Group 4 Tools - Animations & Simulations

There are so many tools available that it is hard to know where to start.  With a lot of the tools free and functionality much the same throughout, it would be very easy to utilise any of these tools to link or scaffold activities when teaching in the classroom.  A lot of the tools are both visual and auditory so this will help with engaging students both when shown these tools, and when they are able to use them to complete their own activities.

I particularly like Google Maps and Dipity, a timelines tool, as they have so many applications and can be used across all the key learning areas.  These tools can demonstrate that distance that some topics have, such as geography and history, and also that there can be a lot of factors that make up a topic, such as the environment and global warming.  I used Google Maps to find where I lived – majestic Pomona. 

I have also used ABC Reading Eggs previously.  I found the ABC Reading Eggs to be great for my 5 year with starting to learn to read.  The website is simple enough for him to navigate around, and he is completely involved as the game based activities which require his input continuously.  Repetition of sounds, letters and words means it is practice, practice, practice, and all within what seems like a game.  There is lots of verbally praise and virtual stickers and avatars are accumulating whilst conducting each lesson.  The further you get through the lessons the more additional activities you can do – a great way to keep them engaged and rewarded.  Visually it is very stimulating as well.  There is lots of colour and cute little animated characters, such as Sam the ant who narrates most of the activities and is used to theme the scenes with the activities.  I am getting my children to learn to read, while my child is getting to play on Mum’s computer.  A win win situation for us both.