1049 professional results | sort by:
return to subject listing
16 Variations on Think-Pair-Share to Keep Students Engaged - Edutopia
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This Edutopia article, "16 Variations on Think-Pair-Share to Keep Students Engaged," shares creative ways to update the classic Think-Pair-Share strategy to keep students engaged and...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 Edutopia article, "16 Variations on Think-Pair-Share to Keep Students Engaged," shares creative ways to update the classic Think-Pair-Share strategy to keep students engaged and actively involved in learning. The article explains how educators can expand the simple routine of thinking individually, discussing with a partner, and sharing with the class by incorporating variations such as drawing, rotating partners, collaborative writing, and small-group sharing. These strategies help increase participation, strengthen communication skills, deepen understanding, and give all students a chance to express their ideas across subject areas and grade levels.
tag(s): collaboration (139), communication (125), teaching strategies (83), thinking routines (61)
In the Classroom
Ask students a question about the lesson and have them first draw their idea rather than write it. Students can then explain their drawing to a partner before sharing with the class. Have students stand up, find a partner, and discuss a question or problem. After sharing, they find a new partner for the next question. Have students first talk with a partner, then join another pair to form a group of four, and finally share with the whole class.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!).
Big and Small Strategies to Harness the Power of Peer-to-Peer Teaching - Edutopia
Grades
3 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This Edutopia article, "Big and Small Strategies to Harness the Power of Peer-to-Peer Teaching," explains how students can improve their understanding and retention by teaching one...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 Edutopia article, "Big and Small Strategies to Harness the Power of Peer-to-Peer Teaching," explains how students can improve their understanding and retention by teaching one another. The article describes simple and structured strategies such as Think-Pair-Share, jigsaw groups, and peer tutoring, all based on the idea that students learn more deeply when they explain ideas to classmates. It offers practical classroom ideas for use in any subject and grade level to increase participation, collaboration, and confidence while building a supportive learning community.
tag(s): collaboration (139), professional development (297), teaching strategies (83), thinking routines (61)
In the Classroom
Ask a question about the current lesson, have students think quietly, discuss with a partner, and finally share with the class. After a short mini-lesson, have students turn to a partner and explain the concept in their own words. The partner listens and then adds anything missed. Divide a topic into sections and assign each group one part to learn. Students become experts on their section and then teach it to a new group.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
Make Me Laugh: The Epic Librarian List of Funny Books for Kids - New York Public Library
Grades
2 to 6
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This blog post from the New York Public Library shares a collection of funny book recommendations for kids, showing how humor can help students enjoy reading and develop a love ...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 blog post from the New York Public Library shares a collection of funny book recommendations for kids, showing how humor can help students enjoy reading and develop a love of books. The list includes laugh-out-loud stories, silly characters, and humorous situations that appeal to young readers and can motivate reluctant readers to spend more time with books. The article suggests that when children read books that make them laugh, they become more engaged, more willing to read independently, and more likely to see reading as fun rather than a chore, making humorous books a great addition to classroom libraries and read-aloud time.
tag(s): blogs (82), book lists (165), classroom management (146), humor (24), teaching strategies (83)
In the Classroom
Introduce a lesson by reading a short, funny passage from one of the recommended books and asking students why it is funny. Have them identify the words, actions, or situations that make the story humorous. Create a classroom humor book bin using titles from the list and allow students to choose one for independent reading time. Students can keep a reading log in which they write down their favorite funny line or scene. Hold a "Make Me Laugh" book talk activity where students recommend a funny book to the class and explain why others should read it.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
Using Humor in the Art Room - The Art of Education University
Grades
4 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This podcast episode from The Art of Education University discusses how teachers can use humor in the classroom to build relationships, increase engagement, and create a safe learning...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 podcast episode from The Art of Education University discusses how teachers can use humor in the classroom to build relationships, increase engagement, and create a safe learning environment, especially in the art room. The speaker explains that humor can help students feel comfortable and more willing to take risks. Still, teachers should be thoughtful about how they use jokes, sarcasm, and playful comments, as students may interpret them differently. The episode shares examples such as intentionally making mistakes during demonstrations, using lighthearted comments to keep students engaged, and choosing humor that supports learning rather than embarrassing students. Overall, the message encourages teachers to use humor intentionally to make class enjoyable while maintaining a respectful, supportive atmosphere.
tag(s): classroom management (146), humor (24), podcasts (173), teaching strategies (83)
In the Classroom
Start a lesson by intentionally making a funny mistake during a demonstration, such as using the wrong color, holding a tool incorrectly, or pretending to forget a step. Ask students to catch the mistake and explain how to do it correctly. Use lighthearted class discussions about appropriate humor, asking students when jokes are helpful and when they might hurt someone's feelings. Try a teacher-student improv activity where students quickly add a funny detail to a drawing, story, or idea the teacher starts.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
Why Can't Teachers Be Funny in School? - Trainers Warehouse
Grades
3 to 8
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This blog post from Trainers Warehouse explains how using classroom humor can make learning more engaging, memorable, and enjoyable for students. The article encourages teachers to...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 blog post from Trainers Warehouse explains how using classroom humor can make learning more engaging, memorable, and enjoyable for students. The article encourages teachers to include funny activities, jokes, games, and playful routines to help students relax, participate more, and feel comfortable taking risks while learning. Suggestions include using silly introductions, humorous writing activities, improv games, movement breaks, funny prompts, and lighthearted classroom challenges to keep energy high and attention focused. The post also notes that laughter can reduce stress, improve mood, strengthen relationships, and help students remember what they learn, making humor a powerful tool for building a positive classroom environment.
tag(s): blogs (82), classroom management (146), humor (24), teaching strategies (83)
In the Classroom
Use content-based humor activities like Mad Libs, limericks, or funny captions related to the topic you are teaching. For example, students can fill in missing words in a paragraph about the lesson or write a humorous rhyme using vocabulary terms. Begin a lesson with a funny introduction activity, such as having students introduce themselves using emojis, memes, or silly voices. Incorporate movement-based humor activities like funny walks, freeze poses, or short dance breaks.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
How to Easily Infuse More Humor into Your Classroom - Beginning Teacher Talk with Dr. Lori Friesen
Grades
K to 8
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This video explains how teachers can use humor to create a positive, engaging classroom environment and build stronger relationships with students. The speaker shares practical ideas,...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 video explains how teachers can use humor to create a positive, engaging classroom environment and build stronger relationships with students. The speaker shares practical ideas, such as telling jokes, using funny voices, adding silly props, creating playful routines, taking brain breaks, and leaving surprise notes, to help students feel relaxed and connected. The video emphasizes that humor helps students feel safe, increases engagement, and improves classroom management by making them more willing to participate in a fun, supportive atmosphere. Teachers are encouraged to try small strategies that match their personality and gradually add more lighthearted moments to make learning enjoyable. This video is hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, the video may not be viewable at school.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): classroom management (146), humor (24), teaching strategies (83)
In the Classroom
Start the day with a joke or a funny daily announcement to create a positive classroom mood. Use silly writing prompts or creative challenges connected to your lesson. For example, ask students to write a story funnily using vocabulary words, such as "What would happen if a dinosaur became the principal?" Create a class mascot, puppet, or character that gives directions, asks questions, or leaves notes for students. The mascot can review content, introduce lessons, or offer hints, making learning more memorable and increasing student engagement.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
Teaching Students How to Identify Credible Sources - edutopia
Grades
3 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Teaching Students How to Identify Credible Sources is an article about teaching students to identify reliable sources in the digital age. The article outlines the CRAAP model: Currency,...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:
Teaching Students How to Identify Credible Sources is an article about teaching students to identify reliable sources in the digital age. The article outlines the CRAAP model: Currency, Relevance, Authority, Accuracy, and Purpose. It also shares ways to use the CRAAP model, including: using Kahoot or Waygrounds, scavenger hunts, races, debates, and more.
tag(s): evaluating sources (54), Research (91)
In the Classroom
Create an interactive game using Kahoot!, reviewed here or Wayground (formerly Quizizz), reviewed here to use the CRAAP model to evaluate sources. Students can create an infographic showcasing the model using Infographics Presentation Templates, reviewed here. Students can use Google Keep, reviewed here to create a list of reliable sources.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
GoComics A to Z - GoComics
Grades
4 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
GoComics A-Z is an extensive online collection of classic and contemporary comic strips, featuring hundreds of popular titles that appeal to a wide range of readers. Browse beloved...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:
GoComics A-Z is an extensive online collection of classic and contemporary comic strips, featuring hundreds of popular titles that appeal to a wide range of readers. Browse beloved favorites such as Peanuts, Garfield, Calvin and Hobbes, Big Nate, Ziggy, and many others, or discover new comics organized alphabetically for easy exploration. Each comic includes an About section that provides background information about the series and its creators, helping readers better appreciate the characters and themes. Because the collection includes comics intended for audiences ranging from children to adults, teachers should preview selections before sharing them with students to ensure the content is appropriate for their grade level and classroom setting.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): comics and cartoons (67), media literacy (130), satire (7)
In the Classroom
Students can share their favorite comic on Padlet, reviewed here. Students can use Cartoon Comic Maker, reviewed here to create their own comic with their favorite comic cartoon. Students can use Kiddle, reviewed here, to learn more about the comic creator.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
A Point of View Lesson Using Comic Strips - Teaching Made Practical
Grades
3 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Help students master perspective through creative storytelling with A Point of View Lesson Using Comic Strips. This classroom resource demonstrates how creating comics can strengthen...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:
Help students master perspective through creative storytelling with A Point of View Lesson Using Comic Strips. This classroom resource demonstrates how creating comics can strengthen students' understanding of point of view by engaging them in both visual and written storytelling. The article shares five practical lesson ideas, including creating comic debates, comparing characters' perspectives, analyzing or challenging an author's point of view, illustrating how different people experience the same event, and practicing first- and third-person narration. In addition to instructional strategies, the resource includes book recommendations, free comic strip templates, and an example lesson using MakeBeliefsComix to guide students through the comic creation process. These activities provide engaging opportunities to reinforce reading comprehension, writing, and critical thinking skills across grade levels.
tag(s): comics and cartoons (67), perspective (33), point of view (9)
In the Classroom
Have students retell a scene from a novel or a historical event from the perspective of a different character. Students should illustrate how the character's thoughts, feelings, and motivations change the story. Assign students two opposing viewpoints from a historical event, scientific issue, or current topic. Working in pairs, students can create comic strip conversations with Cartoon Comic Maker, reviewed here that present each side's reasoning and evidence before discussing which arguments are most convincing. Ask students to identify the author's point of view or theme in a text. Students can create an original comic with Comic Strip Templates by Canva, reviewed here that either supports, questions, or offers an alternative perspective to the author's message. Finish with a gallery walk where classmates explain the evidence behind their creative choices.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
Using Comics to Teach the 4 Cs - edutopia
Grades
4 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Edutopia's Using Comics to Teach the 4 Cs shares how comics can foster the 4Cs: creativity, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills in both elementary and secondary...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:
Edutopia's Using Comics to Teach the 4 Cs shares how comics can foster the 4Cs: creativity, critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills in both elementary and secondary classrooms. The article shares how comics develop each of the 4Cs, including resources and tools to use. In addition, comics also enrich verbal and visual skills as students use and create them.
tag(s): collaboration (139), comics and cartoons (67), creativity (93), critical thinking (189), thinking skills (137)
In the Classroom
Students can use Witty Comics, reviewed here to create a comic about their favorite book scene. Students can use Comic Strip Templates by Canva, reviewed here to teach about a significant historical event. Students can use Witty Comics, reviewed here to create political cartoons.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
Quillbot - Learneo
Grades
4 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
QuillBot is a writing platform that uses AI to help students and teachers refine their writing using tools organized into categories such as writing, creation, file converters, and...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:
QuillBot is a writing platform that uses AI to help students and teachers refine their writing using tools organized into categories such as writing, creation, file converters, and more. Most tools are available in several different languages. The free version offers a paraphraser with a 125-word limit, two writing modes, Standard and Fluency, and a basic synonym slider to adjust how much the vocabulary changes. It also includes a grammar checker that identifies spelling and punctuation errors, a summarizer with a 1,200-word capacity, and a citation generator for various academic styles. Many tools require registration to use them. Visit the pricing page to verify what the free plan includes. QuillBot offers extensions for major browsers and apps across all major platforms, including Apple and Android.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (346), chat (41), DAT device agnostic tool (133), editing (96), grammar (142), images (273), summarizing (30), writing (309)
In the Classroom
Include this tool to engage students in a vocabulary-expansion workshop. Start by having students paste a simple or repetitive paragraph into the paraphraser to see how changing modes or sliding the synonym bar transforms the tone and complexity of their work. This activity provides immediate, visual feedback on how word choice impacts a reader's perspective. To extend the lesson, have students take their favorite AI-generated variations and organize them into a structured debate regarding which version is the most persuasive using Kialo Edu, reviewed here. Extend learning by having students use their refined text to create a high-quality audio recording of their revised arguments using Adobe Podcast, reviewed here, demonstrating their ability to adapt writing for different audiences and professional formats.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
Google Fonts - Google
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Google Fonts is a free online library that allows teachers and students to browse, preview, and download hundreds of open-source fonts for use in documents, presentations, websites,...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:
Google Fonts is a free online library that allows teachers and students to browse, preview, and download hundreds of open-source fonts for use in documents, presentations, websites, and creative projects. The site makes it easy to search for fonts by style, language, or popularity, and users can use all fonts for free for school projects, print materials, or digital work. Because the fonts are free and easy to use, the site helps improve the design of slides, posters, reports, and multimedia projects while also introducing students to basic ideas about typography and visual communication.
tag(s): multilingual (82), presentations (47), Teacher Utilities (222)
In the Classroom
Give students words such as scary, funny, serious, or exciting. Students can choose fonts that match each mood and create a title using that font. Discuss how the look of the letters changes how the message feels, connecting to tone and the author's purpose. Have students take an old slide presentation or report and improve it by selecting better fonts for titles, headings, and body text. Teach students that font style can change meaning just like word choice. Have students create the same sentence in different fonts to convey different feelings or purposes, then share and discuss how the design affects understanding.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
Buffer - Buffer
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Buffer is a social media management platform that simplifies planning and sharing content across multiple networks. The free version allows you to connect up to three social media channels,...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:
Buffer is a social media management platform that simplifies planning and sharing content across multiple networks. The free version allows you to connect up to three social media channels, such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or LinkedIn, and maintain a queue of ten scheduled posts per channel at any given time by clicking the Manage Channels button at the bottom of the dashboard and authorizing each platform. Navigate to the Posting Schedule under each channel's settings to designate specific days and times for your updates to go live automatically.
tag(s): communication (125), social media (64)
In the Classroom
Use Buffer as a time-saving resource to maintain a professional, consistent social media presence for a classroom or school organization without having to post manually throughout the day. Teachers can dedicate a single planning block to batch-scheduling a week's worth of reminders, student shout-outs, and curriculum updates, ensuring parents and the community stay informed. To create visuals for these updates, design custom graphics or short promotional clips using Adobe Express Video Maker, reviewed here. Once these visuals are ready, users can upload them to Buffer with captions that link back to a more detailed classroom site created with Google Sites, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
The Frayer Model - A Tool to Explain Concepts - Byrdseed, LLC
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Frayer Models are popular teaching tools. This article explains how to use Frayer Models to go beyond defining vocabulary and terms and to use them as a powerful method for ...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:
Frayer Models are popular teaching tools. This article explains how to use Frayer Models to go beyond defining vocabulary and terms and to use them as a powerful method for fully explaining concepts. The author shares a brief history of the introduction of Frayer Models, a video explanation of the concept, and many fully developed examples of how to explain concepts in depth using the four components of the Frayer Model. You can also download a free, ready-to-use PDF organizer template to get started in your classroom immediately.
tag(s): graphic organizers (58), professional development (297), thinking skills (137), visual thinking (16), vocabulary (252), vocabulary development (103)
In the Classroom
After spending time learning how to use Frayer Models to develop larger concepts, use this model to introduce big idea vocabulary or complex themes at the start of a new unit. Instead of a standard worksheet, have students collaborate on a digital version of the organizer. After exploring the characteristics of a concept on the site, students can build an interactive infographic using Genially reviewed here to visualize their definitions and examples with embedded media. For a math or science lesson, students could analyze a concept like polygons or mammals and then create a digital concept map in MindMup reviewed here to show how different subtopics branch off from the core definition. To wrap up the activity, have the class vote on the best non-examples provided by their peers to ensure everyone truly understands the term's boundaries.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
EduProtocol Video Playlist - Marlena Hebern
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
This YouTube playlist features instructional videos and demonstrations focused on EduProtocols, a set of free, customizable lesson frames designed to maximize student engagement and...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 YouTube playlist features instructional videos and demonstrations focused on EduProtocols, a set of free, customizable lesson frames designed to maximize student engagement and minimize teacher prep time. These strategies work across all grade levels and subject areas, shifting the focus from content delivery to active information processing. The videos break down popular protocols like the Fast and the Curious for vocabulary mastery, Iron Chef for collaborative research, and Cyber Sandwich for comparative writing. Each segment offers clear, step-by-step guidance on setting up the templates and implementing the routines in the classroom. Because these are hosted on YouTube, check to ensure your district doesn't block the site so you can access these helpful visual guides.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): critical thinking (189), professional development (297), thinking skills (137), visual thinking (16)
In the Classroom
Use this playlist as a helpful tool to learn about and successfully implement EduProtocols in your classroom. Learn more about EduProtocols by watching the archive of OK2Ask: EduProtocols for Student Engagement & Choice reviewed here. Extend learning after using EduProtocols by using resources such as Snorkl reviewed here to record brief explanations of student thinking, allowing you to see their logic in real time and check for understanding.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
EduProtocol Plus Sampler - EduProtocols Plus
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Access several support materials for EduProtocols with a free email signup to the EduProtocols Plus site. Materials include video and guiding documents for new users, eight lesson design...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:
Access several support materials for EduProtocols with a free email signup to the EduProtocols Plus site. Materials include video and guiding documents for new users, eight lesson design templates, book study materials, and more. The templates are available in Google Slides and include protocol directions, sample prompts, and a smart-start lesson plan. Sample live show recordings provide valuable visuals to help new (and returning) users plan and implement EduProtocols effectively to achieve deep student learning. The videos are hosted on YouTube. If your district blocks YouTube, then they may not be viewable.
tag(s): critical thinking (189), teaching strategies (83), thinking routines (61), thinking skills (137), visual thinking (16)
In the Classroom
Learn more about EduProtocols by watching the archive of OK2Ask: EduProtocols for Student Engagement & Choice reviewed here. Some of the protocols ask students to add an image; consider creating a folder for students to access free, copyright-free images using pictures available from resources on TeachersFirst Special Topics Page: Free Image Resources reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
Using AI to Differentiate Lessons for ELLs: Live Demo & Expert Tips - AFT Share My Lesson
Grades
3 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
What if you could create personalized supports for every English Language Learner in your classroom without spending hours rewriting lessons? This practical and engaging video explores...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:
What if you could create personalized supports for every English Language Learner in your classroom without spending hours rewriting lessons? This practical and engaging video explores how artificial intelligence can help teachers differentiate instruction for ELL students more efficiently. Through real-world examples and demonstrations, educators learn how to use AI tools to adapt reading passages, simplify complex texts, generate vocabulary supports, create scaffolded activities, and provide language accommodations while maintaining grade-level expectations. The presenters emphasize that AI should enhance, not replace, teachers' expertise, helping educators save valuable planning time while making learning more accessible and engaging for multilingual learners. The strategies shared can be applied immediately to support language development, comprehension, and academic success across content areas. This video is hosted on YouTube. Schools and districts that restrict access to YouTube may need alternative access options or require content to be previewed before classroom use.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (346), differentiation (100)
In the Classroom
Have students read the same content at different AI-generated reading levels. After reading, mixed-ability groups can discuss the main ideas and compare how the information was presented. This discussion helps all learners access grade-level concepts while building confidence and comprehension. Have students use AI-generated study guides that include simplified explanations, summaries, and comprehension questions. Students can review the material independently, then collaborate with classmates to deepen their understanding of the topic. Provide AI-generated writing supports such as sentence starters, paragraph frames, and model responses. Students can use these scaffolds to complete essays, reflections, or content-area writing assignments, gradually removing supports as their skills grow.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
How to Create Differentiated Multi-Level Lesson Plans with AI - GMind AI
Grades
3 to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Differentiation is one of the most effective ways to meet the needs of diverse learners, but creating multiple versions of lessons can quickly become overwhelming. This video introduces...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:
Differentiation is one of the most effective ways to meet the needs of diverse learners, but creating multiple versions of lessons can quickly become overwhelming. This video introduces the GMind AI Multi-Level Lesson Planner, a tool designed to help teachers generate differentiated instructional materials in minutes, not hours. The presenter demonstrates how educators can enter lesson objectives, grade levels, and standards, then use AI to create multiple versions of activities, questions, and learning supports tailored to different student readiness levels. Teachers will see practical ways to personalize instruction, provide appropriate scaffolds, and maintain rigorous learning expectations while significantly reducing planning time. This resource is especially valuable for educators looking to make differentiation more manageable and accessible in today's diverse class. This video is hosted on YouTube; schools that restrict YouTube access may need an alternative method for viewing the content.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (346), differentiation (100)
In the Classroom
After watching the video, have students work with a teacher-created lesson or reading passage and identify how it could be adapted for different learners. Small groups can create modifications for struggling readers, on-level learners, and advanced students, then compare their ideas with AI-generated suggestions. Have students act as teachers and use a planning template to create a mini-lesson for a younger grade. They must include at least three versions of an activity: one with extra support, one at grade level, and one enrichment option for advanced learners. Have students explore a content topic using a differentiated choice board that offers activities at varying levels of complexity. Using Adobe Express for Education, reviewed here, options may include creating an infographic, recording a podcast, designing a slideshow, writing a persuasive argument, or developing a teaching video. Students can select tasks that match their interests and learning preferences while demonstrating mastery of the content. Learn more about how to use AI to differentiate instruction by watching the archive of OK2Ask: AI for Differentiation, reviewed here.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
Photos for Class - StoryboardThat
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
Find free, safe educational images with the Photos for Class search tool. Find age-appropriate images fueled by Pixabay SafeSearch and proprietary filters, including automatic citations,...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:
Find free, safe educational images with the Photos for Class search tool. Find age-appropriate images fueled by Pixabay SafeSearch and proprietary filters, including automatic citations, and licensed by Creative Commons for public use. Begin by typing your search term or using the microphone. Select an image to add to a StoryBoardThat comic, reviewed here or download to your device. Use the three dots in the caption to follow the link to view the image on Pixabay, reviewed here.
tag(s): copyright (39), creative commons (29), images (273)
In the Classroom
Include a link to Photos for Class on student computers and your class website, along with other free image sites such as Pixabay, reviewed here and Unsplash, reviewed here. Find additional resources on the TeachersFirst Free Image Resources Special Topics Page, reviewed here. Use images for any purpose, including multimedia projects created with Canva Docs, reviewed here and Sway, reviewed here. Use the included citations to teach students about the ethical use of digital resources.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
Animal Humane Society - Animal Humane Society
Grades
K to 12
0 Favorites
0 Comments
The Animal Humane Society features an Educator Resource section that allows students to gather information on animal well-being for a school project, to look for a service project,...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:
The Animal Humane Society features an Educator Resource section that allows students to gather information on animal well-being for a school project, to look for a service project, or to search for engaging animal-related learning activities. Scroll to the bottom to find activities that include lesson plans, games, story time, crafts, and more for students in grades K through 12. Some of the videos are available in Spanish. Check with your district to ensure you can view the YouTube videos provided by the site.
In the Classroom
Students can use Vmaker, reviewed here to make a public service announcement on how to care for animals. Students can virtually interview a veterinarian. Students can look at the service projects, such as a bake sale or car wash, to help the Animal Humane Society.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Rating (click star to set rating):
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!).
Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
Close comment form