Science Snacks

We all know that students learn best when they combine "hands-on" with "minds-on" activities.  Sometimes, however, planning those hands-on experiences can be daunting.  Exploratorium takes the work out of planning simple science experiments.  These science "snacks" are organized by standards, topics, and alphabetically.

Analogies

Research supports the importance of being able to make comparisons with sound reasoning.  An article on Teachervision articulates this point. Listed below are three free apps for learners to begin practicing with analogies.

The user of this app will begin to build their understanding of relationships between concepts (words, shapes, etc.) 64 total analogies are included with this free app.

A 2nd version of the above mentioned app.

This version of the analogy app focuses on word analogies.

Pick-A-Path

Pick-A-Path

The Pick-A-Path app is an app that has been created by the NCTM.  The user chooses a path through different operations with the goal of reaching the target total.  This is great for building mathematical and reasoning skills.  As the levels go up, the game increases in difficulty. 

TeleStory

TeleStory

Have you ever wanted to be on TV?  Well, now you can be the star you have always wanted to be!  This app allows the user to become a character in their own TV show.  By using augmented reality tools, the user can change costumes and sets while they create their own unique TV show.  The completed show can then be exported to the camera roll of the iPad.  

Toontastic

Do you want a creative way to infuse 21st Century Skills with writing and literacy skills?  Look no further than this app.  Toontastic is a wonderful way for students to use their creativity while writing a story that allows them to select characters and settings while developing a plot that follows the "story arc" format.

Here is a great resource provided by Toontastic to use for planning.

Here are some examples of how teachers are using Toontastic in their classrooms.