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Showing posts with the label esl

Help Students Build Up their English with Spell Up!

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Have your students practice their spelling and pronunciation. This game requires students to spell out words to build the largest tower they can. As the tower goes higher, the words get more difficult. Once you make a mistake the tower will collapse. However, you can earn bonuses to level up and unlock achievements. You can also solve mystery words and jumbled words. You can find it at chrome.com/spellup. 

Google Docs Extension for ESL or Struggling Readers

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Read&Write for Google Docs  is a cool extension I found on  Web App Reviews  that can benefit ELLs and struggling readers. The extension provides you with a special toolbar on the top of your Google documents. Here is the list of tools your students can use: Dictionary Picture dictionary Play, pause, and stop text-to-speech (choice of male or female) Fact Finder (Google search results of highlighted a word or phrase) Translator Collected Highlight (sort highlights by color or position) Check out this video Web App Review made about the extension: 

Visuals for ELLs with WordFoto

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A key strategy in supporting ELLs in the classroom is the utilization of visuals. These visuals provide ELLs with pictures and text that can  help develop their vocabulary . According to a  blog post by Edutopia , utilizing visuals connects with ELA Standards (Common Core Standards): Integrate and evaluate information presented in diverse media and formats, including  visually , quantitatively, and orally. Use precise language and domain-specific vocabulary to inform about or explain the topic. WordFoto is a great iPad app ($1.99) that lets you turn your photos and words into visuals for your ELLs. Here is how it works: 1. Take a picture or choose a photo from your photo library.  2. Type in the word(s) of your object. 3. Crop, adjust the font style, and fine-tune your photo with the toolbar. You can save your photo to the Photo Library, and then share it on Facebook or email it to your student. 

#IfIhadGlass in My Classroom...

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Screenshots from the  Google Glass site Google Glass is an augmented reality eyewear that displays computer-generated data  to e nhance the user's perception of reality. According to its  official website , you can command the head-mounted display (HMD) device to:  take pictures record video share live streaming video give directions send messages answer "Google" questions (ex. Where is the Louve located?) translate languages It also uses  Google Now  to present you with relevant information without you even asking. You can apply for this Google device by answering the following question,  "What would you do if you had Glass?" Use Twitter or Google+ to answer the question with the hashtag #ifihadglass. #IfIhadGlass I would use it in the classroom.  Share Priceless Learning Moments Hands-free picture-taking and video recording will allow me to never miss my students' priceless learning moments. I would...