Challenge 6: Add-ons

Today, I explored many of the add-ons and extensions available within Google Docs, Sheets, and Forms.  I have added a few that I feel will be very helpful in the classroom.  There are so many add-ons to choose from.  The trick is to locate those which are easy and fairly intuitive, so as to not overwhelm your students.

The first add-on I chose was EasyBib.  EasyBib will be a helpful tool for my students when it comes to citing their resources.  I have been working really hard on teaching my students how to be good digital citizens.  I require students to give credit where credit is due and share the importance of this with them.  With a tool like EasyBib citations become much easier.  Students don’t have to search for all the information needed for a proper citation.  

The second add-on I will use is Kaizena.  This add-on allows you to add voice comments and links that will be helpful during the revision and editing steps of the writing process.  I find that my students like to hear recordings rather than read the comments I leave them.  It is another great way for me to interact with my students and provide meaningful feedback on their work.

The third add-on me students will use is Thesaurus.  In fourth grade, students need to start using more descriptive words in their writing.  I encourage them to try at least four new words during a writing assignment.  Having a built in thesaurus will make this suggestion easily achievable.  

Finally, I will use the Translate add-on when it is necessary to communicate to parents and students in another language.  I don’t always have time to send something off to translation services.