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OK2Ask: Engage & Inspire with Google Vids - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12
This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from January 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.
This hands-on workshop...more
This hands-on workshop...more
Here is the direct link to share this resource review. Feel free to copy and paste this URL into an email or place it on your web page or blog so others can read this TeachersFirst review:
This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from January 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.
This hands-on workshop will introduce you to Google Vids, a powerful new tool for creating short, engaging videos that will transform your teaching--no video editing experience required. From basic editing techniques to creative storytelling strategies, you'll discover how to produce professional-quality content that captures student's attention and enhances learning. Walk away with the skills you need to create dynamic video resources that bring your lessons to life. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Master Google Vids's essential features to create professional instructional videos. 2. Design engaging video content that effectively introduces concepts, reinforces learning, and provides clear visual explanations. 3. Develop strategies that transform passive video viewing into active learning experiences that boost student engagement. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.
This hands-on workshop will introduce you to Google Vids, a powerful new tool for creating short, engaging videos that will transform your teaching--no video editing experience required. From basic editing techniques to creative storytelling strategies, you'll discover how to produce professional-quality content that captures student's attention and enhances learning. Walk away with the skills you need to create dynamic video resources that bring your lessons to life. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Master Google Vids's essential features to create professional instructional videos. 2. Design engaging video content that effectively introduces concepts, reinforces learning, and provides clear visual explanations. 3. Develop strategies that transform passive video viewing into active learning experiences that boost student engagement. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (177), creating media (14), professional development (385), video (266)
In the Classroom
The archive of this teacher-friendly, hands-on webinar will empower and inspire you to use learning technology in the classroom and for professional productivity. As appropriate, specific classroom examples and ideas have been shared. View the session with a few of your teaching colleagues to find and share new ideas. Once registered, find additional reference materials, tutorials, and how-to information to help you review or extend your knowledge from the session in the handout posted on the session landing page. Resources may include additional ideas and examples on integrating the tools and strategies shared in classroom instruction. Learn more about OK2Ask and upcoming sessions here.Britannica Kids Silk Road - Britannica Kids Silk Road
Grades
3 to 10Britannica Kids Silk Road shares information on the route, trade along the road, the Silk Road's decline, a lasting legacy, and more. Under the "Images and Videos" tab is a ...more
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Britannica Kids Silk Road shares information on the route, trade along the road, the Silk Road's decline, a lasting legacy, and more. Under the "Images and Videos" tab is a short (two-minute) video, interactive map, paintings, and artifacts.
tag(s): china (81)
In the Classroom
Students can read the information to learn about the Silk Road. Students can research the cities along the Silk Road and how the Silk Road created their existence. Students can investigate more about the UNESCO World Heritage sites or Silk Road created by Yo-Yo Ma. Finally, students can debate the impact of the Silk Road then and now.EdYouToo's Ancient China - EdYouToo's Ancient China
Grades
3 to 10EdYouToo's Ancient China Part One video on Ancient China highlights the Bronze Age until the Han Dynasty in a twenty minute video. The Dynasties highlighted in the video include Xia,...more
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EdYouToo's Ancient China Part One video on Ancient China highlights the Bronze Age until the Han Dynasty in a twenty minute video. The Dynasties highlighted in the video include Xia, Shang, Zhou, Qin, and Han. Each video section on a dynasty shares accomplishments or important facts.
In the Classroom
Students could pick one of the dynasties to research more about and create a Google Slide presentation or a podcast using RedCircle reviewed here. Students can compare and contrast each of the dynasties. Finally, students can debate which dynasty was the most influential. Students can use an online debate tool like Kialo Edu reviewed here.What is Retrieval Practice? - Unleash Learning, LLC
Grades
K to 12The Retrieval Practice website explains why actively recalling information enhances student learning and retention. It delves into the cognitive science behind retrieval practice, demonstrating...more
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The Retrieval Practice website explains why actively recalling information enhances student learning and retention. It delves into the cognitive science behind retrieval practice, demonstrating how this method strengthens memory and improves long-term understanding. The site provides research-based insights, practical examples, and classroom strategies for implementing retrieval activities, such as low-stakes quizzes or reflective questions.
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This site includes advertising.
tag(s): teaching strategies (50)
In the Classroom
Start class with a quick retrieval activity, such as a "Brain Dump," where students write down everything they remember about a previously learned topic. Use low-stakes quizzes or exit tickets to reinforce key concepts. Incorporate "Successive Relearning," where students revisit and recall material repeatedly over weeks.How to Use Chatbot to Create Engaging Do Now Activities - Edutopia
Grades
K to 12"How to Use AI to Create Engaging Do Now Activities" provides educators with practical strategies for leveraging AI tools to design engaging and effective warm-up activities. The resource...more
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"How to Use AI to Create Engaging Do Now Activities" provides educators with practical strategies for leveraging AI tools to design engaging and effective warm-up activities. The resource emphasizes how AI can save time by generating customized prompts, questions, or scenarios tailored to various subjects and grade levels. It also highlights the importance of aligning these activities with learning objectives and using them to activate prior knowledge, spark curiosity, and prepare students for the lesson ahead. The article encourages teachers to experiment with AI responsibly, ensuring its outputs are age-appropriate and meaningful for their specific classroom context.
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This site includes advertising.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (177), Teacher Utilities (198)
In the Classroom
Use AI to create quick, challenging warm-up questions related to the day's lesson. Develop differentiated "Do Now" tasks using AI to cater to diverse student needs. For example, an AI tool can create varying levels of comprehension questions for a short text, ensuring all students are appropriately challenged. Encourage students to analyze or critique AI-generated prompts. For instance, ask them to refine or improve an AI-created question, linking it more directly to the lesson.Ancient China - Kids Discover
Grades
3 to 8The Kids Discover Online unit on Ancient China provides a comprehensive exploration of Chinese dynasties, focusing on their history, achievements, and cultural impact. There are seven...more
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The Kids Discover Online unit on Ancient China provides a comprehensive exploration of Chinese dynasties, focusing on their history, achievements, and cultural impact. There are seven topics to explore. The resource is designed for engaging classroom use, featuring vibrant visuals, accessible text, and interactive elements that bring ancient Chinese history to life. The "Chinese Dynasties" topic covers significant eras, such as the Shang, Zhou, Qin, and Han Dynasties, highlighting their contributions to governance, technology, and art. You must register for a free account to access this unit.
In the Classroom
Have students create a detailed timeline of the major Chinese dynasties using information from the platform. They can include significant events, technological advances, and key leaders. Use a timeline tool such as Time Graphics Timeline Maker reviewed here or Timelinely reviewed here. Using the platform's maps, students trace the territorial expansions and trade routes of a chosen dynasty, discussing the geographic challenges and advantages they faced. Pair the platform's visuals with a project where students design an artifact (ex.: bronze vessel, Great Wall section, or Terracotta Warrior). They can explain how their artifact reflects the values and innovations of the dynastyAsia for Educators - Columbia University
Grades
K to 12Explore these extensive resources to help teach about Asia's history, culture, and contemporary issues. The site features lesson plans, primary source documents, videos, and timelines...more
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Explore these extensive resources to help teach about Asia's history, culture, and contemporary issues. The site features lesson plans, primary source documents, videos, and timelines of ancient China, Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia. It is aligned with K-12 coursework, making it adaptable for various classrooms. It also includes professional development opportunities and strategies for integrating Asian studies into broader curriculums.
In the Classroom
Introduce the Chinese Zodiac. Students learn about the animals and the characteristics of each sign. Have students create masks or drawings of their zodiac animals and share how their traits might influence their personalities. Teach students the history of the Great Wall of China using the website's lesson plans. Have them construct a model of the Wall using craft supplies. Simulate the Silk Road by assigning students roles as traders, buyers, and travelers. Use replica trade goods like silk, spices, or ceramics (real or paper props).List of Rulers of China - The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Grades
4 to 12"List of Rulers of China" by The Metropolitan Museum of Art outlines the major dynasties of Chinese history, spanning from the unconfirmed Xia Dynasty (ca. 2100-1600 B.C.) to the fall...more
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"List of Rulers of China" by The Metropolitan Museum of Art outlines the major dynasties of Chinese history, spanning from the unconfirmed Xia Dynasty (ca. 2100-1600 B.C.) to the fall of the Qing Dynasty in 1911. Each dynasty is presented with its subperiods, significant rulers, and their reign dates.
In the Classroom
Have students research the historical context of one artifact and present how it reflects the dynasty's culture or achievements. Create mystery "case files" for each dynasty with clues like significant rulers, inventions, cultural contributions, or conflicts, then divide the students into teams and have them identify the dynasty based on the clues. Students can create chronological timelines to visualize the sequence of dynasties and key events. They can use an online tool such as Timeline Infographic Templates, reviewed here or Time Graphics Timeline Maker, reviewed here.Ancient Map of Mesopotamia - Brookings School District
Grades
4 to 6This map of Mesopotamia can be used to help students visualize the geography of one of the world's earliest civilizations. By examining the map, students can identify key features such...more
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This map of Mesopotamia can be used to help students visualize the geography of one of the world's earliest civilizations. By examining the map, students can identify key features such as the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, the Fertile Crescent, and important city-states like Babylon and Ur. Use it to guide discussions on how geography influenced agriculture, trade, and settlement patterns in Mesopotamia. Additionally, the map could support activities such as labeling exercises, tracing the routes of ancient trade networks, or comparing Mesopotamian geography to modern maps of the Middle East.
tag(s): asia (116), maps (220), mesopotamia (32)
In the Classroom
Have students label key features such as the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, the Fertile Crescent, and major cities like Babylon and Ur. Use the map to discuss why civilizations settled near rivers and how the geography of Mesopotamia supported farming, trade, and city growth. Have students trace potential trade routes and discuss how Mesopotamians might have traded goods with neighboring regions. Show students a modern map of the Middle East and compare it to the ancient map. Discuss which modern countries are in the area of ancient Mesopotamia.Mesopotamia Outline Map - Don Dellinger
Grades
3 to 12This Mesopotamian outline map provides a clear visual representation of the region known as the Fertile Crescent, including the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. Use this resource to help...more
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This Mesopotamian outline map provides a clear visual representation of the region known as the Fertile Crescent, including the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers. Use this resource to help students understand the geographic features that influenced the rise of ancient Mesopotamian civilizations. Students can label key locations such as Sumer, Akkad, and Babylon, trace trade routes, or identify agricultural regions. The map is ideal for lessons on geography, early human settlements, and the development of early societies.
tag(s): asia (116), map skills (63), maps (220), mesopotamia (32)
In the Classroom
Draw and analyze ancient trade routes and discuss what goods were traded and how geography influenced commerce. Have students label key rivers, cities, and regions. Assign groups to research cities or regions on the map and present their findings. Discuss how the rivers influenced agriculture, led to the invention of irrigation, or caused environmental challenges.OK2Ask: AI for Creating Learning Objects - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from January 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.
Join us for an...more
Join us for an...more
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This recording of an OK2Ask online professional learning session is from January 2025. You can register and immediately view the archive of the session.
Join us for an engaging workshop workshop for educators who are excited to harness the power of AI in their teaching practices. This session will introduce you to various generative AI tools that can create dynamic interactive learning objects--small pieces of content that you can seamlessly integrate into your lessons to enhance student engagement and understanding. Whether you're a tech novice or a seasoned pro, this workshop will provide the practical insights and hands-on experience you need to elevate your teaching strategies. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Define learning objects and their strategic role in instruction. 2. Explore cutting-edge AI tools for generating interactive learning resources. 3. Design practical strategies for integrating AI-created learning objects to optimize student learning experiences. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.
Join us for an engaging workshop workshop for educators who are excited to harness the power of AI in their teaching practices. This session will introduce you to various generative AI tools that can create dynamic interactive learning objects--small pieces of content that you can seamlessly integrate into your lessons to enhance student engagement and understanding. Whether you're a tech novice or a seasoned pro, this workshop will provide the practical insights and hands-on experience you need to elevate your teaching strategies. As a result of this session, teachers will: 1. Define learning objects and their strategic role in instruction. 2. Explore cutting-edge AI tools for generating interactive learning resources. 3. Design practical strategies for integrating AI-created learning objects to optimize student learning experiences. This session is appropriate for teachers at all technology levels.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (177), creating media (14), Teacher Utilities (198)
In the Classroom
The archive of this teacher-friendly, hands-on webinar will empower and inspire you to use learning technology in the classroom and for professional productivity. As appropriate, specific classroom examples and ideas have been shared. View the session with a few of your teaching colleagues to find and share new ideas. Once registered, find additional reference materials, tutorials, and how-to information to help you review or extend your knowledge from the session in the handout posted on the session landing page. Resources may include additional ideas and examples on integrating the tools and strategies shared in classroom instruction. Learn more about OK2Ask and upcoming sessions here.PBS Learning: Know Your Dynasties | The Story of China - PBS Learning: Know Your Dynasties | The Story of China
Grades
3 to 12PBS Learning Media's The Story of China is an interactive quiz featuring questions related to the Shang, Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing Dynasties. There are twenty-four questions in the...more
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PBS Learning Media's The Story of China is an interactive quiz featuring questions related to the Shang, Tang, Song, Ming, and Qing Dynasties. There are twenty-four questions in the quiz. Share the quiz via Google Classroom or a link. An account is required to build lessons.
tag(s): china (81)
In the Classroom
Students can take the quiz that is provided. Next, have students research the questions they missed. Students can write facts that were shared via the quiz from each of the dynasties. Finally, students can share the new information they learned from the quiz.Do Now Checklist - Teach Like a Champion
Grades
K to 12The Teach Like a Champion March Grab-and-Go Guide Do Now Checklist is a PDF with free, easy-to-use resource for teachers. It provides simple strategies to solve classroom challenges,...more
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The Teach Like a Champion March Grab-and-Go Guide Do Now Checklist is a PDF with free, easy-to-use resource for teachers. It provides simple strategies to solve classroom challenges, build a positive environment, and keep students engaged. The guide includes clear instructions, examples, and tips to help teachers set expectations, lead discussions, and motivate students. It's a quick and helpful tool for improving teaching and learning.
tag(s): classroom management (120), Teacher Utilities (198), teaching strategies (50)
In the Classroom
Use the "Set High Expectations" strategy by having students role-play scenarios demonstrating desired classroom behaviors. Implement the "Choral Responses" strategy, where the whole class answers a question aloud. "Choral Responses" promotes student participation and ensures that everyone is on the same page. Use the "Stretch It" technique, where students are encouraged to elaborate on their answers by asking follow-up questions like "Can you explain that further?" or "What makes you think that?"Virtual Field Trip - I Do Solemnly Swear: The U.S. Presidential Inauguration - Share My Lesson
Grades
3 to 12The Virtual Field Trip- I Do Solemnly Swear: The U.S. Presidential Inauguration is a free website highlighting President Joseph Biden's inauguration process and Vice President Kamala...more
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The Virtual Field Trip- I Do Solemnly Swear: The U.S. Presidential Inauguration is a free website highlighting President Joseph Biden's inauguration process and Vice President Kamala Harris (from January 2021). The site highlights what it is like at the Presidential Inauguration, why we had an inauguration, why it happened on January 20th, why is the inauguration held at the Capital, and what it is like to move into the White House. Each lesson contains a PDF file you can download, but you must create an account to access the lesson plans. A 22-minute video from Discovery Streaming is posted on the website. Although this inauguration is not the most recent, students can still view the activities to learn more about the inauguration process.
tag(s): inauguration (10), presidents (135)
In the Classroom
Teachers can follow the step-by-step lessons that are on the site. Students can research other presidential inaugurations so that they can compare and contrast. Finally, students can debate the importance/significance of a presidential inauguration.Ancient Mesopotamia - Code of Hammurabi - Test Quiz - Ducksters
Grades
4 to 8Ducksters' page on the Code of Hammurabi provides an engaging resource for introducing students to one of history's oldest legal codes. The page includes an overview of the Code's significance...more
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Ducksters' page on the Code of Hammurabi provides an engaging resource for introducing students to one of history's oldest legal codes. The page includes an overview of the Code's significance in Mesopotamian society and a series of questions designed to test comprehension and encourage critical thinking. Teachers can use this resource to complement lessons on ancient civilizations, justice systems, or ethics. The quiz, which is printable and accompanied by a resource page, is ideal for classroom discussions, homework assignments, or formative assessments.
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This site includes advertising.
tag(s): asia (116), mesopotamia (32)
In the Classroom
Have students read the page as a class or independently in a guided reading activity using eMargin, reviewed here, and discuss the key points, such as the significance of the Code and how it influenced justice systems. Use the quiz questions to guide comprehension. Ask students to write a diary entry or short story from the perspective of a Mesopotamian citizen living under Hammurabi's Code. The students can complete the entries on paper or using a tool like Blogger, reviewed here or ePubEditor, reviewed here.The Mini-Economy Business Portfolio - The Mini-Economy Business Portfolio
Grades
K to 12The Mini Economic Business Portfolio is a project-based learning, free website that teaches what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur by engaging students in discussions and creating...more
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The Mini Economic Business Portfolio is a project-based learning, free website that teaches what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur by engaging students in discussions and creating a classroom business. The website allows students of all grade levels (kindergarten through twelve) to share a scope and sequence, lesson ideas, summative assessments, and rubrics. Remote Learning Lessons (ideal for flipped and blended learning) are located under each of the following subtopics: grades K-5, grades 6-8, and grades 9-12. Remote Learning Lessons include saving or spending, what our business should produce, what price we should charge, why different countries produce different things, and more. Lessons come with videos, additional resources, and alignment with the National Financial Literacy and Common Core Standards. They can be uploaded to SmartBoard Notebook and Google Classroom.
tag(s): business (52), financial literacy (93), money (113), stock market (11)
In the Classroom
Students can participate in each of the lessons listed on the website and participate in the contests provided on the website. Students can use various digital platforms to advertise their product, such as Podcast Generator, reviewed here. Finally, students can compare and contrast their "product" and the process after they have sold them to other students or create a step-by-step guide on how they created their product from start to finish.Do Now Resources - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12View this collection of tools to use for Do Now activities as students enter your classroom. Do Now activities (also called entrance tickets) are essential instructional strategies...more
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View this collection of tools to use for Do Now activities as students enter your classroom. Do Now activities (also called entrance tickets) are essential instructional strategies that help educators kickstart lessons, assess prior knowledge, and engage students from the moment they enter the classroom. These brief, focused tasks set the tone for learning and provide valuable formative assessment data. Resources for Do Now and entrance tickets span a wide range of formats, from simple question prompts to games to interactive digital tools. Many of these resources offer features like randomized question generation, multimedia integration, and real-time data visualization, enabling teachers to gauge class understanding and adjust instruction accordingly quickly. By leveraging these diverse resources, educators can create consistent routines that maximize instructional time, promote student accountability, and provide a smooth transition into the day's main learning objectives.
tag(s): assessment (147), Formative Assessment (74)
In the Classroom
Help your students to show what they know using these engaging resources for quick formative assessment. Share these resources with your colleagues and school parents by emailing the page or sharing the link from your school web page and in your school newsletter.Media Clips for Student Projects - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 12This curation offers a variety of resources, such as videos, audio clips, stock images, and project templates across various subjects and disciplines. Whether students are working on...more
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This curation offers a variety of resources, such as videos, audio clips, stock images, and project templates across various subjects and disciplines. Whether students are working on a presentation, multimedia project, or research paper, this extensive collection provides the building blocks you need to bring the ideas to life. From historical footage to scientific visualizations, these resources are intended to inspire creativity, deepen understanding, and elevate the quality of your students' academic work.
tag(s): creating media (14), Research (87)
In the Classroom
Find new tools to try in your classroom to use when creating projects. Each review includes classroom use ideas. Read the details of each tool and find the ones that will make your tasks easier to manage and engage your students.Game-Based Learning for Littles - TeachersFirst
Grades
K to 4This collection combines various educational games, playful simulations, and engaging digital experiences tailored specifically for kindergarten through second-grade students. By harnessing...more
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This collection combines various educational games, playful simulations, and engaging digital experiences tailored specifically for kindergarten through second-grade students. By harnessing children's natural enthusiasm for play, these resources transform early learning into an adventure, making foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking feel like exciting discoveries rather than academic tasks. Games are a great way to level the playing field for students needing extra help. Our collection of game-based resources provides an innovative approach to laying a strong educational foundation to inspire a lifelong love of learning.
tag(s): critical thinking (127), game based learning (205), gamification (83), preK (270)
In the Classroom
Share these tools on your class website or blog for students to use both in and out of the classroom. Use these tools to differentiate and reach all students at the various levels. Challenge your students to create their own games to review content or acceleration options.The Purring Test - TED
Grades
3 to 12Looking for a quick, engaging brain break? TED's "The Purring Test" offers just that and more. Perfect for adding a playful twist to your classroom, TED's first game, The Purring ...more
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Looking for a quick, engaging brain break? TED's "The Purring Test" offers just that and more. Perfect for adding a playful twist to your classroom, TED's first game, The Purring Test, began with a curious question: "What would it be like to play Pictionary with an AI?" Intended to help understand different types of minds when challenged with quirky associations and unexpected twists, the outcome is usually hilarious and fun. This interactive game invites players to compete against friends and family with new puzzles daily, making it a playful addition to your classroom or a fun way to spark curiosity about AI and communication.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (177), gifted (66), puzzles (149)