Kevin's Top Ten Web Activities

 

1. Trackstar

Teachers use this simple tool to organize web content for their students. It truly keeps kids "on track," and allows the teacher to "hold their hands" as they get the best the Internet has to offer.

2. WebQuests

A WebQuest is an inquiry-oriented activity in which most or all of the information used by learners is drawn from the Web. WebQuests are designed to use learners' time well, to focus on using information rather than looking for it, and to support learners' thinking at the levels of analysis, synthesis and evaluation. In this workshop, we will complete A WebQuest about WebQuests.

3. ePals

ePals is a free service which allows you to establish e-mail communication with other classrooms around the world! Read some teacher testimonials here.

4. Dictionary.com and Thesaurus.com

This is a simple, fast loading Dictionary which can be integrated into dozens of classroom activities. Works as well as the book, maybe better!

5. MapQuest

Another powerful web "tool," Mapquest offers mapping, directions, and even overhead views of locations of your choosing. Use distances and travel times in your Math curriculum, or just use it for the more obvious mapping applications in your Humanities curriculum.

6. Decisions, Decisions Online

This is a "Web Product" of Watertown-based Tom Snyder Productions. Like the CD software, this is a great cooperative learning activity for grades 5 and up. I love it because it really exploits the multimedia and interactivity capabilities of the Internet. Try it free for 30 days (long enough to try it with your class), or subscribe for $60. They have other programs in development and some ready to go; check them out here.

7. Audio/Video/Photo Searches

Search Google using their Image Search feature, or add such words as "mp3" or "mpg" or "mov" to find audio and video of your search results. Use this method to illustrate presentations, or to bring poets, politicians, and historical figures to life in your classroom with audio and video recordings.

8. Little Explorers

Although this site is designed for students grades K-3, I have found this great illustrated dictionary useful with non-native speakers of English, as well as children with more visual learning styles.

9. Numbers in Search of a Problem

This site may be a little dated, but I like their philosophy: There are hundreds of sites just filled with numbers, numbers which students will be excited about working with. Make up your own equations, and send kids to the computer to get the latest stats!

10. Virtual Field Trips

This is but one of many Virtual Field Trips sites. Search Google for "(subject) virtual field trip" to find others!