Thursday, June 23, 2016

So You Need To Do A Book Report?

PowToon

PowToon is a nifty video making website that students and teachers can use for many different projects. You can make any subject into a cool video by using animated people and your own text. There are many different templates to use that could inspire your project or you can start from scratch. You can even add your own voice to the video! The account is free to use but there are paid templates if you want to take it further. Students could do a book report, like the example I have below, on whatever they are currently reading in English, or even as a summer reading assignment. Teachers and librarians can also use this for class/library rules, or even explaining a project. Overall, the website is fun to use and offers so many options for students to play around with. The only part I had difficulty with was adding my own elements and using the timer slider at the bottom when creating, but with patience it can be done! 





Pixiclip

Pixiclip is a tool that allows the user to draw or upload images and add both voice and video to them using their computer mic and camera. This is an interactive whiteboard that a student could use to present information. They can write on the whiteboard while talking and a video of the student will appear while they are drawing or writing. This is an excellent tool for complex math equations or working out experiments. It is extremely easy to use and free. I found the video addition really neat because it puts your face in a little box, but you still have the entire whiteboard area to write and explain. This is a great tool for students that allows them to use technology in a new way. 

Wideo

Wideo is a video making website that allows you to create presentations of all types to share. The free version allows you a 30 second video and allows you to embed, but there are paid versions that allow longer videos. You can start from scratch and add your own elements or use their templates. You can create holiday cards, slideshows, and product promotion slides with this website. Students can use this in their campaign for class president, or even if they are selling things in a fundraiser. It is fairly easy to use, especially if you choose an already made template. If you decide to start from scratch, you have many options like choosing your own font, pictures, and even music. Have fun! 

4 comments:

  1. I love your video with This One Summer! What a great way to use the tool with students. :)

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  2. I just started reading "This One Summer" and I am enjoying it. I was excited to see your video book report for it. Powtoon is definitely a useful classroom and library tool. Can't wait to use it with students!

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  3. Love that you used one of the books from 678 to complete your Powtoon for this class! Smart and also an excellent tool/way for students to do the same to create more engaging "book reports"! Go, you!

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  4. Thank you everyone, it was really neat using the Powtoon to do this!! And hehe thanks Theresa, didn't want to have to read another book when I had so many already in store!

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