In my opinion, the first five minutes of class is one of the most crucial moments of your entire class. Have you established a routine? Are the students engaged? When does the learning begin? Here are a few suggestions on how to best utilize your first five, using technology.
#1: Establishing a Routine - Introduction Slideshows
This year, I started implementing introduction slideshows into my classroom. It has made a significant impact on establishing a routine. I simply state the learning goal, what materials they need and exactly what they should be doing. Student come in, get out the necessary materials and get ready to go.
Looking for a sample introduction slideshow? I provide a free version on my shared google drive folder. You can access it here!
#2: Engaging the Students - Websites for a Variety of Ages + Subjects
As much as I like a routine, I don't necessarily like for my students to do the exact same thing every day. Here are a few of my favorite websites I use at the beginning of class to help increase student engagement. Click on the title of each suggestion to try them out for yourself!
This game-based learning platform is a quick and easy way to increase engagement. Students will be shown a question on the screen, then they will use their device to select a correct response.
Another game-based learning platform, Quizizz uses memes to help engage your students. One advantage to Quizizz, the students can work through the questions at their own pace.
Like Kahoot + Quizizz, Gimkit is a fast-paced way to assess + engage your students. With Gimkit, students are able to earn money for each correct response. Eventually, they are able to use their money to buy upgrades, new themes or even "freeze" their opponents.
Quizlet Live is a collaborative learning game that all students seem to enjoy. Students are placed in teams and must work together to correctly answer 12 questions in a row. If they get a question incorrect, they must go back to 0.
Desmos provides teachers with a variety of math-related, digital activities. One of my personal favorites would be their polygraph activities. It's like 'Guess Who?' - but with math! :)
If I am looking for a quick way to assess my students on a particular math concept, Khan Academy is my go-to. It is easy to find a lesson, video + questions for almost any math concept.
Quia has some amazing teacher-created games that my students really enjoy. From battleship to rags to riches to challenge board, I can always find a game or two on any math or science concept I am currently studying.
Now, want to know the BEST part about all of the websites I listed above? They are all FREE! Some of the websites do offer a paid version with more tools - but you can still implement them within your classroom using the free versions.
Wheww... thanks for sticking it out to the end. Hopefully you were able to take away one, two or maybe even three new websites to start utilizing within your classrooms.
Questions or comments? Share below!
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