TeachersFirst Edge
New web 2.0 tools appear each day. Many of these tools were not originally intended for classroom use, but they can be powerful learning tools for today's techno-savvy students and their more adventurous teachers. These sites appear (and frequently disappear) very quickly, launched by creative techno-geeks out there in the world.
Many of these tools require a higher-than-average set of teacher tech skills or some extra monitoring to assure student "safety." TeachersFirst Edge reviews these "tools on the Edge" carefully, and with specific ideas for using them safely and effectively in teaching and learning. Reviews point out any safety or policy concerns for the tool and offer links to management tips for each concern.
This is the world your students already know. Try teaching in their vernacular. A little adventurousness makes for powerful learning.
See General Tips for using Edge Tools - a must for first-time users
Browse the full listing of detailed safety/school policy tips or save time by reading them as needed from each tool review.
Learn about school web filtering, a critical issue with many "Edge" tools
If you try one of these tools and find it especially useful, be sure to leave a comment on it to share your students' successes with other teachers. If you know of another tool that teachers would find beneficial, please suggest it via our webmaster account, as a “suggested resource.”
Here's the Edge:
594 Results | sort by:
HackPad - Hackpad.com
Grades
6 to 12
tag(s): wikis (15)
In the Classroom
Use for collaborative note-taking in class with groups or students on multiple computers. Create pages for team and lab work or when students are working on a project. This tool is great for groups of students to collaborate and share. Use this as your classroom wiki: easy to use, edit, and follow.You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
AnswerBag - Joel Downs
Grades
8 to 12tag(s): polls and surveys (12), questioning (16)
In the Classroom
Post a question as a homework assignment for student response using a specific url directly to that question. Challenge cooperative learning groups to create their own questions. Search for interesting questions already posted to use as a discussion/debate starter. You may want to preview the questions before using in the classroom as posts can sometimes contain language or content not appropriate for the classroom. Monitor use by using a whole class account to submit questions.Edge Features:
Parent permission advised before posting student work created using this tool
Includes Interaction w general public/ public galleries with unmoderated content
Includes social features, such as "friends," comments, ratings by others
Requires registration/log-in (WITH email)
Products can be embedded
Products can be shared by URL
Multiple users can collaborate on the same project
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
ShowMe - The Online Learning Community - San Kim and Karen Bdoyan
Grades
K to 12In the Classroom
Share the site (or individual videos) with your students to access at home for homework help using the Facebook, Twitter, email, or embed link on each video. List the ShowMe link on your class website. View tutorials on your interactive whiteboard (or projector) as a whole class. Encourage students to share links to specific videos they find helpful on a "Video Reviews" page of your class wiki. For a very real challenge, have students create their own simple review videos using the ShowMe app on iPads (if available) then embed them on your class wiki for a year-to-year student-made study guide! For examples of sophisticated topics simplified in whiteboard stick figure videos, see Common Craft, reviewed here.Edge Features:
Products can be embedded
Products can be shared by URL
Multiple users can collaborate on the same project
Requires download/installation of software
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Vokle - Robert Kiraz
Grades
6 to 12In the Classroom
This site would be perfect to use when collaborating with other classrooms, for holding an author visit, or for professional collaboration. After hosting an event, share the link with students (or parents) who could not attend or who want to watch it over again. Encourage students to host their own event with topics such as book talks, interactive discussions on solving difficult math problems, or discussions of current events. Create a Vokle for parents to view, sharing your educational philosophy, classroom procedures and expectations, and other school-related information. Create a Vokle for students who were absent from class or who may want to watch the lesson again. Even elementary classes can make a vokle under teacher supervision for special events such as Earth Day or the 100th day of school.Edge Features:
Parent permission advised before posting student work created using this tool
Includes Interaction w general public/ public galleries with unmoderated content
Includes social features, such as "friends," comments, ratings by others
Requires registration/log-in (WITH email)
Products can be embedded
Products can be shared by URL
Multiple users can collaborate on the same project
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Skratch Track - Skratch Publishing
Grades
K to 5tag(s): authors (73), book lists (56), book reports (15), independent reading (45)
In the Classroom
Skratch Track is a great alternative to the paper reading log. Students will be proud to show off their virtual bookshelves and awards on their Skratch Track account. Email information to friends and family. If each student has an account, allow students to share their bookshelf and favorite books with the class.Edge Features:
Parent permission advised before posting student work created using this tool
Includes social features, such as "friends," comments, ratings by others
Requires registration/log-in (WITH email)
Includes teacher tools for registering and/or monitoring students
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
VocabAhead Vocabulary Videos - VocabAhead Team
Grades
9 to 12This site includes advertising.
tag(s): vocabulary (251), vocabulary development (41)
In the Classroom
Project this vocabulary website on your classroom whiteboard or projector and share a few quick ready-made vocabulary videos. They are quick, fun, and memorable. They also provide a way to associate words and make the definitions stick. This will especially have value for visual learners and ESL/ELL students. Use the easy to navigate, alphabetized word lists as they appear on the website, or create your own sets from the lists for assignments. Sign up to receive the Word of the Day. Share the link to this site on your web page for students to access at home. Let your students create their own vocabulary videos to share with your class. Share the videos using a site such as TeacherTube reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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101 Questions - Dan Myer
Grades
2 to 12tag(s): creative writing (67), creativity (66), images (115)
In the Classroom
Creative fluency begins here! Set up a whole class account. Use this site in language arts: discover main idea, details, cause and effect, or even an inspirational writing prompt. Find ways to group images together based on characteristics or attributes. Use in gifted or enrichment situations, for inspiration for problem-based learning. Sequence the images to find ways to form a logical plot. Find ways to make Perplexors out of the given image. In math, write short word problems to accompany images or videos. Find ways to illustrate vocabulary definitions with examples and non-examples. As a morning work challenge, find questions, details, or even other questions. As a writing challenge, look for the image that conveys the mood or feeling you are trying to convey. In science, submit examples to illustrate scientific concepts. Use to generate scientific method style questions based on the given image. In social studies, find images to convey feelings represented by the time being studied. Challenge students to make a historical statement or political statement by finding and adding to an appropriate image. ESL/ELL students can use this site to help acquire conversation/questioning skills. In world language class, have students generate questions in their new language, even if they do not post them. In art, find mood, theme, style, or self expression images. Be sure to monitor the blog content. Put similar content on your own classroom blog. Challenge students to create their own 101 question images or videos to share on your class blog, inviting viewers to respond with questions in the comments.Edge Features:
Parent permission advised before posting student work created using this tool
Includes Interaction w general public/ public galleries with unmoderated content
Includes social features, such as "friends," comments, ratings by others
Requires registration/log-in (WITH email)
Products can be embedded
Products can be shared by URL
Multiple users can collaborate on the same project
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Rich Chart Live - Blue Pacific Software
Grades
8 to 12This site includes advertising.
tag(s): charts and graphs (129), data (92)
In the Classroom
Create colorful and interactive charts on the fly at anytime by using this website. Display the website on your interactive whiteboard (or projector). Watch charts change by using different inputs and customization options. Challenge students to predict and draw what charts will look like before changes are applied. Use the site to compare and contrast different ways to present information and discuss styles that work best in different situations. Create a class wiki and embed different examples of charts with explanations of how the chart was created. Have student use the discussion on the wiki to explain what the chart tells them. Not comfortable with wikis? Have no wiki worries - check out the TeachersFirst Wiki Walk-Through.Edge Features:
Premium version (not free) includes additional features or storage
Products can be embedded
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Photoshop Express Online - 2012 Adobe Systems
Grades
6 to 12This site includes advertising.
tag(s): images (115), photography (96)
In the Classroom
Find plenty of room for all of your classes photos! Edit the photos to create quality prints. Organize into libraries to share with students and parents. Have a library for every class, assignment, every year, or yearbooks. In lower grades, set up a teacher account for the whole class. Communicate with parents, pen pals, or with collaborations between schools. In art classes, look at the possibilities of quality photography. In upper grade technology classes, create free galleries for each student (over 13), and highlight some of the latest photo editing software and apps. Use in science classes as a way to store data in digital images. In language arts, create stories through photos or make wordless picture books. Store student portfolios in digital format in your gallery. Journal throughout your school year in pictures.Edge Features:
Parent permission advised before posting student work created using this tool
Includes Interaction w general public/ public galleries with unmoderated content
Includes social features, such as "friends," comments, ratings by others
Requires registration/log-in (WITH email)
Products can be embedded
Products can be shared by URL
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Hello Slide - 2012 HelloSlide
Grades
K to 12This site includes advertising.
tag(s): digital storytelling (40), slides (24)
In the Classroom
Add extra spice to your own presentations or your students' presentations with audio! Reach auditory as well as visual learners with all your presentations. Use in world language classes or for ELL/ESL or non-reader students. Incorporate into presentations in all subject areas. Challenge students to use this tool to create their own audio presentations. Use as a morning message or incorporate in your blog.Edge Features:
Parent permission advised before posting student work created using this tool
Includes Interaction w general public/ public galleries with unmoderated content
Includes social features, such as "friends," comments, ratings by others
Requires registration/log-in (WITH email)
Premium version (not free) includes additional features or storage
Products can be shared by URL
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Edublog - Edulogs.org
Grades
K to 12This site includes advertising.
tag(s): blogs (51)
In the Classroom
Save this site as a favorite for all of your blogging needs. Find very informative instructions on blogging, and follow the student blogging challenge lesson plans. Peruse through the various subjects and discover how other teachers use blogging in their classrooms. Using the given PDFs on blogging start up, parent guidelines, incorporating into subject areas, and adapt to make them suitable for you. Look at a variety of examples to help devise your own unique style to meet your students' needs.Edge Features:
Includes an education-only area for teachers and students
Parent permission advised before posting student work created using this tool
Includes social features, such as "friends," comments, ratings by others
Requires registration/log-in (WITH email)
Premium version (not free) includes additional features or storage
Products can be shared by URL
Multiple users can collaborate on the same project
Includes teacher tools for registering and/or monitoring students
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
KikuText - kikutext.com
Grades
K to 12tag(s): classroom management (15), parents (18)
In the Classroom
Send out whole-class reminders to parents of upcoming tests, project due dates, school events, and more. Use this site as an alternative to conference reminder slips (and save paper). Keep parents "in the loop" about students' behavior, achievement, and more with this tool. Imagine sending a text as you discover missing homework. Suddenly, accountability steps up a notch!Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Word Play- Spanish Vocabulary Game - 2009-2011, Wordplay Learning LLC
Grades
2 to 12tag(s): spanish (81)
In the Classroom
Introduce on your projector or interactive whiteboard, and explain as a class. Use the ready-to-go content lessons or create your own customized lessons. The complete teacher's manual offers detailed information on student progress, lesson content, and motivation. Challenge every student at his/her level. Use as an easy customized homework assignment for what each student needs the most. Use points earned as a personal learning goal, required points for assignment grade, team, class, or even grade level challenges. Say good bye to hated paper flash cards! Join the 21 century in learning.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Zotero - Center for History and New Media at George Mason University
Grades
8 to 12tag(s): citations (11), evaluating sources (2), primary sources (48)
In the Classroom
Depending on school computer settings, you may need to have tech support install the program for you. Use Zotero to collect and organize classroom resources. Share with older students as a resource for gathering and citing information. Demonstrate how to use the site on your interactive whiteboard including showing the quick-start video. One of the advanced features of the site is the creation of groups. Share this with students who may be capable of using the feature to collaborate with others.Edge Features:
Products can be embedded
Multiple users can collaborate on the same project
Requires download/installation of software
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Skloog - Skloog, LLC
Grades
K to 12In the Classroom
This resource is best used as a teacher sharing tool for sharing links, RSS feeds, and other resources for students to use on specific projects or as general course links. Use this site to share with other professionals, team members, or parents. Use the categories to save bookmarks for different units you have in your classroom. Make your Skloog page the homepage for your computer, too.Consider having a category for student use for webquests, tools you want them to use, and creative commons images, music, etc. Also, create a category where students update with suggestions from class members. Use different colored alphabet tiles on a Skloog for younger, non-reader students. For example, give each subject its own distinctive color. They will also recognize logos well before they read!
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Zondle - Ben Barton
Grades
K to 5tag(s): addition (147), division (87), multiplication (122), phonics (43), quizzes (49), subtraction (114), vocabulary development (41), volcanoes (45)
In the Classroom
Demonstrate how to use the site on your interactive whiteboard or projector. Allow students to explore on classroom computers. Create your own quizzes for students to complete during computer center time. Share the site with parents through your classroom website or newsletter. Create a classroom account and choose activities for students to complete. Challenge students to create quiz questions to be used on your Zondle account.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Night Zookeeper - Joshua Davidson
Grades
K to 5tag(s): creative writing (67), creativity (66), digital storytelling (40)
In the Classroom
Share this site on classroom computers for students to read and listen to the Night Zookeeper story then encourage students to create their own animal to be added to the zoo. Use the included graphic organizer to help students design their animal. Create a link to the site on classroom computers and allow students to explore and discover site activities. Use an online tool such as Interactive Two Circle Venn Diagram (reviewed here) to create a visual comparison of animals included in the zoo or imaginary animals vs. real animals.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Moglue - Tae Woo Kim, Ryan Kim, and Chris Riley
Grades
K to 12This site includes advertising.
tag(s): digital storytelling (40)
In the Classroom
Bring students' creations to life through use of this application. Create a classroom book using individual student's pictures and a collaborative story. Allow students to read self-created books during center time. Elementary teachers can ask middle or high school students to create books to use in your classroom using student images and stories. Share Moglue with students to use as a tool for media presentations on any subject.Edge Features:
Parent permission advised before posting student work created using this tool
Requires registration/log-in (WITH email)
Premium version (not free) includes additional features or storage
Products can be shared by URL
Multiple users can collaborate on the same project
Requires download/installation of software
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
You must be registered and logged in to add items to your favorites.
Use the form at the top of the page to log in, or click here to join TeachersFirst (it's free!).
Flash Classroom - Kristine Kopelke
Grades
K to 12In the Classroom
Use the demos included on the site when teaching students how to create Flash items or as inspiration for what other students have created. Create a link on classroom computers to flash interactives on the site for practice with math and reading skills. Create your own Flash activities to correspond with current topics in your classroom.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Pegby - Stephen Starkey
Grades
4 to 12tag(s): organizational skills (32)
In the Classroom
Add ideas for the school year, tasks, lesson plans, to-do items, etc. to your board as cards. Share your board with team members (or even parents, if applicable) so that you are all on the same page and can share lessons/resources/task responsibilities. Create columns of Standards headings, and associate each standard with a note card containing resources for teaching.Older students can keep their school year organized by adding assignments and tasks, uploading work, taking/keeping notes, and sharing their board. As students work on and complete tasks, they can move items from one column to the next. Pegby would also be a great tool for organizing research projects (even collaborative research projects). Students can decide how they want to organize their research and notes, tag information, and attach documents. Create a collaboration board if working on projects with other classes. Teach time management and project planning by requiring students to show you their Pegby plans.
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