Resource 1:
Readworks is an
online program that provides reading material for grades K-12. They offer content in both fiction and nonfiction and it is categorized in a
variety of ways to enable users to align passages with the
comprehension skill they are targeting. They offer a read-aloud option
for students as well as scaffolded passages. There are also tools available that allow students to highlight or make
notes about their reading. In addition to the reading passages, question
sets are provided as well as vocabulary activities to build comprehension. Teachers can assign material online, print it for
classroom use, or project it for whole-group instruction. Students can
also access the student library for additional reading material. In Readworks students can be grouped so assignments can be differentiated for readiness and interest. It also provides support for ELL student
Readworks can be linked to various platforms including Canvas, Clever, and
Google Classroom for easy class import. It can also be assigned
directly to Google Classroom.
Reading topics can be chosen for cross-curricular instruction in science or humanities. It is a free program and offers tutorials, both written and video (on-demand
webinars), for teachers.
Resource 2:
Splashlearn is an
online math program that turns learning math into games. Teachers can
assign content or students can choose what they want to do from their
learning path. Splashlearn can sync
with Clever and Google Classroom to provide easier access for students. Students
immediately see their assignments or their learning path when they log in.
Splashlearn is also a free platform. It provides
assessments so teachers can monitor student progress and check readiness
for progressive skills. Teachers can also access reports for individual
students to see where their learning gaps are and what they might need
more support with, and they are also able to assign content to students in addition to the student's learning path. Additionally, worksheets can be downloaded and printed
from Splashlearn for learners who prefer a paper activity rather than an electronic
one. The interactive games that the practice is based around are appealing
to students who prefer watching a video or playing games to learn. Finally, Splashlearn will read questions and content to players, supporting students
with reading difficulties or ELL students.
Resource 3:
Google Slides is
another piece of technology that can be used to differentiate instruction. Google Slides
is a presentation modality done through technology that allows teachers to embed content for all types of learners. Interactive content can be included,
giving students access to other sites for learning. Videos can be
embedded in the slides for additional support in learning. Slides can be
turned into assigned content for students to complete. Brain breaks can
be included, as well as timers and many other sources of content.
The slide show can be presented to the entire class or posted in an LMS
for students to access independently. Google Slides allow teachers to create content to support all learning styles and interests. It is easily adjusted to the readiness levels of students and can be made as interactive as one prefers.
Google Slides works with the Google Suite of technology which includes Google Classroom, but can also be incorporated into other platforms such as Canvas or
Clever. It is user-friendly and help is readily found online. Google
Slides are free to use.
References:
Neumann, C. and Aguilera, M. (2021). Differentiated instruction techniques to reach everyone online. Distance Learning Administration 2021.
Google (n.d.). https://www.google.com/slides/about/#overview
Readworks (n.d.). https://www.readworks.org/
StudyPad, Inc. (n.d.). Splashlearn. https://www.splashlearn.com/
