching Resources page, and of course Common Sense Education's Digital Citizenship Curriculum. If you're looking to help students decode political language, check out the Teen Fact-Checking Network from Poynter and Media Wise, as well as FactCheck.org and PolitiFact.

When exploring conflict, students learn best when they rely on others for crucial information; it has also been shown that students learn least when they avoid conflict altogether or merely acquiesce. Confrontation in a Cooperative Context

Sociocognitive conflict research shows that students learn better when teachers create resource interdependence, where members of the class receive only part of the total information and access the rest through other class members. This is opposed to resource independence, where students have access to all the information before the discussion and so possess identical texts. When exploring conflict, students learn best when they rely on others for crucial information; it has also been shown that students learn least when they avoid conflict altogether or merely acquiesce.

One such powerful cooperative approach to controversial issues is known as constructive controversy, where students are given articles that take different positions on a pro-con type issue and then go through the following process: 1. prepare a persuasive case for their position, 2. present their position in a compelling and interesting way, 3. refute the opposing position while rebutting criticisms of their position, 4. take the opposing perspectives, and 5. derive a synthesis or integration of the positions with a partner who began arguing from the opposite perspective. For details, see Johnson and Johnson’s book, Creative Controversy: Intellectual Challenge in the Classroom.

We need to be prepared to show [our students] how to have constructive discussions that represent differing perspectives, and then show them ways to effect positive change in their world.

As a result of the activities described above, it’s possible that your students will want to take some kind of action or become politically involved in a cause. A way to start is to help students think about audience. One thing I do is show my students how to write a letter to an elected official. Sometimes, this literally takes on the form of a letter sent via the U.S. mail; other times, it results in a more open video statement from students to elected officials and stakeholders in general.

The issues we and our students deal with can be complex and overwhelming. We need to be prepared to show them how to have constructive discussions that represent differing perspectives, and then show them ways to effect positive change in their world.

Whale Rider and SEL: A Movie Guide and Lesson Plan for Your Classroom

Whale Rider and SEL: A Movie Guide and Lesson Plan for Your Classroom — Tue, 27 Jul 21 07:21:00 -0700

In middle school, students begin their exploration of identity in earnest, and they often feel the pressures of increased expectations. They're also in the intense, early stages of transition between child and young adult -- as middle school teachers know first hand! While the movie Whale Rider is set in New Zealand and reflects Māori traditions and culture, it's relatable to kids everywhere. The film connects with universal themes of adolescence, and tackles topics like loss, courage, self-worth, and community.

The story follows Paikea (Pai), who has disappointed her community by being born a girl. Despite experiencing loss and the narrow expectations set for her, Pai listens to her instincts, pursues learning, and brings her community together with courage. Though, at times, the movie dips into the misleading cliche that "If you only try hard enough you can overcome anything," Pai's story is ultimately much more complex. In this way, Whale Rider shows students that the world doesn’t always bend to effort and willpower, but even so, standing firm in one’s principles and having self worth is very powerful.

Things to Know Before You Show Whale Rider to Your Students

This guide offers two different approaches to teaching Whale Rider:

Show a few specific clips along with discussion questions. Show the entire film with a more in-depth lesson plan and handout.

Feel free to use either approach, or even combine the two into one lesson (or an entire unit) based around the movie. If you only have a single class period, showing just a few key clips below might be perfect. If you decide to help students delve deeper into the topic, you might show the entire film and have more extensive discussions over multiple days. Of course, you could also use some combination of the two, adapting the lesson to best suit your class's needs.

Content warning: There are a few scenes to be aware of before showing the movie. You know your classroom and community norms best -- use your professional judgment to decide how you'll address these, if necessary.

At the 38:00, Koro tells the boys that the consequence of not learning a chant is that their "dicks will fall off" so they should "hold onto their dicks." At 56:27, Uncle Rawiri is napping with a bag of cannabis and a pipe on his chest. Scattered throughout the film, there are scenes of adults drinking beer and smoking. At 32:50, there's a scene in which a boy is smoking. Lesson Objectives

This lesson is designed to align with the CASEL 5 competencies for social and emotional learning as well as various Thinking Routines from the Harvard Graduate School of Education's Project Zero.

Use this lesson to help students consider how they can:

Exhibit self-discipline and self-motivation. Show the courage to take initiative and experience self-efficacy. Demonstrate personal and collective agency. Integrate their personal and social identities. Identify their personal, cultural, and linguistic assets. Examine their own prejudices and biases. Identify diverse social norms, including unjust ones. Understand the influences of organizations and systems of behavior. Anticipate and evaluate the consequences of their actions. Reflect on their role in promoting personal, family, and community well-being. Whale Rider Clips and SEL Discussion Questions for Students

If you only want to show brief parts of the film and discuss them with students, use these helpful clips to get you started. You can also use these in conjunction with the longer lesson plan below.

The time stamps can help you pick and choose your areas of focus. Use as few or as many clips as you see fit, but keep in mind that you may need to introduce the movie's overall plot and talk through some of what happens before or after each clip.

Clip #1: Porouragi is angry that Koro, his father, seems to care only about having a grandson instead of acknowledging his loss. Koro is also upset about his granddaughter’s name -- Pai. (4:23-5:52)

Discuss: Both men are experiencing intense feelings. What is Porouragi feeling? What about Koro? Why does Porouragi finally leave the conversation?

Clip #2: Nanny’s son (and Pai’s uncle) asks Nanny if Koro's disappointment in him started right at birth. Nanny says, "You're a man. You can handle it." (7:23-7:34)

Discuss: What does it mean when Nanny says, "You're a man. You can handle it?" What expectations does it imply?

Clip #3: Pai explains that her father stopped carving his boat after she was born, and says, "He went away. Everybody did." (15:04-15:25)

Pai's dad travels around the world as an artist while she stays with his parents in New Zealand. Then she mentions the unfinished boat and says everyone went away. What do you think she means? How are the two ideas -- the unfinished boat and people leaving -- related to each other?

Clip #4: Koro tells Pai about the origin of their ancestors using a rope. When it breaks, Pai fixes it but it makes Koro mad. (17:00-19:28)

Pai wants to know about the history of her people. Why do you think this is important to her? What do you know about your family's or culture's history that adds to your sense of self? Why is Koro angry when Pai fixes the problem? Is it really because he's worried for her safety? Koro uses the rope as a metaphor to explain how community makes people stronger. What's another comparison that conveys the same idea?

Clip #5: Koro wants Porouragi to stay and be a mentor to the boys in the village, but Porouragi doesn't feel seen or understood. Koro says to Porouragi: "I know who you're meant to be, who you were born to be." (22:10-24:06)

When Koro says, "I know who you're meant to be, who you're born to be," he clearly has expectations for Porouragi. How does Porouragi feel about those expectations? Is having expectations for someone a good thing, a bad thing, or does it depend?

Clip #6: Porouragi and Pai talk about how Koro wants a prophet, and that neither of them can be what he wants. (24:38-27:47)

Both Porouragi and Pai know they disappoint Koro, and it makes them sad and angry. How can caring about someone else's expectations for you be positive, negative, or somewhere in between?

Clip #7: Pai is leaving with her father, but she tells him to stop and take her back. At the same time, we see a whale surfacing. (30:37-32:13)

Why do you think the moviemakers show the whale around the same time Pai decides she wants to go back?

Clip #8: Pai shows up at the school gathering of boys Koro arranged. Because she’s a girl, Koro wants Pai to sit in the back but she doesn’t. (34:10-37:19)

Even though Pai loves and respects her grandfather, she chooses to disobey him. Why?

Clip #9: Pai gets secret lessons from Hemi about the Taiaha, a weapon. Koro finds them and tells Pai, "I'll deal with you later." (38:39-41:02)

Pai chooses to disobey Koro's rules so she can learn what the boys are learning. Can you think of other examples -- from the present or the past -- when learning and knowledge was only allowed for certain people? Despite Koro's rejection, Pai stands firm. How do you think she's able to do that?

Clip #10: Nanny says, "He's got a lot of rules he's got to live by." Nanny hints to Pai that Uncle Rawiri can teach her the Taiaha. (43:02-44:32)

Nanny says Koro has lots of rules to live by. Since no one is telling him what to do, and he makes the rules for everyone else, we know those rules he's living by come from inside him. What expectations or rules do you have for yourself? Just because we have expectations for other people doesn't mean they'll live up to them. So what can we control?

Clip #11: Koro discovers Hemi and Pai fighting with Taiaha. Koro asks Pai: "What have you done?" Hemi defends Pai, but Koro tells her she's ruined the school. (49:33-54:15)

Why is Hemi sad? What does he want? Why does he start using his Taiaha when Pai finds him? Traditions and beliefs are often sacred to people, so to have them disrupted can make things feel broken or ruined. Is there a way to respect traditions and beliefs and still make room for people like Pai?

Clip #12: After Pai dives down to get Koro's necklace (rei puta) she says it's quiet down deep and that Nanny says Koro needs quiet and isn’t ready to know she found the necklace. (1:03:48-1:06:37)

It is literally quiet down deep in the ocean, but what else does Pai mean? Are there ways that you sometimes go down deep, into the quiet? Why doesn't Nanny think Koro is ready to know Pai is the one who found the rei puta?

Clip #13: Pai gives her award-winning speech and starts to cry because Koro isn't there. Meanwhile, Koro was headed to the concert but goes to the beach instead and sees a pod of beached whales. (1:11:14-1:15:34)

What parts of Pai's speech caught your attention? Why? Throughout history, leaders have been born, chosen, and made in all kinds of ways. What do you think it means to be a leader?

Clip #14: The villagers go down to the whales, and Koro asks, "Who is to blame?" The villagers fail to move the whale. Later, Pai climbs onto the whale, who begins to move. Nanny gives Koro his necklace. (1:16:07-1:30:40)

Koro asks, "Who is to blame?" Even though sometimes problems are complicated or just happen, why is it easier to have someone to blame? Though the whales beaching themselves is sad and upsetting, are there any positive things that happen for the humans in the story? How do you think Koro feels as Nanny hands him his rei puta?

Clip #15: Koro by Pai's bedside. The whole village launches dad's finished boat. (1:33:11-End)

What are three specific details that make this a positive ending? Why do you think the filmmakers ended the movie this way? Whale Rider Lesson Plan and Graphic Organizer

Begin by introducing the movie and give students some context about why it’s worth thinking about more deeply. Though it's no longer a hugely popular movie, it's possible that some kids will have already seen it, so it's helpful to make a strict "If you know it, don't blow it" rule to prevent spoilers. You might also want to discuss some of the learning objectives or the concept of active viewing.

Before the Movie

Hand out copies of the Whale Rider Active Viewing Guide, and give students a few minutes to finish the Before You Watch question.

Students will be listing some of their goals and potential obstacles in a table. Importantly, they’ll return to this after the movie and reflect on it. If students need an example, a goal might be "becoming a doctor" and the obstacle might be "not having money for college." Another could be "playing high school football" and "not being allowed because you're a girl."

Preview the activities students will be doing during the movie. Students will be writing down notes about four prompts: Examples of how Pai ...

Trusts her instincts. Seeks knowledge. Challenges limits. Shows courage.

Once the movie is over, you can use all of the questions and activities or just pick and choose, depending on how much time you have. You might also choose to have students work in pairs, small groups, or together as a whole class.

During the Movie

Make sure to pause periodically (feel free to use the timestamps above) and give kids a chance to write or draw responses to the prompts on their handouts.

After the Movie

Have students complete the After You Watch activities.

You can use all of the questions and activities or pick and choose, depending on how much time you have. Students can write down responses individually and then discuss in pairs, small groups, or as a whole class. As you see fit, use the selected scenes and discussion questions listed earlier in this article to guide a class discussion about the movie. Writing Prompts

You can use these additional prompts (which don't appear on the student handout) to guide students in a writing project or a more comprehensive discussion about the movie's major themes.

Much of the movie is about respecting where you come from while remaining open to change. How can a person -- or society -- decide what values, traditions, and expectations to keep the same, and what to rethink or revise? Niki Caro, the director of the movie said, "When I made Whale Rider -- of course, I'm not Māori and have no business, as a white girl, telling people how to be in this movie –- I started by learning the language as best I could. I spent lots of time in the community. I realized that by being on the ground, eating the food...I could experience the truth and beauty of a culture. It's not about me. I am absolutely in service of the truth of the story. I've made every movie since Whale Rider in that way." What are your feelings about someone outside of a community becoming a storyteller for that group? This story involves a lot of loss and grief, but also hope and courage. How it it possible for these emotions -- which seem like opposites -- to happen together? Pai deals with a lot of rejection from Koro just because she's a girl. How can someone accept themselves when they don't feel accepted by others? Creative Extensions

Pai's story is based on a legend from the Māori tradition, but many of the challenges and messages are universal. Create a different story that conveys the same messages using whatever method you choose.

Witi Ihimaera uses magical realism in Whale Rider. Magical realism is when a story is set in the real world, but there are some elements of fantasy. Create your own story using magical realism.

Ask your family or do some research about your cultural traditions, beliefs, and legends, or customs. Pick one, learn about it, and prepare a visual or demonstration to share with the class.

Minari and SEL: A Movie Guide and Lesson Plan for Your Classroom

Minari and SEL: A Movie Guide and Lesson Plan for Your Classroom — Thu, 22 Jul 21 11:09:00 -0700

Minari follows the journey of a Korean-American family building a new life on a farm. At the heart of the movie are questions about the choices we make for our families and the priorities behind them. Specifically how our choices are influenced by our character traits, values, and virtues.

The discussion guide and lesson below will help students consider how and why characters in Minari act the way they do. Students will also reflect on how their own sense of identity has developed within their family and community -- including the impacts of culture and ancestry. They'll also consider how this might play out for others who aren't like themselves.

There's a ton of SEL content to work with here. It's accessible to 9th graders but can also spark more nuanced conversations for 12 graders. The movie taps into common family dynamics that most students will connect with, while complicating those dynamics through a story of migration and cultural displacement. The film will resonate particularly with students whose households have deep connections to countries other than the one in which they reside.

Things to Know Before You Show Minari to Your Students

This guide offers two different approaches to teaching Minari:

Show a few specific clips along with discussion questions. Show the entire film with a more in-depth lesson plan and handout.

Much of the movie has subtitles, so if you have students that can benefit from it a simple transcript and the full screenplay are both available.

Content warning: There are a few scenes to be aware of before you show the movie. You know your classroom and community norms best -- use your professional judgement to decide how you'll address these, if necessary.

At 49:44, there's a scene where David tricks Soonja (Grandma) into drinking his urine. Around 1:19:00, some kids use chewing tobacco. Lesson Objectives

This lesson is designed to align with the CASEL 5 competencies for social and emotional learning as well as various Thinking Routines from the Harvard Graduate School of Education's Project Zero.

Use this lesson to help students consider how they can:

Exhibit self-discipline and self-motivation. Show the courage to take initiative. Demonstrate personal and collective agency. Integrate their personal and social identities. Identify their personal, cultural, and linguistic assets. Experience self-efficacy. Develop interests and a sense of purpose. Identify diverse social norms, including unjust ones. Recognize situational demands and opportunities. Understand the influences of organizations and systems of behavior. Anticipate and evaluate the consequences of their actions. Reflect on their own role in promoting personal, family, and community well-being. Minari Clips and SEL Discussion Questions for Students

If you only want to show brief parts of the film and discuss them with students, use these helpful clips to get you started. You can also use these in conjunction with the longer lesson plan below.

Clip #1: Jacob explains how the male chicks are "discarded," and that means it's important to be useful. (7:56-9:40)

What do you think Jacob is feeling as he talks to David about the farm? Why do you think so? Jacob explains that the male chicks are discarded, so it's important to be useful. What do you think this statement shows about Jacob's motivations?

Clip #2: A thunderstorm is in full swing, and everyone's scared. Jacob and Monica fight as the kids make paper airplanes with the message "Don't fight!" (10:49-13:53)

Why does Anne get so angry when Jacob says they worried for nothing? Beyond the tornado, why is she angry? When Monica asks Jacob which family the move was really for, what does she mean? Why does Jacob mention that he's the eldest son? Anne's strategy when her parents are fighting is to send messages with paper airplanes, which is a creative way to find some control over a situation where she's powerless. Can you think of a situation where you make your voice heard even though you can't really change what's happening?

Clip #3: A dowser comes to show Jacob he can find water on the property, but Jacob says, "Americans, believing that nonsense! Korean people use their heads." (16:09-19:51)

Dowsing is a very old practice considered to be pseudoscience by some and legitimate folk wisdom by others. Jacob relies on knowledge and planning, so dismisses the dowser. What do you think about the tension between Jacob's approach and the dowser's approach? Why?

Clip #4: Jacob tells Anne that Koreans immigrate to the U.S. and miss Korean food. Monica explains that her mom has no other family because her father died in the war. (25:49-27:39)

What does Jacob's decision to grow Korean vegetables in Arkansas say about culture and identity? Why is it significant that Monica's father died in the Korean War?

Clip #5: Grandma (Soonja) arrives, and David is unsure about her. She says American kids don't like sharing their room and Monica says, "He's a Korean kid." (27:40-31:25)

Is Soonja what you expected? Is she what David expected? Why? Grandma sees David as an American kid and Monica asserts that he's a Korean kid. Who's right? Is there a "right"?

Clip #6: Grandma (Soonja) makes David a special tea, and he complains about a "Korea" smell in his room. (34:04-35:56)

Because entire countries can't have a smell, what is it David is really reacting to? Why?

Clip #7: Grandma can't bake, but she shows the kids what she can do by teaching them a card game. (35:37-37:58)

David expects his grandmother to be able to bake cookies. Instead, she plays cards and swears. How do our roles in a family sometimes create expectations for us?

Clip #8: The family goes to church, and people there react in various ways to them being Korean. (42:44-49:43)

Monica wants a sense of community. Does she find it at church? How would you describe the behavior of the people at church toward the Yi family? This movie is set in the '80s. Do you think this scene would look different today? Why or why not?

Clip #9: David dumps out his tea and urinates in the cup. Grandma drinks it, he's punished, and Grandma defends him. (49:44-55:13)

Why do you think David does what he does, and why does Soonja defend him?

Clip #10: After Jacob learns a deal fell through with a Korean business owner, there's a shot of the smoke stack for "discarded" useless male chicks. (1:02:06-1:03:57)

Why do you think the filmmakers linger on the shot of the smokestack at the end of this scene?

Clip #11: After David gets hurt, Grandma emphasizes how strong he is. When they're by the creek, Soonja says, "It's better to see [the snake] than have it hide. Things that hide are more dangerous and scary." (1:05:33-1:10:00)

Why does his grandma telling him he's a "strong boy" contradict the identity he's used to? Why do you think David has accepted Soonja? Beyond the snake, what does Soonja mean about things that hide? Do you agree with her? Why or why not?

Clip #12: Soonja has a stroke. The kids go to church so they can call their mother. On the church bus, kids joke about Paul not having water. (1:12:32-1:18:35)

David wakes up thinking he's wet the bed, but it was Soonja this time because she's had a stroke. Just a few hours before, she'd been making him feel safe. As kids, what do moments like this mean about our understanding of the world and how it works? When the kids on the bus make fun of Paul because he doesn't have water at his house, David realizes that's true about his family, too. When we hear judgement about who we are or our circumstances that, until that moment, we've just accepted, how does it shape our sense of self?

Clip #13: Monica tells Anne she's so grown up, taking care of everyone. Later, Anne asks David if he wants to live with mom or dad. (1:23:41-1:24:58)

What's Anne's role in the family? What are some examples to support your idea?

Clip #14: Jacob takes his box of produce to the appointment with the doctor, which upsets Monica. They fight. (1:31:41-1:35:41)

What are Jacob's priorities? What are Monica's? What are our options when our priorities are fundamentally different from a loved one's? If you had to take a side, whose side would you take? Why?

Clip #15: Soonja accidentally sets fire to the produce shed. Jacob hires a dowser to find water. David leads dad down to the creek. Jacob sees the minari and says, It's growing well on its own." (1:38:26-end)

How do priorities seem to shift during the fire? Why do you think big events -- like birth, illness, death, a pandemic, etc. -- can shift one's priorities? What do you think is the significance of Jacob hiring a dowser? Why does the movie end with Jacob commenting on the minari, and why is it the title of the movie? Minari Lesson Plan and Graphic Organizer

Start by introducing the movie and give students some context as to why it’s worth thinking more deeply about. Though it wasn't hugely popular among teens, it's possible that some of your students have seen it, so it's helpful to make a strict "If you know it, don't blow it" rule to prevent spoilers. You might also want to discuss some of the learning objectives or the concept of active viewing.

Before the Movie

Hand out the graphic organizer and give students a few minutes to complete the Before You Watch question.

Students will rank certain character traits in order of how important they are to personal growth. Importantly, they’ll return to this after the movie and reflect on it.

Preview the activities students will be doing during the movie. Students will be writing down notes about one character's motivations.

Once the movie is over, you can use all of the questions and activities or pick and choose, depending on how much time you have. Depending on what's best for your class, have students work in pairs, small groups, or as a whole class.

During the Movie

Make sure to pause periodically (feel free to use the timestamps above) and give kids a chance to write or draw responses to the prompts on their handouts.

After the Movie

Have students complete the After You Watch Activities.

You can use all of the questions and activities or pick and choose, depending on how much time you have. Students can write down responses individually and then discuss in pairs, small groups, or as a whole class As you see fit, use the selected scenes and discussion questions listed earlier in this article to guide a class discussion about the movie. Writing Prompts

You can use these additional prompts (which don't appear on the student handout) to guide students in a writing project or a more comprehensive discussion about the movie's major themes.

In an interview on NPR’s Fresh Air, director Lee Isaac Chung, said, "Ultimately, a patch of minari, this Korean plant that the grandmother plants, that my grandmother planted, that ended up being the only thing that really thrived on that farm...It's a hardy plant. It kind of grows in places where you can't grow anything else. It can take root in very poor soil conditions. And what it ends up doing is it actually revitalizes the soil. And it cleans up the water. It has a purifying effect." How can people be like the symbol of minari, in that they're not only resilient but make something or some place better than before? Thinking back on the movie, is there one scene that’s particularly memorable? What scene, and why does it stick out in your mind? Can you identify a choice the filmmakers made about music, camera angles, etc. that made it especially memorable? People often fall into roles in families: The peacemaker, the comedian, the caretaker, etc. Do you think this is a positive or negative thing? Why? What are the challenges of maintaining a culture while being a part of another one? What are the pressures of "fitting in" while also being true to yourself/where you came from? Creative Extensions

Create a "farm" that represents the things that motivate you to learn and grow as a person. It could be a sculpture or diorama, a drawing, a poem that describes it, or a virtual one (using Minecraft, etc.).

Jacob faces many challenges and setbacks as he tries to make the farm work, only to lose the crop in the fire. But we see, at the end, he is going to try again. Identify a time in your life when you had to work hard and overcome challenges but didn't give up. It could be something that only happened inside of yourself. Create something -- a piece of writing, art, music, a game, etc. -- that illustrates this time.

Anne is a quiet force in the movie, taking care of David and trying to make things easier for her parents. Though she's not a very dynamic character, she plays a huge role in holding everything together. Can you think of someone from your own life, from history, or from a piece of media that's like Anne -- a bit of an "unsung hero" who helps keep things going? Create something that gives this person a proper shout out!

Inside Out and SEL: A Movie Guide and Lesson Plan for Your Classroom

Inside Out and SEL: A Movie Guide and Lesson Plan for Your Classroom — Wed, 07 Jul 21 14:58:00 -0700

Pixar's Inside Out is a movie that's all about feelings, and this makes it perfect for sparking discussions with kids about social and emotional learning. Since the central characters all embody a different emotion, students learn to see parts of themselves or their experiences in each character.

Refreshingly, the movie doesn't make learning about emotions such a heavy-handed endeavor. By getting to know and love each character, students naturally come to understand that emotions are complex, and that we need the entire range of feelings to fully capture the meaning of life experiences.

Things to Know Before You Show Pixar's Inside Out to Your Students

This guide offers two different approaches to teaching Inside Out:

Show a few specific clips along with discussion questions. Show the entire film with a more in-depth lesson plan and handout.

Lesson Objectives

This lesson is designed to align with the CASEL 5 competencies for social and emotional learning as well as various Thinking Routines from the Harvard Graduate School of Education's Project Zero.

With this lesson, you can help your students:

Identify their own feelings. Think through what it means for emotions to have context. Acknowledge the value of having a range of emotions. Connect their own personal experiences to the movie's messages. Identify their own perspective, and be curious about the perspectives of others. Explore the ways they identify their own emotions, including somatically. Think about the ways they currently self-regulate, and explore possibilities for other ways. Think about helpful versus unhelpful responses to emotions from themselves and others. Inside Out Clips and SEL Discussion Questions for Students

If you only want to show brief parts of the film and discuss them with students, use these helpful clips to get you started. You can also use these in conjunction with the longer lesson plan below.

Clip #1: When Dad says Riley can't have dessert if she doesn't eat her broccoli, Anger "blows his top." (3:48-4:06)

Use this scene to talk about idioms. Have kids draw another emotion-related idiom (ex. cry your eyes out, bent out of shape, spaced out, down in the dumps, etc.).

Clip #2: Joy explains core memories and how they feed the "islands of personality." (4:37-6:38)

Have students draw and/or write about their core memories and/or their own islands of personality.

Clip #3: Riley sees her new house, and she experiences a range of emotions. (8:43-9:50)

Discuss: How do emotions influence how Riley feels about the new house? How can she go from feeling sad about her new room to feeling excited about how it will look? The room didn't change -- what did change, and how?

Clip #4: A joyful memory becomes sad, as Riley remembers a moment from the trip. (11:51-12:54)

As we grow up, sometimes feelings get more complicated. In this scene, a memory that was purely happy becomes sad. In the movie, this is caused by Sadness touching the memory. Ask students: In the real world, why might sadness "touch" a memory? Explain to students that this movie was inspired by a real 11-year-old. Her dad wanted to show what it's like to have complicated feelings as you grow up. Ask students: Do you think he did a good job? What would you do differently?

Clip #5: Joy argues with the other emotions about how Riley should feel on the first night after the move, using the phrase, "It could be worse." (16:01-17:14)

Riley has her own room in a house in San Francisco, which is more than many people have. Ask students: Is Joy right -- could it be worse? Should Riley not feel angry, sad, or scared? Does thinking about how things could be worse change how you feel? Why or why not?

Clip #6: Mom thanks Riley for being their "happy little girl" and wants them both to keep smiling for Dad. (17:10-18:06)

Riley isn't feeling happy when her mom calls her their "happy little girl." She wants Riley to "put on a happy face." Ask students: Have you ever kept smiling even when you weren't happy? What did it feel like? Did it help the situation? Did it help you?

Clip #7: Joy asks Sadness to stay confined inside of a circle and not participate in Riley's first day at her new school. (20:50-21:27)

Joy wants to keep Sadness in a tiny circle during Riley's first day at her new school. Ask students: What's the result? In real life, can we keep our emotions exactly where we want them?

Clip #8: Riley starts crying in class as she talks about her home in Minnesota, and Joy tries to prevent a sad memory from becoming a core memory. (22:09-26:08)

Even though she didn't want to, Riley cries in class. Ask students: How much control do we actually have over our emotions?

Clip #9: Without Joy around, Riley snaps at her parents during dinner, and her dad "puts his foot down." We also get a peek into her parents' emotional headquarters. (26:26-30:08)

The movie doesn't focus on the parents' feelings or experiences much. Ask students: How do you think Riley's parents are feeling about the move or having new jobs? How do you think they feel about making Riley move? What are the emotions in charge for Mom? For Dad? Why do you think people react to the same situation in different ways?

Clip #10: Mind workers vacuum up faded memories to send them to the memory dump. (34:39-36:04)

Use this opportunity to briefly talk with students about how the movie uses examples from real parts of brain science, like long-term memory, abstract thought, and dreaming. Another example is the brain "getting rid of" unused information. Have students pick one element of brain science to represent in a drawing (or any other type of creative output). Some other examples include learning, processing the senses, and daydreaming, among many others.)

Clip #11: While talking to her friend from Minnesota, Riley suddenly feels angry. (36:00-36:36)

Ask students: After Riley slams her computer, how do you think her friend felt? When we lose control of our feelings and do something that hurts someone else, we may not have meant to hurt them. If we didn't mean to, are we still responsible? What can we do next?

Clip #12: Joy, Sadness, and Bing Bong take a shortcut through Abstract Thought. (41:40-43:35)

An abstract thought is something that's not concrete -- or not easy to explain -- like love or loneliness. Ask students: How did the movie makers show us what abstract thought is? Have students take an abstract idea and show it in a concrete way in a drawing (or any other type of creative output).

Clip #13: Riley's hockey tryout is very frustrating and upsetting. (45:16-46:50)

Ask students: Riley is good at hockey and usually enjoys it, so why are the tryouts so hard?

Clip #14: Both Joy and Sadness try to comfort Bing Bong when his wagon is thrown in the dump, and Sadness is the one to succeed. (47:04-49:39)

Having empathy is about understanding what someone else is feeling. Ask students: Why does Bing Bong respond to Sadness but not Joy? Ask students: Why are movies a great way to see other people's perspectives and practice using empathy?

Clip #15: Joy and Bing Bong are stuck in the memory dump. Joy feels sad herself (and realizes that emotions work together), and Bing Bong sacrifices himself to make sure Joy can escape. (1:06:27-1:13:35)

Ask students: What does Joy realize as she holds Riley's memory the moments after losing the hockey game? Why does Bing Bong decide to let himself fade away? Introduce students to the idea of nostalgia. Ask them: When you think about happy memories from when you were little that may be fading, how do you feel?

Clip #16: Riley's parents realize she's gone -- Riley struggles with her decision, returns home, then shares her sadness with her parents. (1:13:40-1:23:54)

Explain that Riley choosing to run away and try to get back to Minnesota is one way to deal with her feelings. Then ask students: What's the impact of that choice? What are some other ways she could have expressed her feelings? Inside Out SEL Lesson Plan and Graphic Organizer

Begin by introducing the movie and give students some context about why it’s worth thinking about more deeply. A lot of students may have seen the movie already since it came out in 2015, so make a strict "If you know it, don't blow it" rule to prevent spoilers. You might also want to discuss some of the learning objectives or the concept of active viewing.

Before the Movie

Hand out copies of the Inside Out Active Viewing Guide, and give students a few minutes to finish the Before You Watch question.

Students will be listing emotions and circling the emotions they see as "good" or "positive." Importantly, they'll return to this after the movie and reflect on it in the last question. It's essential that students do both the first and last questions on the handout so as not to reinforce misconceptions about emotions or feelings being inherently good or bad. For a more interactive experience, you can have kids create a "positive emotion" word cloud using Kahoot or another tool of your choice.

Before you start the movie, explain the next activity that students will complete while they watch. They'll need to pick a moment that has great use of color and/or music, and make a sketch of it.

During the Movie

Make sure to pause periodically at key scenes throughout the movie (feel free to use the clips outlined above in this article). As you pause and discuss, give students time to do some sketching.

After the Movie

Have students complete the After You Watch activities.

Students can write down their responses individually, then discuss in pairs, small groups, and/or as a whole class. Discussion Questions:

After the movie ends, it's important to help students reflect on what they've seen and talk about what they're thinking. You can discuss anything that feels particularly relevant to your students. The scenes and discussion questions listed earlier in this article can be a good starting point, but feel free to guide your class discussion as you see fit.

Creative Extensions

Ask students to imagine what their own memory storage system is like: How are their memories categorized? Where do their memories all go? What does the system look like?

Have students think of a memory they have that started out one way but feels a different way now. Using color, create something that show the feelings they have from this memory, and how they've changed over time.

Watch another movie that explores similar themes but from a different cultural perspective:

My Neighbor Totoro Coco Akeelah and the Bee

Invite students to consider how these movies tackle universal themes, but in different ways given who they represent and how (e.g. the family in Inside Out is a contemporary upper-middle-class White family in the city, and the family in My Neighbor Totoro is Japanese and lives a more modest life in rural, post-war Japan).

The Best Educational Game Websites for Elementary School Students

The Best Educational Game Websites for Elementary School Students — Fri, 18 Jun 21 15:37:00 -0700

Games are the undisputed queens of classroom fun, but they can also be exceptional tools for learning. Great educational games get students to think critically, create, and experiment with new ideas. The problem is, a lot of games that claim to be educational are little more than dressed-up quizzes that challenge students to recall facts, faster and faster. These games might hook students, but they don’t actually teach much, or lead to the kind of deeper, high-interest learning that helps students master content.

With this in mind, we've taken a look at the most popular websites for educational games to try to find those sites that support true game-based learning. We dug into each site's learning design, feedback loops, and supporting resources for learners and educators. We also kept an eye out for ads and overall look, feel, and ease of use. It's important to note that the sites we looked at were those that offer a range of self-directed games for learners to choose from as opposed to curricular programs that guide learners through a series of games.

Our selections Best overall: PBS Kids

Out of all the articles we've done comparing tools in a particular genre -- from quizzing to typing to screencasting -- this was the easiest choice. PBS Kids is just simply on a different level from every other educational game site when it comes to pedagogy and game-based learning. There's a clear focus throughout PBS Kids on thoughtful, game-based approaches to learning objectives. Great educational games find ways to accomplish learning objectives through novel game mechanics. Bad educational games are basically digital worksheets. PBS Kids is the former -- each game seems to have a new, unique spin on learning content that gives students agency and helps them be creative. There's also quality feedback that communicates to learners that getting something wrong isn't bad, but part of the journey.

PBS Kids is also easy to recommend because it's free and doesn't feature any ads or commercialization. So many other sites are riddled with ads (unless you pay for a subscription) and even then don't have the best privacy policies in place to protect students. PBS Kids is the exception, not only offering a completely free product without ads, but having good policies in place that scored very well on our privacy evaluation. This makes PBS Kids a trustworthy product schools and families can turn to.

The final thing that PBS Kids does so well is its content coverage. There's just about everything you'd want for early learners on the site, and best of all a lot of the subject areas are mashed together, so that kids are never learning one kind of content but building skills in a cross section of domains at any given time, from science, art, reading, and math to emotion identification and music.

Read our review of PBS Kids.

Runner-up: BrainPop

BrainPop, like PBS Kids, is a huge name when it comes to elementary school learning. But while PBS specializes equally in video and games, BrainPop's focus is predominantly videos covering just about any kind of content that might come up in an elementary school classroom. That said, BrainPop still earns a spot on this list, because they do have a solid library of easy-to-recommend and high-quality educational games.

But while all of PBS Kids's games are created by PBS, BrainPop does a great job of curating the best educational games from across the web alongside their own games. The third-party games come from some of the better developers and publishers of learning games, including a hefty dose of research labs as well as giants like iCivics. This all takes place on a sub-site called GameUp, where you can browse the games by subject and even by those that make use of BrainPop's novel SnapThought tool, which lets students screenshot their play and then annotate it for assessment.

Note that BrainPop Jr. also has a games section, but it's a lot less impressive and doesn't receive the same recommendation from us.

Read our reviews of BrainPop and GameUp.

Other recommendations Maybe worth a look (with a paid upgrade): Arcademics

Outside of PBS Kids and BrainPop, there's not much we'd recommend without a lot of caveats, or in limited scenarios. Out of that bunch, Arcademics is probably the best option, but you'll need to pay for the features we think make it stand out.

Arcademics has a wide variety of simplistic -- but also addictive -- games with a big focus on multiplayer. These aren't groundbreaking games, and we wouldn't even call them examples of game-based learning, but they do help students develop fluency with facts they've already learned. Most focus on fast recall of facts or solutions to equations. A paid account is a must, though, since it'll remove the annoying ads and also add progress-tracking and customizable content that can better help teachers integrate the tool into classrooms.

Read our review of Arcademics.

Paid, comprehensive math program: DreamBox

We didn't consider DreamBox officially as part of this list, but it's worth mentioning. While everything else we looked at is a grab bag of sorts, DreamBox is a carefully thought out program. It's self-paced, so students play through games and grow their skills over time. The program is designed to adapt as students struggle or succeed. So if you're looking less for one-off games and more sustained learning -- and you're willing to pay for it -- this is one worth checking out.

Read our review of DreamBox.

See everything we considered

The tools we call out here are a small slice of everything we looked at. If you prefer to do your own evaluation, find every tool we considered in our Top Picks list Websites for Reading, Literacy, and Math Games.

You can also use our site's search to browse our full library of reviews.

Go to search Our criteria

To help organize our evaluation of educational games, we looked at a few key features and functionalities:

Advertisements and privacy Content coverage Customization and adaptation Equity and accessibility Feedback Learning design and quality Visual design Why trust us?: Our evaluation process

Our team of editors and reviewers (all current or former educators and/or researchers) painstakingly looked at dozens of educational gaming sites and their games for this article and narrowed down 13 of these for deeper evaluation and consideration. Each site went through a rigorous evaluation process by both a reviewer and an editor. This involved hands-on testing (including, in some cases, in classrooms or other real-world scenarios), rating according to our research-backed 14-point rubric, communication with developers and other educators, and finally a written review. We also consulted our vast library of from-the-field reviews submitted by practicing educators. All told, each site underwent at minimum of four to six hours of testing and evaluation.

More information on our ratings and reviews

Is there something we missed? You can request a product for review using this form.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

The Best Family Communication Platforms for Teachers and Schools

The Best Family Communication Platforms for Teachers and Schools — Thu, 10 Jun 21 13:02:00 -0700

Family engagement can sometimes feel like a snow leopard: elusive, but beautiful when you encounter it. Yet, virtually all research points to the fact that having parents and caregivers engaged in their kids' education is hugely beneficial. With all of the potential barriers to creating and maintaining meaningful connection, teachers need a solution that works for them, their classrooms, and the larger school community.

While many districts use a learning management system (or LMS) that also has some messaging features, teachers often need something different for more targeted or personalized communication with families. Thankfully, there's no shortage of choices when it comes to parent-teacher communication apps vying to answer this call. For the most part, many of these apps overlap in their core features: All of these tools let you target communications, translate messages, and allow parents to sign up in multiple ways. Most offer a free version and may also let you attach files. Some provide just about every feature you can imagine and more, while others are more streamlined.

After lots of research and testing, we chose one platform because it offers excellent versions of the core features found in many apps, and because it's accessible to all communities. We've also called out a handful of other great tools that have some standout features you might find useful. We hope this info can help you narrow down your selection according to your classroom or school's specific needs.

Our selections Best overall: TalkingPoints

TalkingPoints offers everything you need, and it's 100% free -- and ad-free -- for everyone. Though it doesn't have all of the bells and whistles you'll find in some other tools, it delivers the essentials effectively, thoughtfully, and with all stakeholders in mind. Plus, it works for all grade levels.

First and foremost, TalkingPoints makes it easy to get started. Teachers can import users manually or import entire rosters with Google Classroom integration. Family members and caregivers can join via SMS or code. Since mobile devices are more common than PCs in people's homes, letting families sign up via text gives them easy, immediate access; plus, you can invite them to download the app at any time. Once signed up, the onboarding and initial walk-through leads both teachers and families through each step and feature. Overall, the platform is super easy to use, whether you're on mobile or the web.

Collectively, students in the U.S. come from homes where more than 400 languages are spoken, so it's no shock that almost every messaging tool has translation options. But TalkingPoints has made translation a core feature, showing users the messages pre- and post-translation, to help ensure more accurate translation and allow for learning a bit of school-related vocabulary. And if it's easier or more effective to get your message across via video, you also can send video messages with closed-captioning.

This focus on inclusivity isn't just limited to the translation feature. TalkingPoints allows for up to five contacts per student, and none needs to be a biological parent. The student can be one of those contacts as well -- this is great for older students working on building responsibility skills and self-regulation. One drawback: TalkingPoints only includes "male" and "female" in its gender choices, which won't work for some students.

Like most of the platforms we tested, TalkingPoints allows teachers to send messages to individuals or the whole class, send all manner of media (pictures, videos, and documents), send polls, set office hours (so parents know when you're unavailable), schedule messages ahead of time, and create message templates to reuse. There's also an analytics section if you -- or your district -- want to keep track of family engagement data. So, while it may not have all of the features of its competitors, TalkingPoints is a standout messaging platform for any grade level that makes it easy for teachers, students, and caregivers to communicate.

Read our full review of TalkingPoints.

Runner-up: Remind

Like TalkingPoints, Remind focuses on messaging: It doesn't have a lot of other features to facilitate event coordination or behavior management, but that's not its purpose. Though its onboarding process isn't quite as friendly as what TalkingPoints offers, Remind Chat is free for parents and teachers (Remind Hub has three paid tiers). However, the free tier also has a tight limit -- 140 characters -- on message length. And while the web and mobile versions differ a bit, the app lets you send voice memos, which is really handy for when you're on the go or if you need to communicate with caregivers who might prefer audio communication over a written message. The interface is clean and simple, and translation is offered for lots of languages. However, on mobile, users may need to adjust the language settings in their device -- not just in the app -- which can get confusing.

What sets Remind apart are some small, but very useful, features. For instance, there's a Files section, so if you have documents that you need to attach frequently, it's easy to store and find them right on the platform. And, you can see all of the files you've attached to messages. Also, there's a place to add a private note -- that's for your eyes only -- about recipients, which is super helpful when you have over 100 students and you want to remember any accommodations or personalized information that could help you make inroads with kids or their families. Finally, like TalkingPoints, Remind feels age-neutral, so it can work for just about any grade level.

Read our full review of Remind.

Best overall comprehensive platform: Bloomz

If your classroom or school needs messaging; coordination tools like calendars and volunteer sign-ups; student portfolios, behavior management features, and even a way to check kids' health, Bloomz might just be what you need. Though it overlaps with other platforms on many fronts, it has a look and feel that works for all ages while also letting older students take on more responsibility for themselves. Unlike most other platforms -- Seesaw being an exception -- Bloomz also offers screencasting, so you can actually send along some instruction. Like ClassDojo, Bloomz lets teachers track attendance, create student groups, and set class goals. The biggest drawback is that some features are visible but only available if you upgrade to a paid account. For some, Bloomz will actually have too many features, and those who aren't as tech savvy may be a bit overwhelmed by it all, but if you're looking for a comprehensive communication tool, look no further.

Read our full review of Bloomz.

Best choice to showcase student work: Seesaw

Instead of tattered folders stuffed with papers, digital portfolios are the 21st-century way to track student progress. And while there are lots of great options, Seesaw lets you share students' work in real time, alongside messages for families. Although Seesaw could feasibly work for all grades, it's best suited to the kinds of things younger students do most often: shorter assignments or visual student work that you can share with parents. So, for pre-K through third grade, when milestones come fast and furious and one photo can capture that oh-so-special moment, Seesaw is a great way to keep parents up to date. Keeping parents in the loop and sharing students' work can spark important discussions, and students can share their learning via files, photos, videos, and drawings. Students can even add to their portfolios themselves, which can help them develop their ownership and agency.

Read our full review of Seesaw.

Best choice for classroom management features: ClassDojo

Although other platforms have behavior management features, ClassDojo was the original in this category. Alongside elements like behavior reporting, class goals, and even student group creation, ClassDojo brings a few unique items to the table. While short SEL lessons might not immediately seem like they contribute to classroom management, ClassDojo's Big Ideas mini activities around topics like "teamwork," "goal setting," and "courage" offer great opportunities to reflect on your class's goals or behavior. In addition to the student-group creator, the app also includes music, a timer, a noise meter, and a random student selector, among other features. So, even if the idea of awarding points for student behavior isn't your cup of tea, the other elements might be helpful -- or even fun -- tools for your elementary school classroom.

Read our full review of ClassDojo.

Honorable mention for whole-school use: ParentSquare

ParentSquare is like the serious, more practical older sibling on this list: It's less about showcasing student work and personal messages, and more about managing communication at the whole-school level. In fact, individual teachers can't set up a ParentSquare account on their own -- everything has to be associated with a paid school-wide account. But, if this is the solution your school or district uses, you have a lot of options, including the convenience of sending and submitting forms through the app. Parents can fill out forms, submit payments, and take surveys all in one place.

Read our full review of ParentSquare.

See everything we've considered

The tools we've called out here are a small slice of everything we've looked at. If you prefer to do your own evaluation, these Top Picks lists feature every tool we think passes muster:

Best Messaging Apps and Websites for Students, Teachers, and Parents Apps and Websites for Improving Parent-Teacher Communication

You can also use our site's search to browse our full library of reviews.

Go to search Our criteria

To help organize our evaluation of school-to-home communication tools, we looked at a few key features and functionalities:

Translation: not just the number of languages, but how effectively the translation works across platforms. Targeted communication: the ability to send and receive messages with a variety of audience types (i.e., an entire class, an individual caregiver, etc.). Price: Is it free for teachers and -- most importantly -- families? Availability across multiple device types and platforms. Applicable for all K-12 grade levels. Ease of onboarding. Ease of use for adults who may not be comfortable with -- or may not have access to -- the latest technology. Why trust us?: Our evaluation process

Our team of editors and reviewers (all current or former educators and/or researchers) painstakingly looked at a wide variety of parent messaging platforms for deeper evaluation and consideration. Each app goes through a rigorous evaluation process by both a reviewer and an editor. This involves hands-on testing (including, in some cases, in classrooms or other real-world scenarios), rating according to our research-backed 14-point rubric, communication with developers and other educators, and finally a written review. We also consult our vast library of from-the-field reviews submitted by practicing educators. All told, each app undergoes at minimum four to six hours of testing and evaluation.

More information on our ratings and reviews

Is there something we missed? You can request a product for review using this form.

Teachers' Essential Guide to Google Classroom

Teachers' Essential Guide to Google Classroom — Wed, 26 May 21 02:00:00 -0700

Editor's note: Shaun Langevin contributed to the most recent update of this article.

Google's most popular tools -- Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Docs -- are staples for getting organized and getting work done. These collaboration-friendly tools have revolutionized the way we communicate, work together, and store information online. For teachers and students, the education-friendly platform Google Classroom brings the benefits of paperless sharing, assessment, and digital collaboration to classrooms. Tens of millions of teachers and students use Google Classroom in thousands of schools worldwide, making it one of the most popular edtech tools around.

Read on to find answers to teachers' most commonly asked questions about the platform, with all kinds of information on how you can use Google Classroom with your students. Also, be sure to check out our guide for parents and our detailed review of Google Classroom's learning potential.

Use these links to jump to any section below:

What is Google Classroom? Is Google Classroom an LMS? Who can use Google Classroom? How do teachers use Google Classroom? Can teachers use Google Classroom for assessments and grading? Do teachers use Google Classroom to teach live, like with Zoom? How do I set up Google Classroom? How can Google Classroom support differentiation in the classroom? How can administrators and curriculum coaches use Google Classroom? How can families and parents stay in the loop with Google Classroom? What's new in Google Classroom? How can I make Google Classroom more engaging and interactive for my students? What other apps and websites integrate with Google Classroom? What is Google doing with my students' data? Should I be worried about privacy? Where can I find more ideas about using Google Classroom?

What is Google Classroom?

Google describes Google Classroom as "mission control for your classroom," which might be the easiest way to think about it. Simply put, it's a platform that ties together Google's Workspace tools (formerly known as G Suite) for teachers and students. It also acts as a digital organizer where teachers can keep class materials and share them with students -- all paperless-ly. From there, you can pick and choose the features you want to incorporate. This flexibility and seamless integration with Google's popular tools have made Google Classroom one of the most widely used edtech tools today.

Is Google Classroom an LMS?

Technically, no. Google Classroom is not a stand-alone learning management system (LMS), course management system (CMS), or student information system (SIS). That said, Google regularly adds new functions to Google Classroom. As of April 2021, Google Classroom can sync data with the Skyward 2.0 and Infinite Campus student information systems. According to Google, more SIS integrations currently are being piloted or are in development. As Google continues to add features, it may start to look, and function, more like an LMS. But for now it's best to think of the tool as a one-stop shop for class organization.

Who can use Google Classroom?

Anyone! Google Classroom is included as a free service for anyone with a personal Google account. It's also free for organizations using Google Workspace for Education or Google Workspace for nonprofits. In most cases, teachers and students can access Google Classroom using a Google account provided by their school. While teachers and students in schools are the primary users of Google Classroom, there are also features that administrators, families, clubs, after-school programs, and homeschoolers can use.

How do teachers use Google Classroom?

Because it's a fairly flexible platform, educators use its features in a lot of different ways. With Google Classroom, teachers can:

Streamline how they manage classes. The platform integrates with Google's other tools like Docs, Drive, Forms, Meet, and Calendar, so there are many built-in "shortcuts" for classroom-management tasks. For example, if you post an assignment with a due date, it's automatically added to your students' class calendar for them to see. Digitally organize, distribute, and collect assignments, course materials (think: videos, websites, PDFs, and more), and student work. Teachers also can post an assignment to multiple classes or modify and reuse assignments from year to year. If your students have regular access to devices, Google Classroom can help you avoid some trips to the photocopier and cut down on some of the paper shuffling that comes with teaching and learning. Communicate with students about their classwork. You can use the platform to post announcements and reminders about assignments, and it's easy to see who has or hasn't completed their work. You can also check in with individual students privately, answer their questions, and offer support. Give students timely feedback on their assignments and assessments. Within Google Classroom, it's possible to use Google Forms to create and share quizzes that are automatically graded as students turn them in. You'll not only spend less time grading, but also your students will get instant feedback on their work. Teachers can view individual and class data within Forms or an automatically generated Google Sheet. Can teachers use Google Classroom for assessments and grading?

Yes. Google Classroom can help teachers streamline summative and formative assessments. For example, you can use the platform to quickly create, distribute, and collect digital exit tickets or auto-graded assessments. Teachers also can pose discussion questions for quick insights into what students are thinking.

With these same tools, teachers also can create summative assessments, like unit tests. These tests can include traditional question types like multiple choice, short or paragraph answer, checkbox, and more. There also are options for students to upload files (like movies or photos) when responding to a question or prompt, allowing students to share their knowledge in a variety of ways. Of course, there are plenty of other formative and summative assessment tools out there, many of which now offer Google Classroom integration.

Recent updates to Google Classroom have included features for grading and rubrics. Teachers can simply assign points to different assignments, or give different types of assignments (essays, classwork, homework, etc.) different weights. You can create rubrics right in Google Classroom, and students can view these as they work. Turned-in work can be graded using the rubric, and the score will be automatically calculated. Take note, however, that it isn't possible to use standards-based grades (at least not yet).

Do teachers use Google Classroom to teach live, like with Zoom?

Some teachers use Google Meet as a videoconferencing solution (instead of Zoom or another similar tool). Google Classroom integrates with Google Meet, and teachers can set up video meetings from within Google Classroom for live, or "synchronous," instruction. By default, students can't begin a meeting before the teacher, or rejoin the meeting if the teacher is the last person to leave. Meet videos created from within Google Classroom are only accessible from school-managed Google Workspace for Education accounts.

In addition to live-video capabilities, the recording feature in Google Meet gives teachers an easy tool for creating prerecorded video lessons for asynchronous learning, where students could watch on their own time. The Google for Education Teacher Center has helpful video tutorials about Google Meet to help teachers get started.

How do I set up Google Classroom?

The basic setup process for Google Classroom is pretty intuitive, even for first-time users. The Google for Education Teacher Center offers several tutorials for getting started -- this is your best bet if you're looking for the most up-to-date videos and information. There are also plenty of do-it-yourself tutorials on YouTube posted by teachers and tech-integration specialists. Many of these teacher-created videos include practical tips and tricks they've learned from using the platform in their classrooms.

How can Google Classroom support differentiation in the classroom?

Google Classroom makes it easy to customize assignments for individual students or small groups. Teachers can give modified or differing assignments to specific students or groups in a class. You also have the option to check in with a student privately to see whether they have questions or need extra help. An online differentiation strategy like this can make your efforts less conspicuous to the class, so students won't feel singled out in the way that they might with other types of in-person differentiation.

With or without a tool like Google Classroom, differentiation is always going to be a matter of creative problem-solving, and there's no one or "right" way to do it. Luckily, lots of teachers share their tips, tricks, and creative solutions online. Here's an example of how one teacher uses Google Classroom to meet students at their levels.

How can administrators and curriculum coaches use Google Classroom?

Google Classroom isn't just for teachers. Superintendents, principals, and curriculum coaches can benefit from using Google Classroom to organize staff notes, announcements, dates, documents, and other resources for teachers and other school staff. When utilizing Google Classroom in this way, administrators can intentionally model many of the technological skills and proficiencies they'd like teachers to use.

Curriculum coaches can create anonymous questionnaires (using Google Forms) to receive feedback on recent professional development. Coaches could even go a step further and upload videos of model lessons for teachers in their district to view -- a great way to bring teachers who are new to a school or district up to speed.

How can families and parents stay in the loop with Google Classroom?

Google Classroom has options for teachers to send out updates about students' classwork, but it doesn't offer the level of communication you'll find in tools like Seesaw, ClassDojo, or Remind. Google refers to parents and families as "guardians" who can opt in to receive email summaries about missing work, upcoming work, and other class activity. However, it doesn't include direct-messaging features for families or allow families to comment on their children's work.

What's new in Google Classroom?

The platform has been updated quite a bit since its launch, and Google continues to introduce new features regularly, often based on feedback from teachers. For example, grades, rubrics, and Google Meet integration all are features that were added recently. Another new feature called "originality reports" is essentially a plagiarism-checking tool that checks a student's Google Document against webpages and books readily available on the internet. If the feature is turned on, students can run reports before submitting assignments -- teachers can run them after. Teachers may want to use the originality reports feature as an opportunity to teach the importance of citing sources.

How can I make Google Classroom more engaging and interactive for my students?

To make learning with digital content more dynamic for students, consider mixing up the types of resources you share with them in Google Classroom. In addition to Google Workspace tools like Docs and Slides, teachers and students can share other types of media, including images, links to websites, YouTube videos, and screencasts. Some teachers even give students a variety of options for submitting their work within Google Classroom. For example, you might offer students the choice to respond to a reading assignment with a comment, video clip, or drawing that shows their thinking (see our section on differentiation above).

If you're looking to create an interactive hub for students, you might consider doing this on Google Classroom's Stream page. Within Google Classroom, the Stream is a feed where everyone in the class can find announcements and upcoming assignments, and it's the first thing students see when they log in. Alice Keeler, a well-known blogger who writes extensively about Google Classroom, recommends using the Stream to post your class agenda and suggests using Screencastify to post video messages for students.

Some teachers use the Stream to set up class discussion boards, where students can interact online by asking questions or commenting on each other's posts. These discussion boards can help increase class participation and offer students more equity in having their voices heard (or read) by the class. With discussions, you can use the Stream as a closed social network of sorts, and it can be a great way to help kids practice using all kinds of different digital citizenship skills in a "walled garden" type of setting.

What other apps and websites integrate with Google Classroom?

There are now hundreds of external apps and websites that integrate with Google Classroom. Some of these apps may partner with Google, while others create and publish their own third-party add-ons as Chrome extensions. If you're using Google Classroom extensively, integrating other edtech tools can be a way to streamline your instruction.

For example, say you want your students to study some vocabulary words using Quizlet; you can use the Google Classroom integration to directly share and assign a particular flash card set to your class. Or, if you're looking for other learning content online, there are integrations with publishers like Newsela, Khan Academy, and BrainPop, among others -- you'll find all kinds of articles, videos, and other educational content to share with your students.

Our article Nine Apps and Websites That Integrate with Google Classroom covers a handful of these, but the list certainly doesn't end there. If there's an edtech app or website you like using with your students, chances are there's a way to link it within Google Classroom.

What is Google doing with my students' data? Should I be worried about privacy?

As an educator, protecting your students' privacy and data should definitely be a consideration whenever you're choosing a digital tool for your classroom. Anytime a tool might collect data from students, it's essential to ask questions about how the companies involved are securing, using, or storing student data. For more information, be sure to read our full privacy review of Google Classroom.

Google says that data privacy and security are high priorities for all Google Workspace for Education products. However, educators should keep in mind that parents and families have a right to opt out if they don't want their children to use Google products in school. Before launching Google Classroom, school administrators and teachers might want to have an alternative plan in place for students who may opt out.

In the past, some educators, families, and advocates have expressed doubts about Google's ability to deliver on promises about privacy and data protection. What's more, the prominence of Google branding and products in schools has raised questions about the trade-offs of allowing Google to build its brand in schools. Whether you use Google Classroom or not, it's important to get students thinking critically about data privacy and the commercialization we see in different aspects of our lives -- including our classrooms.

Where can I find more ideas about using Google Classroom?

If you're looking for official information about Google Classroom, check out Google for Education's Twitter feed for product updates, ideas for teachers, videos, and even a newsletter about Google Workspace for Education products. Many Google Classroom fans are also tweeting, blogging, and even podcasting about all the ways they're using the platform with students. With millions of teachers and edtech specialists field-testing, experimenting, and innovating with Google Classroom, it's easy to find tips and inspiration from fellow educators online.

As you're using Google Classroom, don't be afraid to get creative with your own strategies, hacks, and innovative uses for the platform. Like most edtech tools, Google Classroom is what you make of it, and how it works will probably look very different from classroom to classroom. What's most important is to find the strategies and tools within Google Classroom that work best for you and your students. You can share the ways you're using Google Classroom with your students by leaving a Teacher Review today.

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Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Helpful Tools to Ease Learners Back into Math, Reading, and Writing

Helpful Tools to Ease Learners Back into Math, Reading, and Writing — Fri, 21 May 21 14:32:00 -0700

The rotation of every school year offers a mixture of excitement and anxiety. As students transition from one grade or year to the next, summertime is an opportunity to reset and reinvent. Naturally, they'll also forget some of what they've learned and won't yet feel ready to jump into what's to come. While we can and should acknowledge these challenges, framing them as "learning loss" can put undue stress on you and your students.

As we look toward next school year, let's honor students' commitment to learning, no matter where they are in their lives or academic development. Let's offer the support they need to build confidence and stay in school.

We think the resources we've curated below can help you in this process. These (mostly) free tools can help you assess how students are doing -- and feeling -- alongside other resources for building up their skills and confidence.

We've divided this list into three parts -- you can jump to any section below using these links:

Assess Where Your Students Are Help Students Build Academic Skills and Knowledge Create a Culture of Growth and Reflection with SEL Assess Where Your Students Are

These tools will help you get a sense of where students are, and which skills they still need to develop. Many of these tools also offer follow-up exercises and activities that target students' specific areas of need.

ASSESSMENT TOOLS FOR ALL SUBJECTS Edulastic

Grades K-12: Use the SmartStart Diagnostics at the start of the year to get a sense of where students are relative to their grade level or specific skill needs. There are 35 tests for math (grades K-12) and 10 tests for ELA (grades 3-12).

Read our review of Edulastic

Freckle

Grades K-9 for math and 3-8 for ELA: Assign Freckle's Benchmark Assessments to figure out how well students have mastered specific standards. Then follow up with differentiated instructional activities. Note: The free version only supports one assignment per week.

Read our review of Freckle

ASSESSMENT TOOLS FOR MATH Inside Mathematics

Grades 2-12: This site, developed by the University of Texas at Austin, has CCSS-aligned downloadable performance tasks for elementary through high school including rubrics and student work samples.

Read our review of Inside Mathematics

Knowledgehook

Grades 3-12: Assign this tool's Kick-Off Missions to quickly assess whether your students grasp core mathematics concepts at their grade level. There are also daily warm-ups and exit tickets to sustain learning.

Read our review of Knowledgehook

Math Nation

Grades 6-12: This one is only an option for states and districts with Math Nation licenses. But if you have access, there's an excellent self-paced On-Ramp course that assesses students' learning needs and then offers instruction to build their confidence and knowledge.

Read our review of Math Nation

ASSESSMENT TOOLS FOR READING AND WRITING Quill

Grades 1-12: Use Quill's diagnostic tool to figure out where students stand with some key grammatical skills, including -- and especially -- the ability to write complex sentences. There also are assessments specifically for ELLs.

Read our review of Quill

ReadTheory

Grades K-12: If you need to assess your students' reading comprehension, then ReadTheory is worth a look. The activities mimic standardized tests, and it's not the most exciting tool, so you may want to use it sparingly. But it offers quick, actionable data that can be valuable.

Read our review of ReadTheory

Writable

Grades 3-12: This one isn't free, but it makes the list because it's a writing tool that truly gets assessment right. The focus is on developing the writing process through copious opportunities for peer and instructor feedback, student reflection, and iteration.

Read our review of Writable

Help Students Build Academic Skills and Knowledge

Use these sites and resources to help students develop their skills and grow what they know. Most of these tools offer (nearly) comprehensive coverage of their content areas, so they should offer just what students need to fill in gaps in knowledge and become more confident.

SKILL-BUILDING TOOLS FOR ALL SUBJECTS CK-12

Grades K-12: This is a free, cornerstone resource covering math and ELA, as well as a variety of other content from health to social studies. Make sure to look into the FlexBooks, which are comprehensive, interactive textbooks spanning subject areas and grades, and are available in both English and Spanish.

Read our review of CK-12

Khan Academy Kids

Grades pre-K-2: For the youngest learners, this is an outstanding mobile option that'll encourage curious learning across math and reading with a healthy dose of the arts. The data reporting isn't great, but it's serviceable, and the excellent learning design means you can trust that students are developing.

Read our review of Khan Academy Kids

SplashLearn

Grades K-5: This is a good tool to send home with students so they can practice key skills and concepts. It features tons of color and character; however, the activities could get repetitive. So it's best used as a time-limited supplemental activity.

Read our review of SplashLearn

Tailor-Ed

Grades K-8: It can be tough to differentiate effectively, especially at the start of a new year with fresh faces. Tailor-Ed can help by assessing students (academically, and from an SEL perspective), grouping them, and then suggesting the right resources. Of course, teachers know best and can approve or modify students' experience so it's just right.

Read our review of Tailor-Ed

SKILL-BUILDING TOOLS FOR MATH Assistments

Grades 2-12: While it's not the flashiest tool, Assistments is highly useful for creating a feedback loop around classwork or homework. You can assign problem sets, see how students performed (students also get on-the-spot feedback), and then use that performance data to tune your lessons to the most pressing needs.

Read our review of Assistments

Khan Academy

Grades K-12: You probably already know about Khan Academy, but you might not know about their "get ready courses" for math. Each course offers instruction and tests for need-to-know concepts at that grade level. It's a manageable way for students to review and refresh as they kick off a new school year.

Read our review of Khan Academy

Youcubed

Grades 8-12: Backed by Stanford, this is a great resource for teacher PD, as well as for finding math tasks that build students' confidence, undoing the damaging math myths that can prevent students from reaching their potential.

Read our review of Youcubed

SKILL-BUILDING TOOLS FOR READING AND WRITING Bookshare and Learning Ally

Grades pre-K-12: These sites are paired here because they similarly offer tons of digital books for students with various learning and attention issues. Each text has handy supports, including audio and customizable visuals, that make reading more accessible. The incredible books on offer can help build a student's love of reading.

Read our reviews of Bookshare and Learning Ally

CommonLit

Grades 3-12: Find high-interest and curriculum-connected leveled texts. Each features built-in supports that improve accessibility as well as assessments that get students thinking.

Read our review of CommonLit

Lalilo

Grades K-3: If your students need phonics support, this is a great program to look into. It's a comprehensive and adaptive program that's not too busy. And while it can be a bit limited in terms of feedback, it'll come alive with effective teacher support.

Read our review of Lalilo

ReadWorks

Grades K-12: Similar to CommonLit, ReadWorks is a library of texts for students' reading development. What's special about ReadWorks is its focus on daily content as well as its offering of different types of texts (StepReads, human-voiced, ebooks) and question sets.

Read our review of ReadWorks

Create a Culture of Growth and Reflection with SEL

Let's acknowledge the anxieties that come with transitions like a new school year and help students work through them. These teaching and learning resources give students the SEL tools to check in with their emotions, honor their progress, and stay motivated.

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Breathe, Think, Do; Smiling Mind; Insight Timer

Grades pre-K-12: While the jury's out on the benefits of mindfulness to battle depression and anxiety among teens, providing students space to breathe and relax can be a useful way to refocus them and transition. These three tools are some of our favorites for creating these kinds of moments in classrooms.

Read our reviews of Breathe, Think, Do; Smiling Mind; and Insight Timer

Bulb

Grades 7-12: It might be a good idea this year to have students do regular written reflections that take note of what they've done, how it went, and where they need to go. Bulb is a simple portfolio tool that could structure this activity and others. Note: The free version only supports 10 pages.

Read our review of Bulb

Formative or Mentimeter

Grades K-12: Whether you're looking to do warm-ups, exit tickets, or just SEL check-ins with your students, these are two of the best tools you'll find. Formative focuses more on substantive, cyclical feedback, while Mentimeter is best for quick polls and temperature checks.

Read our reviews of Formative and Mentimeter

inspirED

Grades 8-12: Pull from this site's browsable collection activities if you're looking to support students' SEL skills development. Most require very little prep and minimal materials, and you can use them flexibly across grade levels.

Read our review of inspirED

Mitra

Grades 9-12: With teacher support, the Mitra app could offer a way for students to take stock of their values and identify how their emotions may relate to those values. The app encourages daily check-ins, which teachers could connect to the classroom through assignments or discussions.

Read our review of Mitra

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

12 Free Learning Apps and Websites for Kids at Home This Summer

12 Free Learning Apps and Websites for Kids at Home This Summer — Tue, 18 May 21 13:03:00 -0700

After a school year dominated by technology, parents and caregivers may be ready for their kids to take a long break from devices. However, students may be eager to flex their tech skills with some interest-driven independent play and exploration. Help guide students' online time this summer by sharing a few well-chosen, high-quality apps and websites with parents and caregivers. Families can download or bookmark these on kids' devices to ensure any screen time kids do have is time well spent.

The apps and websites listed here offer a nice mix of absorbing gameplay and first-rate learning -- sure to please kids and adults alike. Plus, they're all free!

Interest-driven reading Dotopedia

Good for: Reading, writing, creativity Grades: 1-5 Platforms: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android

Based on the character from the Dot. TV show and book, Dotopedia is a collaboration app kids can use to read about everything from butterflies to grandparents, or to create articles of their own.

Global Oneness Project

Good for: Reading, cultural awareness, empathy Grades: 9-12 Platforms: Website

The stories on this website range from short videos and films to photo essays, articles, and virtual reality experiences. Each offers culturally diverse, inspiring content that helps build knowledge and empathy.

Libby, by Overdrive

Good for: Reading Grades: K-12 Platforms: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android

This app allows students to browse and borrow ebooks and audiobooks from public libraries for free. Families can set the audience preference to juvenile or young adult to put some limits on the content kids can access.

Math games ChessKid

Good for: Critical thinking, math Grades: K-12 Platforms: Website

ChessKid teaches the game of chess with lessons and videos that cover topics including an introduction of each chess piece, opening offensive and defensive strategies, and common attacking patterns.

Khan Academy Kids

Good for: Math, literacy, social and emotional learning Grades: Pre-K-2 Platforms: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android, Kindle Fire

This collection of videos, songs, and activities covers a lot of ground in a creative, highly accessible format.

Math Snacks

Good for: Math, critical thinking Grades: 3-8 Platforms: Website

This fun site offers older elementary and middle schooler students online math games and animations that will keep them engaged with action-packed graphics, witty storylines, and upbeat music.

Pet Bingo by Duck Duck Moose

Good for: Math Grades: K-4 Platforms: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android

Pet Bingo by Duck Duck Moose covers a broad range of math skills, from adding one-digit numbers to dividing double digits.

Mental health and emotional well-being Smiling Mind

Good for: Social and emotional learning Grades: 8-12 Platforms: iPad, iPhone, iPod Touch, Android

Teens can learn to focus on their breathing, body signals, and senses with hundreds of meditations for a wide variety of situations.

GoNoodle

Good for: Social and emotional learning Grades: PreK-6 Platforms: Website, iOS, Android, AppleTV, Roku

GoNoodle's fun exercise program challenges kids to get moving, but their most interesting recent addition is entire section of videos focused on kids' mental health and wellbeing.

STEM and coding Made with Code

Good for: Coding, creativity, STEM Grades: 4-12 Platforms: Website

Google's Made with Code introduces students to the world of coding through resources including tutorials, videos, partner projects, and community connections.

Peep Ciencias: Colores

Good for: Science, Spanish Grades: Pre-K-2 Platforms: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad, Android

Part of a series of free bilingual learning apps, Peep Ciencias: Colores engages young kids with animated videos about colors. Plus, grown-ups get guidance on how to explore key concepts with kids through questions, conversations, exploration, and activities.

Scratch

Good for: Coding, STEM Grades: 1-12 Platforms: Website

This free, downloadable application gives students a taste of programming as they combine graphics, photos, music, and sound to create simple, interactive animations and games.

Tips and Ideas for Teaching Digital Citizenship in a Hybrid Classroom

Tips and Ideas for Teaching Digital Citizenship in a Hybrid Classroom — Wed, 05 May 21 20:36:00 -0700

Our classroom environments continue to shift during the pandemic, often with both in-person and remote students learning together. Whether we call this hybrid, concurrent, blended learning, or something else entirely, Common Sense's Digital Citizenship Curriculum and teaching resources are designed to foster rich discussions for all students, regardless of how and where they're learning. Students have opportunities to stop and reflect, seek facts and evidence, explore other perspectives, and envision how they might take action in real-world dilemmas.

Below you'll find a variety of helpful tips for teaching digital citizenship to both "roomers" and "Zoomers." Best of all, you can also apply these tips and teaching strategies to many other subjects besides digital citizenship.

Collaborate and build community

Apps and other online learning tools can help all students contribute to class discussions during hybrid learning. With online discussions, students can observe all perspectives in the class, build relationships, and expand their own points of view.

Here are three examples of how you can incorporate digital tools into rich digital citizenship conversations with your students. The examples here mention specific tools, but plenty of other tools have similar features.

What matters most isn’t really the tool itself, but the rationale or strategy behind using it. Tip: Have students brainstorm or share ideas on an interactive whiteboard.

Many of our K–12 lessons include graphic organizers (through Google Docs) that you can easily incorporate with other digital tools to help students collaborate and participate. For example, the interactive features in Jamboard help bring the graphic organizer included in our Is Breaking News Broken? news literacy activity to life. All students, whether they're in the room or online, can contribute and see everyone else's responses.

Here’s an example of what this might look like:

Note that I created the example above for a teacher PD session, using a social media post that was highlighted in the News Literacy Project’s "The Sift" newsletter. But you could easily replicate this activity for students with different current events throughout the year.

If you or your students want to dive deeper, consider pulling some of the questions and ideas they shared in Jamboard, and break students into groups to explore further. This activity is also a great way to document and show students' progression in learning digital citizenship concepts over time.

Tip: Create a digital gallery walk to share students' ideas and work.

In our third grade lesson, This is Me, students are asked to create a selfie and then share with a partner to analyze what they think the picture represents. The timeline template in Padlet is a great way to mimic a gallery walk, so all students can participate and see each other's pictures in an organized way. You can put students in pairs and have them comment on their partner's picture in the Padlet. They can also view their classmates' pictures to help build relationships and connections with each other in class.

Tip: Use a go-to strategy (like a think-pair-share) but with a digital twist.

Video sharing tools like Flipgrid can help us build better relationships with students, regardless of whether they're in the classroom or online. Our Quick Digital Citizenship Activities for K–5 and 6–12 are great for incorporating this strategy in a hybrid classroom. All of these activities include a video as well as questions to encourage critical thinking and reflective discussion.

You can have students watch one of the videos, record a response, then watch a response from a classmate. They could then consider how their classmate's response was similar or different. As with many activities using Flipgrid, being able to see and hear each other respond gives students the chance to build empathy, compassion, and understanding for each other, especially when framed around real challenges they may face.

Use inclusive discussions to help all students participate

All lessons from Common Sense use discussion activities aimed at helping young people think through the types of real-life digital dilemmas that they might experience. These activities give students opportunities to share their points of view and engage in civil discourse with others who may have differing perspectives. But it can be tricky to set up a discussion activity like this when you have students interacting both online and in person.

Here are a few tips to help keep these important conversations going with your students, no matter how they're joining your class.

Tip: Use digital tools to facilitate discussions.

Many of our lessons for grades 6 to 12 ask students to consider a variety of digital dilemmas -- these are essentially tricky situations that students might encounter in their digital lives. Students get practice using various thinking routines to help them slow down, reflect, and take the time to listen to different perspectives.

For example, in the first part of the Take a Stand thinking routine (check out the Educator Guide for more info), it's helpful to use an in-class activity like an agree/disagree line or a four corners debate strategy, like many of us have used in our classrooms in the past. But if you're teaching in a remote or hybrid scenario, this is easy to adapt using a tool like Mentimeter (pictured above), where students can contribute and view the range of perspectives in the class.

Tip: Help students dive deeper into the debate.

Want to help students improve their media literacy skills? Ask them to curate their classmates' responses from a digital dilemma discussion. From there, students can organize them using a tool like Kialo Edu, develop a rationale for each response, then seek facts and evidence to support or refute the claims.

With this strategy, students won't just dig deeper into the issue, they'll also be able to visualize just how complex these types of digital dilemmas can be. The example above (taken from the lesson Risk Check for New Tech) shows how students might explore the pros and cons of using digital location services to decide if they think the benefits of a new technology outweigh the risks.

Tip: Conduct a (revised) Socratic seminar.

Facing History and Ourselves offers a great overview of how to set up a traditional Socratic seminar and the rationale behind the strategy. One way you can revise this activity to include both remote and in-person students is simply to have your online students be in the inner circle, or the ones leading the discussion, and your in-class students the observers in the outer circle -- then switch. This offers all students a chance to share their thoughts and discuss the topic in an organized and more equitable way.

A Socratic seminar can work with so many of our lessons, but a couple of lessons work especially well with this type of activity. These include the third grade lesson The Power of Words, in which students analyze how words can be hurtful when read online, and the ninth grade lesson What You Send in "That Moment When ...". In this lesson, students go through a thinking routine using a scenario that invites them to consider how they might use empathy and positivity in some challenging real-world situations.

Design lessons with flexibility in mind

Each of our digital citizenship lessons includes customizable slides and handouts so you can tailor your students' learning experience to their needs. This flexibility make it easy to plug in some more interactive activities and can help students move through content at their own pace. For example, here's a student worksheet from our 11th grade lesson Clicks for Cash that I've modified to incorporate some of the strategies shown above -- all aimed at helping both in-person and remote students participate and collaborate in the discussion.

Tip: Use a digital station rotation model to offer more personalized support.

A station rotation model is one way to make sure all students have opportunities for direct support. Dr. Catlin Tucker shares a station rotation model for hybrid or concurrent instruction that includes teacher-led time, online time, and offline activities. Our Digital Citizenship lessons can easily be structured to work in this format. With different stations where students can work together in groups, you'll have more time to offer individual or personalized instruction as needed.

Again, using the Clicks for Cash lesson, here's an example of how you could adapt the worksheet, using a station rotation model after having some brief, direct instruction as an entire class.

Tip: Give students a system for asking questions and getting help.

Finally, it's important to give everyone a way to ask questions and get help when they need it. During in-person instruction, I've often had students use table tents with the colors red, yellow, and green to signal to me during independent or group-work activities. During hybrid instruction, you could adapt this into a digital format, like a Google Doc, where students can ask for help -- either from you or from their classmates. Just link the help document in the worksheet or assignment students are working from.

Here's a screenshot of how you might adapt the table tent strategy into a digital format:

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Should Remote Learning Be an Option, Even After the Pandemic?

Should Remote Learning Be an Option, Even After the Pandemic? — Thu, 29 Apr 21 12:11:00 -0700

The COVID-19 pandemic may be waning in the U.S., but it continues to disrupt lives around the world. For both students and teachers, online learning has come with a lot of challenges, from the digital divide and technology access to mental health impacts, or a lack of essential school and community supports. And the negative aspects of the pandemic have been especially significant for lower-income families and students of color.

But a handful of students have been thriving during online or distance learning. Some teachers and parents tell of improvements in students' learning and grades since the start of the pandemic. While online or remote learning clearly don't work for every student, it's possible that fully in-person learning also might not benefit every student. With reports that remote work may be here to stay for some employees, is it also worth considering a remote learning option for students who find it helpful?

As learners, each of us is different. Just as some of us enjoy being in a physical classroom, others might prefer to learn solo, from home. Students with ADHD, for instance, may find that learning from home actually limits distractions. Other students -- for example, those who struggle with anxiety or social differences -- may find in-person learning a negative experience. As we emerge from the pandemic, could a more diverse range of educational options be a solution? Use this lesson to start a discussion with your students about teaching and learning in the digital age.

Recommended for:

Grades: 8-12

Subjects: Media literacy, SEL, social studies, ELA

Prep for teachers Preview the video Distance Learning Isn't All Bad ... Is It? from KQED’s Above the Noise and look over the discussion questions below. Make a copy of the Are There Benefits to Distance Learning? Google Doc handout. (Tip: Before distributing to your students, customize the handout to your class's needs.) Review the Think, Puzzle, Explore thinking routine from Project Zero’s Visible Thinking Resources. In the classroom Hook (8-10 minutes):

Before screening the video, give your students an essential question to focus their viewing: Should remote learning remain an option for some students after the pandemic?

If you haven't already, distribute the handout and ask students to use it to take notes as they watch. Explain that they can fill in the three columns at any point during or after watching the video.

Show the video Distance Learning Isn't All Bad ... Is It? Consider pausing at various points throughout and/or screening the video more than once to aid in students' understanding.

Pressing play on the YouTube video will set third-party cookies controlled by Google if you are logged in to Chrome. See Google's cookie information for details.

Discussion (20 minutes):

Start off by asking students to share what they wrote down on the Are There Benefits to Distance Learning? handout. Continue the discussion using any or all of the questions and prompts below:

How does remote learning affect or change the classroom environment? What are some positives? What are some downsides? Are there some things that simply must be learned in person, and can't be learned online? Are some subjects more or less conducive to online learning than others? Should it be mandatory for these classes and activities to be held in person? At what age do you think students are ready to get the most out of online learning? Should all students and families have the freedom to choose between fully in-person, hybrid, or fully online learning? Do you think state governments and school districts should set guidelines to determine who is allowed to learn from home and who must attend in person? If so, what guidelines might be necessary? If online learning becomes a larger part of public education going forward, how might this affect things like a school's sense of community and identity? How might it affect things like sports and the arts? In the debate between online and in-person learning, what are the implications for students' social skills? What about for students' life skills and family lives? How might online learning help (or not help) students prepare for college and the workplace? Possible follow-ups: Why Some Kids Are Thriving During Remote Learning: Read this article from Edutopia with your class, and then ask them to consider and brainstorm other ways that schools might be more flexible in meeting the needs of all students. What We Know About How Remote Work Changes Us: Have students read this article from CNBC, and consider the ways that remote learning may be similar to or different from remote work. Re-Imagining the Office and Work Life After COVID-19: Share this article from McKinsey & Company and ask students to consider what school and work life may be like in the wake of the pandemic. Investigation activity: During the pandemic, most schools turned to a variety of tech tools and educational software. But when it comes to learning, some of these tools and learning apps are undoubtedly better than others. Ask students to reflect and investigate: What types of digital learning tools worked, and which ones didn't? Have your students come up with their own criteria for what makes a digital learning tool effective. Then ask them to use these criteria to rate the tools they've used. Why were some better than others? Are there any tools that they'd like to continue using, even after in-person learning resumes?

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Which Remote Learning Tools Will Teachers Bring Back In Person?

Which Remote Learning Tools Will Teachers Bring Back In Person? — Mon, 19 Apr 21 15:32:00 -0700

The coronavirus pandemic has come with specific challenges for teachers: Keeping students engaged during hybrid or fully remote learning, addressing systemic inequity and the digital divide, and coping with days of seemingly endless multitasking are just a few among so many other obstacles. As a high school English teacher, I've experienced most of these bumps in the road myself.

But despite myriad struggles, teaching during the pandemic has also brought to light some positive aspects. In the face of concerning trends in students' mental health, some teachers have discovered the importance of incorporating social and emotional learning into classroom practice. Others have discovered just how important their own self-care is.

And, of course, as digital tools have become essential for teaching and learning, teachers everywhere have discovered new tools they hadn't used before the shift to remote learning. But which of these tools will we continue to use after the return to in-person instruction?

Here are some insights I've compiled, from both Common Sense's Editorial team as well as a group of teachers who realized how some digital tools and teaching practices have shaped learning in new and positive ways.

Changing trends in how teachers and students use technology

Unsurprisingly, the pandemic made certain digital tools essential for teaching and learning. Like many teachers in this upended environment, I've been on a quest to find tools with both utility and consistency for my classroom. For example, at the beginning of the year, I toggled between using Google Meet and Zoom as a video platform until I realized that integrating Google Meet with Google Classroom solved some issues (for me, at least).

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In talking with Common Sense Education's editors, internal traffic and page-view metrics showed that certain digital tools and apps had become much more widely searched since the beginning of the pandemic. This probably reflects teachers' and students' shifting needs during remote learning, and the idea that many teachers were experimenting with new types of tools.

As teachers and students adapted to remote learning, a number of tools saw huge increases in search traffic on the Common Sense Education site: Google's Jamboard, an interactive whiteboard app; Lalilo, a K–2 literacy program; and Mathgames, which has games and quizzes aligned to the Common Core Standards.

But for me, the more interesting question isn't so much which tools teachers have been using, but how they’ve been using them -- this question of implementation gets at the heart of the edtech tools that have worked so far, and the kind of instruction that might be worth continuing once in-person instruction resumes.

Improving student feedback with digital tools

As a visual arts teacher at Ballard High School in Louisville, Kentucky, Mike Sturgeon has always valued giving his students quality feedback, whether during informal classroom rounds or more formal art critiques. As much as he's missed the in-person instruction over the past year, he admits that he's appreciated how easy it is to give students feedback in Google Classroom. "It is a little difficult because it can get wordy sometimes. But just the ability to just say, 'Hey, this is exactly what I was looking for,' or 'Have you considered doing this?' goes a long way with the kids," Sturgeon says.

Like Sturgeon, I miss the informal interactions of giving kids feedback and community-building in a "normal" classroom. But I agree that it’s a lot easier to give kids organized feedback with a tool like Google Classroom or a learning management system (LMS).

"I've discovered how great [Google Classroom] is for giving immediate and meaningful feedback to students. They've gotten better at checking for feedback too." —Sue Darpino, Endicott, New York

Sue Darpino, a high school health teacher in Endicott, New York, agrees, noting that her students have really seemed to benefit from the feedback loop she's able to facilitate. "I had used Google Classroom a little before this year, but I’ve discovered how great it is for giving immediate and meaningful feedback to students. They’ve gotten better at checking for feedback too. I love that it allows for students to submit things multiple times. I have more students doing revisions now than ever before," Darpino writes on Facebook.

Teaching with shared documents and live instruction

Social studies teacher Joe Franzen of Cuba-Rushford Middle-High School in Cuba, New York, has had the challenge of concurrent teaching, or working with both in-person and remote students all year. For Franzen and others in the same boat, finding strategies that simultaneously engage both in-person and remote students is difficult. "One of the really cool things that I stumbled on is using shared Microsoft documents in real time with classes," Franzen says, adding that it's a great way for students to participate in a low-stakes way while he's introducing new concepts.

For example, in previous years, if Franzen was providing direct instruction on the origins and types of political cartoons, he wasn't always sure if students were on task. His students would be on their iPads, ostensibly taking notes on their own. Now, he says, with the same lesson students at home and in-person can "actively contribute to the classwork in a collaborative space, without interrupting or without me thinking [students] are off-task on their devices." He created a Microsoft document where students could add their own questions or examples of cartoons in real time as he instructs, creating a more engaging lesson for all.

Using shared documents during live practice or instruction is a strategy I've also used as an English teacher. When introducing and practicing sentence structures and variety, for example, I'll create a shared Google Doc, project it on the whiteboard, and have students practice and receive feedback from me and from each other. By framing this type of public practice as an opportunity to learn with and from each other, student engagement and focus usually improves. As a bonus, this type of instruction and assessment also gives me some relief from formally collecting and assessing so much work.

Screencastify and the power of voice

Based on Common Sense's review traffic, one of the top tools this past year was Screencastify, a screen recording tool with a huge range of instructional applications. I've used it to record a variety of different screencasts for students. Among other things, I can explain annotations on students' writing, or give more detail about assignments I've posted on Google Classroom. I've also asked students to record themselves reading drafts of their own writing. And because some students have such anxiety about presenting or speaking aloud in a live setting, Screencastify may offer an alternative and more appealing route to communication practice.

Darpino is also a fan of the tool -- she's recorded a variety of presentations and lessons with Screencastify to help frontload activities. "I'd present slides and give [students] the basic information that they needed to complete some work on their own, like reviewing directions [or] showing them resources," she says.

What's next for technology in America's classrooms?

As schools and districts emerge from the pandemic, we're likely to see a wide range of different schedules and learning models develop. Schools and districts across the country are diverse in how they operate, and they'll probably also be diverse in the types of digital tools and teaching strategies they'll adopt as we all return to some sense of normalcy. For everyone eager to resume teaching in-person, it's safe to say that the pandemic has given us countless hours of practice with digital tools. And that's something that should help us -- and our students -- well into the future.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Virtual Field Trips Full of Learning Potential

Virtual Field Trips Full of Learning Potential — Wed, 31 Mar 21 16:14:00 -0700

There's nothing quite like a field trip: That legendary day when permission slips grant students golden tickets to an experience outside the classroom.

Although virtual field trips don't physically bring kids to new locations, they make use of the web and video to amplify online learning in an experiential way. And at their best, virtual field trips can be transporting, informative, and inspiring.

So where do you start? You might already have a topic in mind, which will narrow your choices. However, you'll also want to consider what type of virtual field trips to try. Here’s a breakdown of the different kinds of experiences out there. You can jump to each section using the links below:

Livestreaming means students watch a live feed from a camera in another location. Interestingly, these are most often focused on animals. Interactive exploration offers students a multimedia experience that's usually more hands-on and open-ended. Video visits take kids to a location (by video) where a host or narrator provides information. Scheduled and guided virtual field trips feature a live guide or museum docent -- often on site -- who takes students through the experience virtually.

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Using livestreams for virtual field trips

If you want kids to practice their observation skills, this is the way to go. Plus, there's something truly amazing about opening a window and seeing an elephant drinking from a watering hole in Africa -- right now. The immediacy of real-time footage captures something an edited video can't, and watching animals in their own environments is a great observation opportunity for students of all ages.

One of the best things about these livestreams is that they connect kids to the pace of nature. Unlike an edited movie that highlights an exciting narrative, these cams show the everyday, sometimes mundane moments. Acknowledge and explore that with kids! Here are some great livestreaming sites to consider:

Explore.org

Suggested grades: Elementary to middle school

Explore.org streams from cameras pointed at animal habitats and enclosures around the world. From kittens playing at a rescue sanctuary to bears feasting on salmon in Katmai Park, there are almost 100 livestreams going at any given time. While many of the cams are consistently lively, plenty of others (mostly the wildlife cams) have empty airtime that isn't showing any animals. Also, the livestreams change with the seasons, so students could catch timely events, like gray seal whelping, puffin nesting, or salmon running. Each camera features information that includes a location, its features, the focus of the livestream, a map, and more. Occasionally, scientists host events to answer questions live. And just so you don't miss anything, there's a clickable banner that shows when something noteworthy is happening on another camera.

Using Explore.org for virtual field trips:

Of course, the site is great when teaching scientific concepts, like observation and inquiry, but students can also use their observations to write stories, create art, do research, or practice map skills based on the live footage. Pairing it with the San Diego Zoo resources (see below) to compare and contrast wild vs. captive animals could also get kids thinking.

For pre-readers, you can choose a few cameras to visit, depending on how active the scene is. To practice observation, have kids pay attention to what they can see and hear. (Some channels have better sound than others.) Find out what kids know already about a particular animal, and then read the information the channel provides. You can also build the site into a bigger unit on a particular habitat or animal, like the African forests or the elephant. Watch videos, read books, and observe elephants doing their thing live!

Older students can practice more sophisticated observation and inquiry and may have more tolerance to work with the potential lack of action. They can choose a channel to observe over time, or they can incorporate their observations into a research project. If they have the equipment and access to nature, they could also experiment with setting up a camera to observe local wildlife.

San Diego Zoo

Suggested grades: Elementary school

The zoo has set up cameras with a good view of 13 different animal enclosures, including the platypus, koalas, and penguins. Similar to Explore.org, the live feeds show the animals' behavior in real time (though there's no sound), and the site gives information about each species. However, in this case, the zoo can give very specific information about each animal and, in most cases, how they ended up at the zoo. There's an informational page about each species, including links to the sounds they make and a blog that tracks specific events in the zoo animals' lives.

In the Conservation section of the information page, kids can learn about any threats a specific species faces and what's being done to help them. Be aware that there are pop-ups requesting donations, so kids will have to click to close them, and some exhibits have corporate sponsoring information included.

Using the San Diego Zoo for virtual field trips:

All the possibilities that apply to Explore.org apply here as well, but the San Diego Zoo additionally provides lots of information that gives kids more background and lets them connect to specific animals. You could just visit once, or you could set a specific time to check in with students' chosen animals each week -- or every day -- to note their observations. The additional information is also a great springboard for other research. As mentioned above, kids can also compare the live feeds of wild animals to captive ones, especially since there's some overlap in species.

Smithsonian's National Zoo

Suggested grades: Early elementary school

This site has only four live cameras that include elephants, pandas, lions, and even a naked mole rat. Some of the cameras have accompanying FAQs and social sites to follow, but not all. What sets this site apart, however, are the printable activities you can download. Aimed at early readers, the resources serve as fun companions to the site.

Using Smithsonian's National Zoo for virtual field trips:

This site comes with printable activities, which is an obvious, one-time extension of the experience. Older kids could also compare and contrast different zoos using criteria they generate, and the livestreams could provide one data point.

Other Livestreams to check out: Monterey Bay Aquarium - Livestreams of otters, penguins, jellies, and more. California Academy of Sciences - Livestreams of penguins, their reef lagoon exhibit, and even images from the Farallon Islands. Using interactive exploration for virtual field trips

Interactive exploration gives kids a bit more agency to poke around at their own pace, follow their interests, and maybe do some research for a jigsaw or flipped classroom activity. It can also offer some pretty impressive interactivity that other experiences don't. Depending on the topic, it's generally best for older elementary, middle, or high school students. Here are some great interactive explorations to consider for your classroom:

Google Arts & Culture

Suggested grades: Middle and high school

Truly, there are few sites like this one, and with so many experiences available it's difficult to narrow it down. The elements with the best possibilities for a virtual field trip are in the Places and Museums categories. A mind-blowing number of countries and cities are represented, and each has collections and stories -- sometimes numbering in the thousands. You can further organize those by popularity or historical timeline. You can even sort museum collections by color! It may take some digging to find exactly what you want, but try some of the ideas below if you're short on time.

Read our review of Google Arts & Culture

Using Google Arts & Culture for virtual field trips:

If you're starting a unit on Shakespeare and want an exciting way to pepper in some moments that go beyond the page, check out Performing Shakespeare to experience 360° excerpt videos from the Royal Shakespeare Company, or rifle through the prop trunk at the Globe. Something like the Street Art feature can lead to discussions about multiple forms of expression, representation of community, or the many ways people can be activists. With the Wonders of Mexico feature (or any other similar one), you can dive into all the elements that make a place what it is: the history, the art, the traditions, and more.

And with nearly infinite possibilities, you can come at the site from myriad angles. Try honing persuasive skills by letting kids research some famous works of art and argue what elements make a piece of art "great." Or have kids record their reactions to specific colors in art and then see if their reactions line up with science. If they look using the timeline feature, they could use the exhibits from that period to make their research come alive. Or -- if you want to flip the classroom -- turn kids loose, let them follow their passions, and then have them teach the class about something they researched on the site within the parameters you set.

National Geographic

Suggested grades: Middle and high school

You know it, you love it -- National Geographic has a ton of resources for teachers. There are articles, videos, activities, and more, and there's something for all grade levels. With Travel, Animals, Science, and History & Culture as topics to explore, teachers can take the content in a lot of directions. And, with a brand this huge, you can also find full-length shows, video series, and even a podcast. Though there are loads of videos you can use to virtually take kids somewhere else, the interactive experiences are exceptional.

Read our review of National Geographic

Using National Geographic for virtual field trips:

Using a resource like Women: A Century of Change -- a photography exhibit celebrating women all over the world -- teachers can focus on history, social studies, photography, or some combination. Kids see a video introduction and then "walk" the halls viewing the photographs and reading the captions. Because the exhibit is broken into themed parts, teachers can assign specific chunks to groups to record their impressions and the photographs' links to history or culture. To practice writing, kids could focus on the section labels and write about how the photos embody characteristics of strength, joy, or beauty. Of course, students could create their own exhibits themed around your objectives. (Note: there's a brief flash of a photo of a naked woman in a bathtub holding her baby, though her full body isn't visible).

The exhibit featuring the world's largest cave is truly immersive and gives teachers lots to work with. With each click, you advance on your journey and can hear the sounds of each place. Students can read the sidebar to get more information about each section of the cave. This experience would be a great way to get kids excited about whatever scientific concepts you want to cover: cave features, biomes, unique habitats, geology, and more. It could also be a unique way to practice descriptive writing, focusing on sensory details.

Other interactive experiences to check out: Ellis Island Tour from Scholastic - Clickable map, a video tour, photos, audio interviews with people who arrived on Ellis Island, archival video, interviews with young immigrants, a Teacher Activity Guide, and more. Yosemite - Clickable map, immersive audio, and facts about each spot. The site also features some live webcams. #metkids - Clickable map and a side bar that invites kids to watch a video, discover background information, imagine the history of artifacts, and create something themselves. Using video visits for virtual field trips

Video visits can be a great option because they give teachers some flexibility around timing and delivery. They're similar to a guided tour that a class might get as a group, but you can pause it to break up the tour with discussions or activities. Because they aren't as text heavy, and because many video visits have a closed captioning option (that may or may not be translatable), they tend to be more accessible than many online exhibits or interactive explorations. Here are some great video visits to consider for your classroom:

Super Simple

Suggested grades: Kindergarten and first grade

Super Simple has a lot of great resources for little kids, including songs, activities, and printables. Caitie's Classroom is a collection of field trip videos that give kids a window into a wide variety of places and experiences, including things like a wind farm, a fire station, and an apiary. The videos are about four to eight minutes long, on average, and cover topics little kids love. Though they're colorful and cut from scene to scene, they're calmly paced. And Caitie is friendly and appealing, but not over-the-top goofy in an effort to keep kids' attention.

Using Super Simple for virtual field trips:

These mini-trips would be a way to break up the day and convey information about specific topics in a kid-friendly way. You could have a dino-themed day with dinosaur books and activities, and the field trip can be a transition from one part of the day to another. The field trip about bees and honey-making offers lots of opportunities for kids to learn: They can do a pollination activity, spreading glitter from one flower to another, and do a waggle dance!

NASA

Suggested grades: Elementary school

The website in its entirety has a ton to explore, including citizen science opportunities and STEM lessons, but the videos of astronauts in the space station are pretty stellar. Not only is it mind-blowing to see the astronauts actually floating around the station, but also they answer the questions everyone wants to ask (how do you go to the bathroom?) in a relatable way that humanizes abstract science. There are only four video tours of the space station itself, but they're packed with a lot of wide-ranging information.

Using NASA's website for virtual field trips:

These videos would work well after already introducing and delving into some substantive information about astronomy, space exploration, or the International Space Station itself. Once kids have some background about what astronauts are doing up there, they can choose an element that's particularly interesting to them, like the suits, the projects, or the living conditions. Discussions about space are also great opportunities to do some math, like what's the average number of days an astronaut spends on the space station. You could also put together an investigation of interesting places to live that aren't easily inhabited, like the Arctic, the desert -- and space.

Other video visits to check out: Museum of the Revolutionary War - Videos about war including classroom kit featuring key vocabulary and discussion questions. Tech Interactive - Video split into chapters that also has accompanying teacher materials. Kids follow their tween guides to see the exhibits and meet a diverse group of technologists and scientists who create and use all kinds of technology. Jared Owens Animation YouTube Channel - Animations will take students to places in ways they can only go through his unique deconstruction of them. For instance, the video about the Burj Khalifa -- the tallest building in the world -- reveals the feats of engineering that made the structure possible. Using scheduled and guided virtual field trips

Finally, if you want a virtual field trip that's scheduled and has a live guide to take your class through the experience, there are plenty to try. Just make sure you have a reliable internet connection!

AMES Exploration Encounter - NASA-sponsored program that discuss physics, space, and more. Exploring by the Seat of Your Pants - Live programs (mostly STEM-focused) you can register for and tune into at the scheduled time. Learn Around the World - Live and recorded programs focused on global awareness. Empatico - Scheduled connection with another classroom elsewhere in the world.

Lead image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

3 Free Worksheets to Help Students Get the Most Out of Virtual Field Trips

3 Free Worksheets to Help Students Get the Most Out of Virtual Field Trips — Wed, 31 Mar 21 12:39:00 -0700

As the pandemic wanes, in-person field trips may start to resume. But over the past year many teachers also discovered that virtual field trips have a lot to offer -- from museums to the International Space Station, these online excursions can take kids places they may otherwise never get to go.

For students to get the most out of virtual field trips, teachers will want to establish objectives and give kids whatever context they'll need. These graphic organizers can help students keep track of their observations, connections, and critical thinking before, during, and after the experience. Check out these printables for grades K-2, 3-5, and 6-8 to see if they fit your needs. Feel free to copy and customize!

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Virtual Field Trip Worksheet for Grades K–2

Use this simple handout to encourage younger students to observe, using all their senses, and then write or draw what they noticed.

Virtual Field Trip Worksheet for Grades 3–5

Older elementary students can use a KWL format to tap into prior knowledge, identify what they're curious about, keep track of observations, and note what they've learned. They can also decide what they might want to learn next.

Virtual Field Trip Worksheet for Grades 6–8

Middle schoolers can write more extensively about their discoveries and make connections. Then they can dig in deeper to one or more connections and identify what they're still curious about.

For high schoolers, you probably have a pretty specific learning goal in mind. But feel free to take and adapt any of the worksheets above to suit your needs.

Looking for more virtual or online field trip ideas? Be sure to check out our editors' picks for some of the best virtual field trip sites on the web.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

6 Free Tools for Teaching About Climate Change

6 Free Tools for Teaching About Climate Change — Wed, 24 Mar 21 02:00:00 -0700

As part of the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS), students need to "ask questions to clarify evidence of the factors that have caused the rise in global temperatures over the past century." Yet, many teachers have little to no formal training in how to teach about climate change. Along with the ever-changing research and the controversy that comes with it, it's understandable that some teachers may shy away from the content, or even prevent students from digging in too deep.

Some have suggested that teachers might be getting climate change all wrong. While teachers often can't rely on books to stay current with all the new research, digital resources can be an effective way to stay on top of such a dynamic field. Consider these practices when using technology to teach about climate change:

Students must use models to understand the fundamental processes that help shape Earth's climate. Just as scientists have long argued the causes of global temperature rise, students should be holding those same debates. Students need hands-on time with data to practice interpreting real evidence and arriving at their own conclusions.

Here are five classroom-ready tools that incorporate these practices so you can help your students become true climate change scientists.

Give students a comprehensive look MIT Climate Science, Risk & Solutions Price: Free Platform: Web Grades: 9–12

MIT Climate Science, Risk & Solutions is an interactive, online textbook from MIT that can be used as a supplemental resource for high school teachers approaching the topic with their classes. The site offers a historical timeline, graphs, and images to tackle the science, and the slick interactive features will be engaging to teens. Students can scroll through the entire text, or jump among the topics, which are divided into sections: Climate Science, Climate Change, Risk, and Solutions. Each chapter uses different elements to engage students; read-aloud sections, interactive graphs, and short quizzes help break up the dense text.

Read our review of Climate Science, Risk & Solutions.

Explore satellite evidence NASA Global Climate Change - Vital Signs of the Planet Price: Free Platform: Web Grades: 6–12 NASA Global Climate Change is a go-to site for beautiful expert climate content. While the site is mostly for reference, the well-designed content is engaging enough to make the experience rich and approachable. Beginners can get only the facts, while advanced learners can dig deep into the dynamic data; everyone will enjoy the visuals. Images of Change allows students to compare satellite images of glaciers for evidence of warming, and geoscience data will help students master the NGSS performance expectations. Read our review of NASA Global Climate Change - Vital Signs of the Planet

Engage early learners Climate Kids - NASA's Eyes on the Earth Price: Free Platform: Web Grades: 3–6 Students don't need to wait until middle school to learn about climate change, so NASA has created a site that will appeal to young learners. Climate Kids tackles topics similar to those on its companion site, NASA Global Climate Change, but amps up the engagement through cartoons and games. In addition to digital content, Climate Kids has resources to get kids building and designing. The Climate Change Time Machine interactive allows students to travel through time and see mapped evidence of sea-ice and carbon-emission changes. Read our review of Climate Kids - NASA's Eyes on the Earth. Build empathy Global Oneness Project Price: Free; toolkits available for purchase Platform: Web Grades: 9–12 The Global Oneness Project houses resources that explore life experiences around the world. One of their collections deals with the impact of climate change on people and communities. Through a series of films, photo essays, and articles, students can be witnesses to the ecological challenges affecting small island nations and other cultures. This collection not only provides evidence of a changing world but also helps build empathy toward other people. Read our review of Global Oneness Project. Analyze real data Earth-Now Price: Free Platform: App Grades: 6–12 As part of the NGSS Science and Engineering Practice "Analyzing and Interpreting Data," students need to work with real data sets to better construct arguments and make meaning. Earth-Now is a hub for current climate data obtained from Earth satellites. Through the app, students can manipulate color scales on a 3D model of Earth and see up-to-date reports for air temperature, carbon dioxide, sea level, and other climate factors. Interpreting real evidence will help students make sense of potential global issues and can be a great supplemental tool in the classroom. Read our review of Earth-Now. Inspire action Our Climate Our Future Price: Free Platform: Web Grades: 6–12 Our Climate Our Future motivates and empowers students to learn about and take action on climate change. Through videos, animations, activities, and more, students can study and discuss the science of climate change, the sources of the change's acceleration, the history of our planet's climate, actions already being taken, growing climate science fields, and what students themselves can do to help. The site teaches that all students can take action against further climate change. Read our review of Our Climate Our Future.

4 SEL Strategies for the Transition Back to In-Person Learning

4 SEL Strategies for the Transition Back to In-Person Learning — Fri, 12 Mar 21 15:12:00 -0800

This article was co-authored by Daniel Vargas-Campos.

As we make the transition from distance learning back into the classroom, teachers are facing a whole new set of challenges related to students' social and emotional well-being and mental health. New research from Common Sense has found that the number of teens and young adults who report feeling depressed has grown significantly throughout the pandemic, something that schools will need to reckon with during the return to in-person learning.

Building close relationships with students is an integral part of teaching that creates a school culture that's inclusive, fosters personal and academic growth, and encourages positive social behavior. And we know that students' social and emotional well-being can have a direct impact on their academic success. But what does this work look like during the complicated process of reopening schools after a year (or more) of distance learning?

Looking at the return to in-person learning through an SEL lens

For a classroom teacher, it may be easy to think, "I have so much content to cover -- isn't a daily check-in enough?" Things like daily SEL icebreakers are a step in the right direction, and individual counseling options are a crucial support for those who need them. But it's also important to rethink how we meet students' social and emotional needs through the day-to-day, academic aspects of our teaching. For example, some students may struggle to stay focused after spending so much time in front of screens. For others, collaborative work could feel awkward, whether it's with peers joining class online or with those physically next to them in the classroom.

Here are four ways to support students' social and emotional well-being during the transition from online to in-person learning -- each tied to core SEL competencies from the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL):

1. Consider how students' digital lives are changing.

CASEL competency: self-awareness: As students and families acclimate to shifting school schedules, many will struggle with changes in routine and the loss of whatever daily online habits they'd settled into during distance learning. Returning to school in person will also mean navigating new, or altered, physical environments with a mask, and following a variety of other safety protocols. Some students could even feel like they're experiencing withdrawals from their digital lives.

Regardless of whether students are learning in person or online, consider teaching one (or more) of the Media Balance & Well-Being lessons from our Digital Citizenship Curriculum as a way to get kids thinking critically about the impacts of their media use.

Online strategies:

Encourage students to talk about the at-home routines they’ve developed for starting and finishing class time during remote learning. Help kids to think through these experiences, including the emotions they might feel during these times of transition. You could even have students come up with their own personalized social-emotional checklists to review before classes start. Help them think through how they might use a checklist like this, both during distance learning and once they start attending in person again.

In-person strategies:

Introduce CASEL's self-awareness competency and encourage students to check in with themselves each morning before heading to school. As an additional check-in prompt, consider asking students to identify ways that they might balance their media use. Possible prompts could include:

How can you reduce your time in front of a device or a screen before you go to sleep? What are some positive parts of your digital life that you could bring into the classroom? When you have the urge to be online during class, what can you do instead? 2. Acknowledge students' contributions.

CASEL competency: social awareness: Think back to the last time you were complimented in an online space: Perhaps a colleague used one of your teaching strategies, or maybe a student unmuted and shared how much they loved one of your learning activities. Did that compliment make you more aware of that person's presence?

As students return to in-person learning, consider incorporating social-awareness activities into your teaching. Think about the types of affirmations you can model for students to help them be more aware of their social surroundings.

While general compliments can help students feel validated, remember that teaching our students how to observe and affirm their peers' contributions -- in both in-person and online spaces -- helps create an inclusive and positive learning environment. Often, what might seem like a minor act of recognition or validation can be the difference between whether a student engages in your class or checks out.

Try these additional strategies to help students practice recognizing and validating each other's presence in class:

Online strategies: Ask students to acknowledge the contributions of a peer or classmate. Use a compliment tool to weave affirmations into your online class discussions or assignments. Create a community-presence award, highlighting students who observe and affirm their peers in a genuine way. In-person strategies: Have students create a classroom charter outlining the type of community that they want to create. From question asking to positive group collaboration, naming and validating these learning qualities can go a long way for students. Be strategic in how you praise students. Don't only praise those who seem to need the most support; also praise those who seem likely to take the exercise to heart and pass other praise on to their peers. If you're teaching a "concurrent" or hybrid class, give students in the physical classroom opportunities to validate the contributions of students who are online, and vice versa.

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3. Recalibrate your expectations around student engagement.

CASEL competency: self-management: As we move back toward in-person instruction, getting through your subject matter content will be the biggest priority. But remember that you'll probably need to recalibrate your expectations around students' ability to stay engaged. As you teach, keep track of the activities that are engaging to students, as well as the things that are getting in the way of their learning. Go ahead and share these observations with your class, and ask for their input and observations, as well. What's engaging? What isn't? Which strategies can they think of to stay more engaged?

Encourage students to think about how they feel when they get lost or fall behind. How did they deal with these situations at home? How should they deal with these situations as they come back into the physical classroom? Encourage kids to become cognizant of their own engagement and learning progress, and help them think of strategies to use in managing their own learning.

Lastly, online learning tools like Google Classroom can make it easier to clearly communicate the day's learning goals, assignments, and materials with students -- don't let this fall by the wayside as in-person instruction resumes! As we know, when students are clear about what they need to do, they're a lot more likely to stay engaged and succeed. Here are some tips to try:

Online strategies: Make sure that students can easily find and read your daily plans and class materials. Even though you've probably already covered it at the beginning of the school year, take time to periodically remind students of where to find everything they'll need. Check in individually with students and their families. Ask them to share their own strategies for staying engaged in class during remote learning. Remind students to use online tools (like the "raise hand" button on Zoom, for example) to ask questions or alert you if they're lost or need help getting reengaged. In-person strategies: Collaborate with students to identify ways to manage emotions around keeping up with the curriculum. Be explicit about what you want students to learn and accomplish throughout the day, and offer clear and consistent reminders. Give students space to reflect on how they feel after returning to the classroom. Tools like Flipgrid work well for distance learning, but they're also great for helping students feel heard, even during in-person learning. You can use this kind of quality, authentic feedback as part of your assessment and grading process. 4. Make SEL part of your family outreach and family-teacher conferences.

CASEL competency: relationship skills: Maintaining positive relationships with your students and their families is critical for kids to be successful in returning to school. While distance learning has strained family-teacher connections, students still need to know that their efforts are affirmed and their achievements are amplified. Use these check-in prompts at your next family-teacher meeting:

Which parts of distance learning -- or the transition back to in-person learning -- have caused you stress? Do you have what you need in order to feel successful as a family? What could we all do to ensure that you feel cared for and supported?

For students who are experiencing both fatigue from being online and anxiety associated with returning to school, frequent and shorter check-ins with students and their families can help. The coronavirus pandemic has been painful for many families, and it's unclear how long the disruptions to school will last. But we should learn from it what we can. By intentionally and explicitly cultivating students' social-emotional competencies, we can support students in ways that set them up for success, both now and during future challenges.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Reduce Student Anxiety (and Your Own) During Uncertain Times

Reduce Student Anxiety (and Your Own) During Uncertain Times — Mon, 08 Mar 21 01:00:00 -0800

As the coronavirus pandemic moves into its second year, many students, teachers, and families face uncertainty about when, or how, their schools will make the transition to hybrid or, eventually, fully in-person learning. The dynamic nature of the pandemic -- not to mention everything from vaccine misinformation to highly politicized debates around school reopenings -- can make for a lot of confusion for everyone, especially kids. As many of us prepare for some form of transition back into the classroom, it's easy for students to find themselves confused or worried as they try to make sense of what's happening.

To help reduce students' anxiety and your own about pandemic-related changes in school, we've put together some ideas and resources focused on news literacy, media balance, and healthy communication. We hope they're helpful as you continue to navigate these challenging times.

Talk about it

Avoiding conversations about what's happening will only increase students' anxiety. It's important for kids of all ages to talk through what they're hearing and get developmentally appropriate information from a trusted adult. Helpful resources to try:

Explaining the News to Our Kids How to Talk to Kids About Difficult Subjects Focus on the facts

For many students, anxiety about the pandemic can be exacerbated by incomplete or incorrect information. Whether it's about COVID safety, the vaccine, or your school or district's plan for reopening, help students talk through the facts about it in an age-appropriate way. For older students, you can share the CDC's website for the most up-to-date information. Helpful resources to try:

Most Reliable and Credible Sources for Students News Literacy Resources for Classrooms Build critical-thinking and news literacy skills

Social media can be a hotbed of rumors and misinformation -- even more so as people are acting and reacting from a place of fear or partisan interest. Guide students to credible news sources and encourage them to fact-check what they see on social media or hear from their friends. If you have time to add some news literacy instruction, consider teaching a lesson so kids can practice these skills. For older students, in addition to our digital citizenship lessons, we have a collection of short, video- and discussion-based news and media literacy activities. From our curriculum, here are some helpful lessons to try (modify for target grade as needed):

Is Seeing Believing? (grade 3) Reading News Online (grade 5) Finding Credible News (grade 6) This Just In! (grade 8) Hoaxes and Fakes (grade 9) Challenging Confirmation Bias (grade 10) Clicks for Cash (grade 11) Filter Bubble Trouble (grade 12) Model and encourage media balance

With round-the-clock updates about the pandemic, we may be compelled to keep up with the latest headlines. But a constant stream of updates can often end up making us feel more uncertain or even anxious, rather than informed. It's important -- for both you and your students -- to reflect on how your media use makes you feel. We can all reflect on our media choices and make adjustments to our media use accordingly. For younger kids, the issue may simply be more time on screens in general; older students may need help considering the types of media they're consuming. Here are some helpful lessons to try (modify for target grade as needed):

Media Balance Is Important (kindergarten) Pause for People (kindergarten) How Technology Makes You Feel (grade 1) Device-Free Moments (grade 2) My Media Choices (grade 4) Finding My Media Balance (grade 5) Finding Balance in a Digital World (grade 6) Digital Media and Your Brain (grade 8) Social Media and How You Feel (grade 10) The Health Effects of Screen Time (grade 12) Stay active and have some fun

When we're feeling worried or stressed, a little distraction goes a long way. Incorporating some physical activity into the school day can be a fun way to lighten the mood. From how-to dance videos to yoga for kids, you can find easy-to-implement activities to get students' bodies moving and their minds calm. Helpful resources to try:

Movement Apps, Games, and Websites Best Health and Fitness Apps for Kids Wide Open School's curated picks for Fitness and Offline-Friendly activities Support parents and caregivers

If parents and caregivers are stressed, kids are going to pick up on it. While it's not your job to manage parents' anxiety, it is important to be mindful of its impact on your students. Keep the lines of communication open as you deal with questions about your school's transition back to in-person instruction. And pass along resources and tips for parents and caregivers to help them deal with the uncertainty of the situation in a healthy way. Helpful resources to share:

Help Your Family De-Stress During Coronavirus Uncertainty Apps and Websites for Improving Parent-Teacher Communication Wide Open School's Parent & Caregiver Guides

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Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Can We Understand Health and Science News from Headlines Alone?

Can We Understand Health and Science News from Headlines Alone? — Fri, 26 Feb 21 10:49:00 -0800

New scientific research happens all the time. And it seems like every day there’s a story in the media about a stunning new discovery in the worlds of science and health. But whether it's the latest research on COVID-19 vaccines or a study about the effects of screen time on kids, not all media report on science and health news in the same ways.

For example, where one headline may tout the health benefits of coffee, another paints a much different picture. It’s hard to figure out what’s really going on, especially for kids. So how can we help students learn who and what to trust? Especially when it's so easy to believe headlines we agree with, regardless of what the research might say.

Use this activity to help students approach what they’re seeing in the media with a skeptical lens. From recognizing how headlines shape the way we interpret science- and health-related news to digging into actual research studies, you’ll boost your students’ health and science news literacy.

Recommended for:

Grades: 8-12 Subjects: ELA, science, newspaper/media, digital citizenship

Prep for teachers Preview the video, "Top 4 Tips to Spot Bad Science Reporting" from KQED’s Above the Noise, and look over the discussion questions. Make a copy of the "Reading Health and Science News With Skepticism" Google Doc handout. (Tip: Before distributing to your students, customize the handout to your class' needs.) Review the “I used to think …, But now I think...” thinking routine from Project Zero’s Visible Thinking website. In the classroom Hook (5-10 minutes):

Before screening the video, ask your class if they’ve noticed any recent scientific studies reported in the news. Because information about the COVID-19 pandemic will likely be dominating the news, they’ll probably bring this up. But challenge students to think about news related to scientific research (this could be about COVID-19 or otherwise).

What have they heard, and what do they think? Have they ever seen different articles that seemed to contradict each other? After a few minutes, point out that it seems like every week there’s some sort of new scientific revelation about health. From nutrition to screen time to exercise or caffeine – you name it, it's out there.

Distribute copies of the worksheet and ask students to use it to take notes. Explain that they can answer the questions “I used to think …, But, now I think...” at any point during and/or after viewing the video.

Show the video: "Top 4 Tips fo Spot Bad Science Reporting" from KQED's Above the Noise.

Pressing play on the YouTube video will set third-party cookies controlled by Google if you are logged in to Chrome. See Google's cookie information for details.

Discussion (15 minutes)

Start off by asking students to share what they wrote down on the, "Reading Health and Science News With Skepticism" worksheet. Continue the discussion using any or all of the questions and prompts below:

What is “clickbait”? As a class, come up with a definition for the term, and then ask students to share examples that they’ve noticed recently. KQED's Above the Noise created the GLAD acronym to help spot questionable science news. What are the different GLAD tips? Do you think these tips will be useful in considering science reporting in the news? When it comes to lifestyle choices, like eating or exercise, how could science news reporting impact people’s actual behavior? What is a “peer reviewed science journal”? What makes peer-reviewed research different from other research and studies? Is it useful to be skeptical about certain studies? What’s the difference between questioning an issue with scientific consensus like climate change or vaccinations, versus doubting a single, isolated study? What are some of the problems that come up when people share questionable scientific studies on social media? Possible follow-ups: Read and discuss the article, "What Skepticism Reveals About Science" from Scientific American about the scientific method, skepticism, and the search for truth. Ask students to bring in examples of science reporting headlines that they find in order to follow-up with a classwide sharing activity and analysis. Provide students with another tool -- t he CRAAP test -- in order to help them evaluate news sources. Using the examples they found, have students complete an analysis based on either KQED’s GLAD tips, and/or the CRAAP test. Looking for COVID-19-specific news and media literacy resources? Visit the News Literacy Project's COVID-19 misinformation page. Misinformation expert Mick Caulfield is hosting the webpage, Sifting Through the Coronavirus Pandemic. Subscribe to the News Literacy Project's The Sift newsletter.

Managing In-Person and Distance Learning at the Same Time

Managing In-Person and Distance Learning at the Same Time — Fri, 12 Feb 21 17:47:00 -0800

As schools begin to reopen amid the changing pandemic, many classrooms will experience some form of hybrid instruction during the transition back to fully in-person learning. Along the way, schools and districts are embracing a variety of hybrid teaching and learning models. One particular model that can work for both students and teachers is known as hyflex instruction (sometimes also called "concurrent" teaching), but to be successful you'll need to make room for some extra planning and consideration.

What is hyflex teaching?

Hyflex teaching -- also sometimes called "concurrent" teaching -- is essentially a hybrid or blended model of instruction where some students attend class in-person while other students are simultaneously remote, streaming "live" into class. First developed by Dr. Brian J. Beatty, associate professor of instructional technologies at San Francisco State University, "Hybrid-Flexible Course Design" is most commonly used at the collegiate level. More recently, during the coronavirus pandemic, a number of K-12 schools and teachers have adopted -– and adapted –- the hyflex model to accommodate the divergent needs of learners and families during school closures.

Like fully remote learning, this model can often be quite challenging in a K-12 setting. The reasons for this are plentiful, from basic internet connectivity issues to cognitive overload caused by multitasking. Not to mention the challenge of simply figuring out how your curriculum fits into this model! Toss into the mix the need to ensure students' equitable access to materials and instruction, and hyflex can feel overwhelming. But there are some basic things teachers can do to help make hyflex teaching and learning go more smoothly. We talked with several educators from across the country to hear their advice.

Tips to help you succeed with hybrid and hyflex teaching and learning in your K-12 classroom: 1. Choose tools for equitable access

It should go without saying, but all students need equitable access to materials and instruction from your classroom. This means that most hyflex classes will need to be conducted paperlessly. Also, choosing the right technology tools will be even more important than usual. Some apps and programs will be better for helping both in-person and remote students fully participate in any given lesson.

Take Peardeck, for example, which can help teachers lead interactive direct instruction. "[Peardeck] has really been a lifesaver in this situation, because it allows me to see who's working, what their answers are … and share my screen and show it to the kids, so they can see what their classmates are saying [whether they are in the same room or not]," says teacher Andrea Tyner of Kunsmiller Creative Arts Academy in Denver. Nearpod, Flipgrid, and Padlet are other popular tools that allow for both in-person and remote groups of students to access materials, participate, and interact with each other equitably during lessons and assignments.

Other teachers have been using Google Slides in creative and interactive ways that make facilitating hyflex learning more equitable, something that Adam Reynolds, principal at West Rocks Middle School in Norwalk, Connecticut, has appreciated thus far. Says Reynolds, "Teachers create a Google Slides deck, and that becomes the foundation of their lesson. So they share it. The student makes a copy and puts their name on it, and they're actually filling out the slides over the course of the lesson. The kids at home have their slides, and kids in-person have the same material," adding that it's imperative for teachers to take some intellectual risks in order to figure out how teaching and learning might work best in this environment.

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2. Manage expectations, and slow down

Don't expect to move as quickly through your lessons or to cover as much curriculum. It's simply not realistic -- or sustainable for your own mental health. Over the course of a normal school day, teachers make hundreds –- even thousands –- of decisions: How should I respond to this misbehavior? Whom should I call on? When should I wrap up my lesson? Whom can I call to cover my class so I can take a bathroom break? Should this assignment become homework? On and on, every class period, day after day.

With hyflex teaching, the number of snap judgments and split-second decisions you'll make can increase exponentially. Simply getting through a lesson can be daunting: You're juggling multiple screens, muting and unmuting both yourself and students, sharing documents, responding to chat windows -- and this is on top of the interactions with students who are physically in your classroom.

As you might with many types of hybrid instruction, take a breath and realize that curriculum expectations must shift while you're trying to execute a hyflex model. The only way to keep all the moving parts in check is to slow down –- a lot. Instead of a lesson with three activities, it might become two. Whereas you may have checked in or conferenced with everyone during one class period, now it will probably take two or three periods. Beyond curriculum pacing, it's important to acknowledge that this learning environment isn't normal or easy by any measure. Along with slowing down, teacher self-care is another important thing to consider.

3. Don't abandon partner and group work

As a safety measure, many schools have enacted strict protocols for social distancing, with desks spread apart as much as possible. This makes partner or group work challenging, but there are some workarounds.

With hyflex instruction, you can pair up in-person students with remote students in video-chat breakout rooms. Just be sure that your in-person students have headphones (to reduce audio distortion and feedback, as well as distractions). In-person and remote students can often be paired or teamed up for various types of classwork, whether it's a discussion activity, collaborating in a Google Doc, or completing a science lab, among countless possibilities.

Teachers have been experimenting with a variety of ways to utilize breakout rooms to enhance both hyflex or fully remote learning and to make breakout room time more productive. One idea that's particularly useful is splitting your class for co-teaching or tutoring opportunities. Try out some different strategies, or create your own, and figure out what works best for you and your students.

4. Make SEL a priority

Let's face it: Everything in school is more difficult during the pandemic. On top of adapting to safety measures and social distancing, normal stressors and anxieties are exacerbated. Even as the time spent on your academic curriculum may be cut short this year, it's still especially important to incorporate some social and emotional learning into our classrooms.

Humanities teacher Jessica Stargardter of West Rocks Middle School in Norwalk, Connecticut, has eliminated the academic component from the beginning of class in order to help strengthen her class community and lighten the mood. Says Stargardter, "I changed all my 'do-nows,' and now none of them are academic, which is like the opposite of what you learned [in teacher prep], right? I model a social-emotional activity on a Monday. And then I assign the rest of the week to kids to lead them." She adds that her students have already embraced this part of class.

"I changed all my 'do-nows,' and now none of them are academic." -- Jessica Stargardter, West Rocks Middle School, Norwalk, Connecticut

For more information on social and emotional learning, and for classroom-ready SEL resources, check out Common Sense's Social and Emotional Learning Toolkit and our We All Teach SEL article series for ideas on incorporating social and emotional learning into your content-area classrooms and lessons.

5. Watch out for privacy issues

As with any type of online or hybrid teaching, it's imperative to consider students' privacy. In addition to being mindful of students' data privacy, it's also important to consider students' visibility in shared online spaces. Consider the following common scenario: Eight students are in a physical classroom with the rest of the class participating remotely via Zoom or Google Meet, projected at the front of the room for all to see. During the class, a remote student uses the chat box to ask to speak with the teacher privately. In a scenario like this before the pandemic, a teacher might pull the student into the hallway, out of sight and earshot of the class. But now, the chat is being projected onto the screen –- visible to everyone physically in the classroom. So what to do?

Teachers Corey Hayes and Zach Stephenson of Merrimack Valley High School in Concord, New Hampshire, shared a few tricks they've used for safer and somewhat-private conversations with remote students in this kind of scenario. The first is to create a breakout room for remote student check-ins, Stephenson says. Secondly, it's important to be mindful of what in-person students might hear on the classroom speakers, and to use earbuds or headphones when shifting to a private conversation with a remote student. Says Hayes, "I told a [remote] student the other day, I'm going to have my headphones in and people will hear me, but no one's going to hear anything that you're saying. And I was shocked. The student [was] so much more willing to speak, and it was almost like the same way that you might take a student and just talk to them in the halls while [other students are] working."

"It was almost like the same way that you might take a student and just talk to them in the halls." -- Corey Hayes, Merrimack Valley High School, Concord, New Hampshire

Bottom line: With screens, microphones, and cameras all potentially in play, teachers need to be nimble and flexible when it comes to both in-person and virtual one-on-one conversations with students.

6. Consider media balance

One of the obvious challenges of life during COVID-19 is the dominance of screen time -- in work, in play, and certainly in school. Screen fatigue is real. Video chats are especially draining, for both students and teachers. Stargardter also schedules off-screen time for her in-person and remote students during lessons. She'll "chunk" her class time into stations, and one of the stations will provide the students with an activity during which they can turn off or ignore their devices. She says, "I've seen an increase in engagement when kids know that there's time coming [where] they don't have to be on the screen or on camera. So I'll be very explicit, like, 'OK, your camera needs to be on here, [or] you can turn your camera off for this."

Common Sense has free digital citizenship lessons on media balance and well-being for every grade level that can help students think critically about their own media choices. You can also check out these tips from EdWeek on how to reduce screen time when school is online, which include ideas like educator Caitlin Tucker’s choice board for students' offline learning activities. The board contains screen break ideas like creating a recipe, making a playlist, or designing a science experiment. Common Sense's Wide Open School website also curates "Offline-Friendly" activities from around the web that teachers and families can recommend to kids.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

Talking with Students About Shocking or Disturbing News

Talking with Students About Shocking or Disturbing News — Wed, 27 Jan 21 15:52:00 -0800

In our 24/7 breaking news world, there seems to be a new crisis every day. As news outlets compete for clicks, all of us -- including kids -- are immersed in more headlines than ever before. Unless you teach current events or social studies, most of the day's news probably won't make it into your classroom. But certain news events are just too big to ignore. When this happens, a lot of teachers ask themselves: How should I address this with my students? And, should I address this at all?

First, decide whether you should have a conversation.

For many teachers, facilitating a conversation about tragic, disturbing, or otherwise controversial news can be fraught. Before considering how to approach a discussion like this with your students, consider whether it's appropriate or necessary, as well as considering your own comfort level with having this type of conversation in your classroom. The most important consideration may be whether your students are genuinely upset or confused by the news, or need a space to process what's going on.

Note that your school or district may already have policies or resources in place to guide you in these situations. If so, you should, of course, take these into consideration. Also consider other important factors, like the nature of the event, your students' ages, and the expectations and culture of your school and community. No matter what, if any students come to class upset or seem like they need to talk, consider ways to get them the support they need, whether that's a classroom discussion or more individualized support, from either school or home.

Tips on addressing news and current events in your classroom

Kids often see and hear more of the news than we realize, whether it's at home, from friends, or on social media. Shocking or disturbing stories could be about a natural disaster, a mass shooting, racist violence, political strife, or even wall-to-wall coverage of the pandemic.

From elementary school through high school, most kids don't have the news and media literacy skills to fully understand what's happening in the world. While older teens are better at understanding current events, even they face challenges in sifting fact from opinion or weeding out misinformation. No matter their age, threatening or upsetting news can affect kids emotionally. The news can make some kids feel worried, frightened, angry, or even guilty -- feelings that can last long after the event is over. In many cases, talking about these feelings, along with clearing up any misconceptions about the news, can help. Use these tips and resources as a guide:

Be proactive. When discussing an upsetting or potentially controversial topic, it's best if you've done some classroom community-building work specific to discussing challenging topics ahead of time. At the very least, be prepared to set some basic ground rules to help students keep the conversation civil, equitable, and constructive. If you're looking for help in this area, Facing History and Ourselves has an excellent toolkit for teachers (see our list of helpful links below). Consider your own reactions. Since you're their teacher, students will look to the way you handle shocking news to guide their own reactions. Show your students that you approach the news -- even disturbing news -- thoughtfully and with critical thinking and intellectual curiosity. If you stay calm and rational, your students are more likely to do the same. Consider the diversity of backgrounds among your students. Depending on the news, different kids may react and respond differently to what they're seeing and hearing, especially given differences in family background, situation, and culture. Be mindful of your own potential biases, and remember that students may not interpret events the way we assume they would. Remind students that your classroom is an inclusive space for all voices, but also don't pressure anyone to talk unless they're comfortable doing so. Listen. Let students know that your classroom is a safe space to share and process what they're feeling, and that you're there to listen. Along the way, you can model how to approach big, complex issues in the news by asking good questions and seeking factual information. It may be necessary to address any misconceptions students have about events. In the case of news that's still breaking, it's important to encourage patience. Remind students that social media can be rife with misinformation, and that even established media outlets may run with unverified reports. Encourage positive action. Disturbing news can sometimes leave kids feeling upset or helpless. Depending on the issue and kids' ages, consider asking students how they might like to help others, and offer guidance toward resources they can use to take action toward positive change. Whether it's making donations to those in need, or writing postcards to share their opinions with elected officials, remind kids that they can indeed make a positive difference in the world.

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Age-based tips and resources for news and media literacy

Use the age-specific advice below as a guide, along with recommended news and media literacy lessons from our free Digital Citizenship curriculum.

Pre-K-2nd grade

Reassure kids that they're safe. Many kids this age can have misconceptions about their own safety. If they see something scary happening far away, or even something imaginary, they might still think that they're in danger. Images of disturbing news can be downright frightening. Avoid showing images or video of dramatic news events in class.

If students have questions, give them space to talk. Try not to minimize or discount their concerns and fears, but reassure them by explaining all the protective measures that exist to keep them safe. If the news event happened far away, you can use the distance to reassure kids. In the event that kids are experiencing threats to their safety firsthand, for example, the effects of violence, racism, or a natural disaster, recounting the news could trigger extra fear. In this case, it might be good to share a few age-appropriate tips for staying and feeling safe (sticking together, being with an adult, keeping away from any emergency activity).

Overall, while it might be necessary to address a major news event, don't belabor the discussion for too long. Depending on the situation, kids may be ready to move on with their day before we realize.

Helpful digital citizenship lessons for pre-K-2nd grade:

Media Balance Is Important: Help kids think about finding a healthy balance between media time and offline activities. Pause & Think Online: Use this song and lesson to help kids consider what's safe to view when they're online. 3rd-5th grade

Consider the variety in your students' maturity and temperament. Some kids will be able to handle a discussion about threatening events, others less so. Avoid in-class exposure to images or video of upsetting news events, which could make dangers seem greater, more prevalent, or closer to home. Also, be mindful that some kids may be experiencing threats to their safety firsthand, for example, the effects of violence, racism, or a natural disaster. Remember that certain events might feel closer to home for some kids more than others.

Create a space for conversation and kids' questions, but be ready to ask them what they know (or think they know) first. They're likely to need help thinking through potential misconceptions about what's happened -- or they may bring an important perspective that needs your validation and support. In many cases, kids may need reminders to not jump to conclusions because not all of the facts may be available yet.

Some situations could involve prejudice, bias, or civil or religious strife -- be prepared to explain some of these concepts in basic terms. But be careful about making generalizations, since kids this age will take what you say to the bank. As a teacher, you might not have an answer to every question, and that’s OK. Model good critical thinking, including the importance of being curious and seeking out quality, fact-based information.

Helpful digital citizenship lessons for 3rd-5th grade:

Is Seeing Believing?: Help kids explore the ins and outs of digitally altered images and videos online. Reading News Online: Use this foundational news literacy lesson to explore the elements of an online news article. 6th-8th grade

Create a space for conversation if kids want or need it. But be ready to ask them what they know (or think they know) first, and help kids think through any potential misconceptions about what's happened -- and be prepared to validate or support an important perspective they may bring to the table. In many cases, kids will need reminders that not all the facts may be available yet, and to not jump to conclusions.

Some situations may involve prejudice, bias, or civil or religious strife, so be prepared to explain what these concepts mean in terms your students will understand. Show kids what curiosity and good critical thinking look like. For teachers, it's OK to not have all the answers as long as we model that we're curious and actively seeking out factual information.

It's OK to talk about, and even show, some news coverage, but consider filtering any images or video that could be especially disturbing to students. Critical discussion about the nature of the news coverage itself could be valuable. Consider talking about the ways that news outlets' desire for clicks or viewership might affect their editorial and reporting decisions.

Helpful digital citizenship lessons for 6th-8th grade:

Finding Credible News: Help students consider how to find factual news and information online. This Just In!: Use this lesson to help students think critically about the breaking news they see. 9th-12th grade

Check in and give teens a space to share. If the news has made students concerned for their own safety, or if they're aware that their own lives could be affected by violence, help them address these concerns without dismissing them or minimizing them. Be mindful of how events in the news may trigger different emotions and reactions from different students, especially for those who may have experienced violence in the past.

Many examples of shocking or disturbing news can become politicized. If you open up a space for discussion, be ready for at least some of your students to be passionate, and possibly even want to debate related issues. As mentioned above, it's best if you've already done some of the necessary community building before diving into a discussion that could get heated. In any case, be sure to set some ground rules to ensure that the conversation is civil, equitable, and constructive.

Ask your students to share what they've already learned about the situation and where they’ve found their news (very often from social media), and help them think critically about their sources for breaking news and information. Encourage students to break out of their own filter bubbles to seek out quality, fact-based information before drawing any conclusions.

Helpful digital citizenship lessons for 9th-12th grade:

Hoaxes and Fakes: Learn about identifying fake images, videos, and other synthetic media online. Challenging Confirmation Bias: Help students learn to recognize their own biases when viewing news or searching for information online. Clicks for Cash: Help students consider how clickbait headlines affect how we read and interpret news. Filter Bubble Trouble: Show students the ways that social media algorithms feed us what we want to see. We Are Civil Communicators: Teach students to keep disagreements civil so everyone's ideas can be heard. Additional resources for talking with students about the news

Responding to Traumatic Events: Resources from the Child Mind Institute. Trauma Is "Written into Our Bodies" - But Educators Can Help: An interview with Dr. Nadine Burke Harris, from Edutopia. News and Media Literacy Resource Center: Our collection of the best news and media literacy resources from around the web. Teaching About Race, Racism, and Police Violence: A collection of articles and resources from Teaching Tolerance Helping Your Children Manage Distress in the Aftermath of a Shooting: An article from the American Psychological Association. Anniversaries of Traumatic Events: Guidance for Educators: Tips and resources from the National Association of School Psychologists. Building Classroom Community: Community-building lessons and resources from Facing History and Ourselves. What to Say to Kids When the News Is Scary: Advice from NPR. Explaining the News to Our Kids: An article from Common Sense Media with similar advice you can share with parents and caregivers.

Lead image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.

News Literacy Resources for Classrooms

News Literacy Resources for Classrooms — Tue, 12 Jan 21 07:09:00 -0800

News literacy is a subset of media literacy focused on helping people process and understand news media messages, to locate more factual and credible information, and to think critically about what counts as news. News literacy is also about recognizing that quality, credible, independent news and journalism are critical components of any free and democratic society. News and politics have been reshaped by social media and 24-hours news entertainment. As a result, there's a lot of crossover between what we think of as news literacy, media literacy, and digital citizenship.

In this collection, you'll find hand-picked, regularly updated resources to help you better understand and practice news literacy. At the top, there are featured resources as well as more comprehensive curricula. Then you'll find lessons, videos, downloadables, and games organized by a few key topic areas, like fact-checking, breaking news, and the ethics of journalism.

Jump down to a section

News Literacy Courses and Curricula Fact-Checking and Critical-Thinking Skills Journalism and Journalistic Ethics Breaking News, Media Manipulation, and Mis- and Disinformation Finding and Using Credible, Authoritative, and Diverse Sources Research on News and the Media News Literacy Organizations to Explore for More

= one of our favorite resources

News Literacy Courses and Curricula

The providers below offer more comprehensive resources for news literacy, from courses (from just a few hours to weeks) to a curriculum linked to a scope and sequence and standards.

Checkology (by the News Literacy Project): Free lessons focusing on fact-checking and journalistic skills, all hosted by experts. For more, check out our review. Civic Online Reasoning (by the Stanford History Education Group): This research-based curriculum features foundational lessons and smart assessments for building students' critical thinking skills. Digital Citizenship Curriculum (by Common Sense Education): Free K-12 lessons on news and media literacy. Making Sense of the News: News Literacy Lessons for Digital Citizens (by the University of Hong Kong and Stony Brook University): A six-week, distance learning course hosted on Coursera. It's best suited to educators or advanced students looking for a challenge and to dig deeper into news literacy and journalism. Navigating Digital Information (Crash Course): Excellent video series hosted by John Green and produced in partnership with MediaWise, the Poynter Institute, and the Stanford History Education Group. NewsU (by the Poynter Institute): While a lot of these courses will cost you and are more directed at adults pursuing careers in journalism, there are a few free, shorter courses that could work well for K-12 educators and students. For instance, Hands-On Fact-Checking: A Short Course is a 90-minute, free intro to fact-checking. Project Look Sharp (by Ithaca College): Over 500 lessons across all grade levels that support an open-ended, inquiry-driven approach to "media decoding." Take note that you'll need an account to access the materials.

Fact-Checking and Critical-Thinking Skills

Journalists -- and the news literate -- should have an obsession with establishing, verifying, and reporting facts. This is an important focus, as the term "fake news" is tossed around with exhausting frequency, and misinformation and disinformation seem to fill our social media feeds. The resources below will help build this drive and respect for accuracy as well as the skills to separate fact from fiction and opinion.

Websites, articles, feeds, and newsletters MediaWise YouTube channel (by MediaWise): MediaWise's YouTube channel features tons of fact-checking videos submitted by young people. The Sift (by the News Literacy Project): A weekly newsletter digest of trending stories and fact checks, focusing on viral memes and social media posts. Each newsletter also ends with tips on incorporating the content into classrooms. Web Literacy for Student Fact-Checkers (by Mike Caulfield): This ebook is a master class in a web-literate form of fact-checking that takes into account how the web and social media work and have changed information and authority for good. Lesson plans and activities Analyzing How Words Communicate Bias (Teaching Tolerance): Get students to analyze the tone, word choice, and messaging of newscasts, paying particular attention to biased language. Challenging Confirmation Bias (by Common Sense Education): Bias can cloud our critical thinking, so this lesson gets students recognizing their own biases and working with and against them. Civic Online Reasoning (by the Stanford History Education Group): These resources make it easy to teach and assess students' fact-checking abilities when it comes to things like social media posts or videos and websites. E.S.C.A.P.E. Junk News (by the Newseum): This lesson teaches students six ways to debunk bad info. InfoZones (by the News Literacy Project): Learn and categorize six types or "zones" of information, from news to propaganda. Videos 5 formas de identificar noticias falsas and 5 Ways to Spot Fake News (by Common Sense Media): This video -- available in English and Spanish -- offers your students some simple ways to pinpoint tricky -- and likely untrustworthy -- info on the web. 4 Tips to Spot Bad Science Reporting (by KQED's Above the Noise): Get some key tips for interpreting news reports on scientific studies. Help Your Students Fact-Check the Web Like Professional s (by Common Sense Education): A few key tips for teachers who want to teach more web-focused news literacy skills. How YOU Can Fact-Check the Internet (by MediaWise): This video, which supports MediaWise's teen fact-checking efforts, offers a thorough overview of fact-checking. Sort Fact from Fiction Online with Lateral Reading (by Stanford History Education Group): Learn about "lateral reading" -- a way of thinking critically that's attuned to how information works online. Why Do Our Brains Love Fake News? (by KQED's Above the Noise): Dig into the deeper reasons why we fall for fake news. Why Your Newsfeed Sucks (by SmarterEveryDay): This video features a useful think-aloud fact check of a social media post by MediaWise's Katy Byron. Handouts, infographics, and posters Civic Online Reasoning poster (by the Stanford History Education Group): This poster features three key questions: "Who's behind this information? What's the evidence? What do other sources say?" Deceptive Detective poster (by Common Sense Education): A poster for elementary school classrooms with key questions kids should ask when browsing the web. Fake or Real and Legit-O-Meter (by Common Sense Education): These two classroom posters/handouts help students determine the legitimacy of news sites. Fearless Fact-Finding student handout (by Common Sense Education): A list of useful resources for fact-checking information. Turn Students into Fact-Finding Web Detectives tip sheet for teachers (by Common Sense Education): A list of basic resources for helping students build fact-checking skills. Verifying Online Information (by First Draft): This extensive guide to fact-checking and fact-checking tools is aimed at journalists but could be useful for high school classrooms, too. Games, apps, and tools Games for Building Critical-Thinking Skills (by Common Sense Education): A list of games (not explicitly news literacy focused) that help students practice critical thinking. Informable (by the News Literacy Project): This app cleverly simulates media and helps students practice the thinking skills they need to assess the credibility of online info.

Journalism and Journalistic Ethics

Free societies and people depend on the flow of trustworthy knowledge and information. Journalists and their ethical commitments are central to this process, and the news and media they create are how citizens learn about their world. The following resources help explain the role journalists play in politics, culture, and the media, perhaps inspiring future journalists or just citizens who value ethically committed reporting.

Websites, articles, feeds, and newsletters Best News Websites for Students (by Common Sense Education): Use our list of news sources to help build a habit of news in your classroom. The Ethics of Engaged Journalism (by Michael R. Fancher): This manifesto, written by a veteran journalist, aims to evolve and re-frame journalistic ethics to rebuild public trust. Find the Facts (by TIME for Kids): Help younger kids understand how journalists verify news with this article featuring interviews with two TIME fact-checkers. Here's What Non-Fake News Looks Like (by the Columbia Journalism Review): This article breaks down what distinguishes news reports written by journalists from fake news articles and sites. Student Press Law Center: A key resource for any journalism class, this site answers a lot of questions and offers a lot of resources for student journalists. Standout resources include a public records request template (as well as FERPA templates and more) and a library of key court cases/precedents for student journalists. Teaching and Learning About Journalism (by the New York Times' Learning Network): This is a roundup of high-quality lesson plans and other resources for journalism classrooms. Lesson plans and activities Democracy's Watchdog (by the News Literacy Project): Focusing on investigative reporting, this lesson shows students the way the press has been crucial to defending democracy. Real Fake News: Exploring Actual Examples of Newspaper Bias (by Common Sense Education): This video, discussion, and activity examine the history of newspapers covering up injustice and racism against Black people, and how this coverage fails the journalistic code of ethics. Student Reporting Labs Curriculum (by PBS NewsHour): 10 project-based lessons focusing on journalism and media production. Videos The 5 Core Values of Journalism (Ethical Journalism Network): Surprisingly, there are few other credible videos on this subject, so this one fills a major void. How Journalists Minimize Bias (Facing History): This video helps explain the steps journalists take to take their bias out of reporting. Verifying the Story (Facing History): Learn how journalists work to confirm facts in the midst of breaking news stories. Handouts, infographics, and posters A Guide to Page 1 (by the New York Times): While a little dated, this poster points out the key sections of the first page of the New York Times. Journalism Ethics (by PBS NewsHour): This worksheet, part of a lesson on ethics, features Jim Lehrer's 10 Rules of Journalism for Students. Society of Professional Journalists Code of Ethics: A succinct overview of the core ethics of journalism. Games, apps, and tools NewsFeed Defenders (by iCivics and FactCheck.org): This game challenges you to manage a fictional news site's social media feed. For more, check out our review. Practicing Quality Journalism (by the News Literacy Project): Sort of a hybrid game and lesson, this experience (available in both English and Spanish) has students play the role of a reporter and learn journalistic standards.

Breaking News, Media Manipulation, and Mis- and Disinformation

The 24-hour news cycle, always-on and -around smartphones, and social media have changed what we think of when we think of news. It seems that every second some story is "BREAKING," and the result is a deluge of misinformation, disinformation, or something in between. These resources are aimed at understanding and navigating the cacophony of media manipulation surrounding news events.

Websites, articles, feeds, and newsletters Break the Fake (by MediaSmarts): This site features tons of resources, all focused on helping kids and adults fight through misinformation online. ¿Cómo enseñar a tus hijos a entender e interpretar las noticias de última hora? and Teaching Kids Media Smarts During Breaking News (by Common Sense Media): This article -- available in English and Spanish -- covers the key steps to take to not get swept up in the flurry of false and misleading info during a breaking news event. Fakeout (by TIME for Kids): This article on deepfakes is great for younger students, and includes tips you can ask your students to identify and then apply. Inside the Macedonian Fake News Complex (Wired): Sometimes "fake news" can seem like a dark, mystical force, but this on-the-ground reporting puts a human face to the struggling people who peddle misinformation just to get by. The Real "Fake News": How to Spot Misinformation and Disinformation Online (by CBC): This article offers a highly readable overview of different kinds of manipulated media, each with examples. Lesson plans and activities Facing Ferguson: News Literacy in a Digital Age (Facing History): These lessons use the Ferguson protests as a case study for exploring the difficulties of reporting on and consuming information in the wake of breaking news events. Hoaxes and Fakes (by Common Sense Education): Incorporating "lateral reading" from Sam Wineburg and Sarah McGrew's research, this lesson gets students debunking questionable information through verification and corroboration. Is Breaking News Broken on Social Media? (by Common Sense): Help your high schoolers think about and discuss the impact of social media on the news cycle with this video and lesson combo. Is This Story Share-Worthy? lesson (by the Newseum): Build good news sharing habits with this flowchart-based lesson. Misinformation (by the News Literacy Project): This is a good lesson for those looking to get up to speed on the different types of misinformation and the threat that misinformation poses. This Just In! (by Common Sense Education): Equip students with the patience and critical-thinking skills to not get swept toward misleading info during news events. Weed Out Propaganda lesson (by the Newseum) Videos Deepfakes: Can You Spot a Phony Video? (by KQED's Above the Noise): A good overview of this shocking new evolution of manipulated media. How Does "Fake" News Become News? (by Teaching Tolerance): This video identifies the way misleading or false info (intentional or not) spreads, and how to recognize it when it's happening. Handouts, infographics, and posters Breaking News Consumer's Handbook (by WNYC's On the Media): This podcast series covers how news consumers can respond critically to breaking (and often tragic) news events. Each podcast comes with a downloadable handout. Explainer: Political Polarization in the United States (by Facing History): A thorough primer on the causes of, and possible solutions to, increasing polarization. Fake News: Historical Timeline (by Common Sense Education): Fake news is nothing new, and this handout offers valuable historical context. Is Seeing Believing? (by Common Sense Education): Get young kids thinking about how and why photos and videos are altered. Topic Backgrounder: Misinformation (by Common Sense Education): This one-pager offers a primer on misinformation and disinformation. Weed Out Propaganda poster (by the Newseum): This poster is a companion to a lesson that teaches students how to use the S.E.E.D. method (simplification, exploitation, exaggeration, and division) for identifying propaganda. Games, apps, and tools

The Republia Times (by Lucas Pope): A simple, clever, and influential art game that digs into news bias and political influence. For more, check out our review.

Finding and using credible, authoritative, and diverse sources

Filter bubbles, echo chambers, and media silos: We all find ourselves in them to some extent. But being news literate means breaking out of these narrow viewpoints and exploring a variety of authoritative and credible sources and perspectives. Use these resources to properly equip your information toolbox, so you can stay up to date, fact-check and verify information, and form informed opinions on the things that matter to you.

Websites, articles, feeds, and newsletters The Cramm: This daily newsletter written by Hannah Seltzer, a teenager from Santa Barbara, California, is targeted at young people who want a "cheatsheet to the world." While the writing is very casual (and sometimes a bit flippant), each highlighted story links out to credible sources. It's a good resource to share with young people who want to stay clued in but find that traditional news sources don't speak in their voices. Most Reliable and Credible Sources for Students (by Common Sense Education): Check out our list of websites and resources students can depend on for well-vetted information. Newsela: A best-in-class source for current news as well as various non-fiction texts. The content is gathered from trustworthy sources and then broken down into five reading levels and translated into Spanish for easy differentiation. For more, check out our review. TIME for Kids: A high-quality, kid-friendly news source with stories both serious and fun. For more, check out our review. Lesson plans and activities Choosing Reliable Sources, Evaluating Reliable Sources, and Evaluating Online Sources (by Teaching Tolerance): These three lessons for grades K-2, 3-5, and 9-12 respectively provide students with age-specific activities and key questions students should ask to discern the trustworthiness and veracity of news and media sources. Filter Bubble Trouble (by Common Sense Education): This lesson gives students strategies for exploring diverse perspectives and challenging their own ideas. Finding Credible News (by Common Sense Education): An all-around lesson for middle school, focusing on the basic skills for separating real from fake when it comes to news stories. Reading News Online (by Common Sense Education): A good starting point for younger kids, since this lesson teaches them about key elements to look for on a news page to verify that it's legit. Videos Google Search Tricks for Research (by Common Sense Education): This hands-on tutorial shows a few key "search operators" you can use to get better, more refined results on Google. How to Pop Our Filter Bubbles (by TED): A collection of TED-produced videos focuses on diversifying sources and stepping outside algorithmically and culturally enforced echo chambers. How to Use Wikipedia Wisely (Stanford History Education Group): Wikipedia can be a useful research tool, if used effectively. Learn how in this video. Navigating Digital Information (by Crash Course): This 11-video playlist -- developed with experts and researchers -- is an awesome primer on how to find and evaluate sources on the web and social media. Reading News Online (by Common Sense Education): A short video aimed at younger kids, letting them know some critical-thinking pointers for consuming news. Handouts, infographics, and posters Fearless Fact-Finding (by Common Sense Education): A student handout listing useful fact-checking resources. Five Steps to a Balanced Media Diet (by Teaching Tolerance): A handout and graphic organizer for tracking media consumption and breaking out of biased bubbles. Games, apps, and tools Hypothes.is (by the Hypothesis Project): This annotation tool makes all websites discussable, adding a layer of thoughtful critique to the web. For more, check out our review. Research and Citation Tools for Students (by Common Sense Education): This is a handy list of tools students can use to find sources -- especially primary sources -- and to cite them effectively. Zotero (by the Corporation for Digital Scholarship): Zotero along with ZoteroBib are excellent tools to gather sources, take notes on them, and cite them. For more, check out our review.

Research on News and the Media

Below you'll find some researchers and research organizations that focus on news literacy. We've also highlighted a few key pieces of their work.

Common Sense: Focuses on news habits of teens and kids. News and America's Kids Teen News Engagement (in partnership with SurveyMonkey) Data & Society: Best source for info on media manipulation and its political implications. Deepfakes and Cheap Fakes Media Manipulation and Disinformation Online Knight Foundation: Tons of reports on all aspects of the news, media, and journalism. Disinformation, "Fake News," and Influence Campaigns on Twitter Young Adults' News Behaviors and Beliefs MediaWell: Regularly updated collection of research on media manipulation. Citation Library (not a report, but a great roundup of research articles and reports) Defining Disinformation Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism: Run by the University of Oxford, they offer some of the most in-depth and insightful reports on news trends and needs. How Young People Consume the News and the Implications for Mainstream Media What Do News Readers Really Want to Read About? Stanford History Education Group: Foundational research on students' ability to separate real information from fake and the pedagogical implications of these literacy deficiencies. Lateral Reading and the Nature of Expertise: Reading Less and Learning More When Evaluating Digital Information Students' Civic Online Reasoning: A National Portrait

News Literacy Organizations to Explore for More Center for News Literacy Knight Foundation MediaWise News Literacy Project Newseum Poynter Institute Project Look Sharp

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Are Schools Sacrificing Students' Privacy in the Name of Safety?

Are Schools Sacrificing Students' Privacy in the Name of Safety? — Thu, 10 Dec 20 16:37:00 -0800

The school surveillance industry is booming. While rare, tragedies like school shootings get lots of media attention, and taken together with more common problems like bullying, self-harm, and suicide, these issues raise important questions about students' safety. Add pandemic-related concerns on top of this, and schools and districts are investing in a wide range of student surveillance measures, both on campus and online. But what are the trade-offs when we prioritize safety over privacy?

Monitoring software can track what students say and do online, sometimes even on students' privately owned devices or social media accounts. In some cases schools might even use tools like location tracking or facial recognition software. Many students might not realize just how invasive some digital safety measures have become.

Student safety may be paramount, but how far should schools and districts go when balancing students' safety with their privacy? Could safety measures have a chilling effect on students' academic freedom or intellectual curiosity? And how does the pandemic complicate things, where distance learning may mean students' classrooms are their own homes, or where in-person learning may require contact tracing?

Use this lesson plan to start a discussion with your students about the delicate balance between privacy and safety in the digital world.

Recommended for:

Grades: 8-12

Subjects: Digital citizenship, journalism, social studies, ELA

Prep for teachers Preview the video "Your School Is Watching You Online ... Should They?" by KQED's Above the Noise, and look over the discussion questions below. Make a copy of the "Thinking Critically About School Surveillance" Google Doc handout. (Tip: Before distributing to your students, customize the handout to your class's needs.) Review the "I used to think ... Now I think ... " thinking routine from Project Zero's Visible Thinking Resources. In the classroom Hook (8-10 minutes):

Before screening the video, give your students an essential question to focus their viewing: "How far should schools go toward protecting students' safety without infringing on students' privacy?"

If you haven't already, distribute the handout and ask students to use it to take notes as they watch. Explain that they can fill in the "At first I thought ... " and "But now I think ... " boxes at any point during or after watching the video.

Show the video "Your School Is Watching You Online ... Should They?" Consider pausing at various points throughout and/or screening the video more than once to aid in students' understanding.

Pressing play on the YouTube video will set third-party cookies controlled by Google if you are logged in to Chrome. See Google's cookie information for details.

Discussion (20 minutes):

Start off by asking students to share what they wrote down on the "Thinking Critically About School Surveillance" handout. Continue the discussion using any or all of the questions and prompts below:

When it comes to students' safety, how far should schools go in surveilling students, both on school grounds and online? School administrators generally have the right (and responsibility) to search students' physical property if there's a reasonable risk to someone's health or safety. Do you think this should extend to students' digital lives? What about during remote learning, when students aren't physically in school? How much should we trust computer algorithms to accurately flag or identify school safety or security risks? Knowing that algorithms can be biased, do you think the potential safety benefits outweigh the harm caused by this bias? Do you think some school surveillance measures could actually make students less safe? If so, how might this happen? Could digital surveillance in schools lead to a chilling effect, where students with opposing or minority viewpoints might self-censor, or be more reluctant to share their ideas or voice their opinions in school? Do you think that school surveillance efforts reinforce or promote the idea that we should expect to lose a certain degree of our privacy in school (and maybe in society at large)? Where do you draw the line between surveillance in the name of safety and people's right to privacy and freedom? Possible follow-ups Teach the lesson "Debating the Privacy Line" from our Digital Citizenship Curriculum. Visit KQED Learn and join an online discussion of the video you just watched. How are students from other schools responding to these issues? Share the article, "As COVID Creeps into Schools, Surveillance Tech Follows" from The 74. Ask students to consider the implications of school safety in the context of the pandemic. For students who are (or may soon return to) learning in person, would they be willing to trade some degree of privacy for the sake of virus contact tracing? Share the article, "Schools Are Spying on Students -- but Students Can Fight Back" from the Electronic Frontier Foundation. Ask students to consider the ways that some students might be more affected than others by school surveillance measures. Then, have students discuss whether they think the EFF's suggested countermeasures would be applicable or appropriate for the situation at their school. Investigation activity: Ask students to research the student safety and surveillance measures -- both physical and digital -- that are actually in place in their school or district. Help students consider how to find this information (how can they find out? Where should they look? Whom should they ask?). Then have students consider: How transparent are the school's policies? Do they think most of their peers are aware of the degree they're being monitored (or not)? Finish by having students assess whether or not their school's safety and surveillance measures are in line with what they're comfortable with in terms of their own safety and/or privacy.

Image courtesy of Allison Shelley/The Verbatim Agency for American Education: Images of Teachers and Students in Action.