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Subject Specific Tools - Secondary/Middle School

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Subject Specific Tools - Secondary/Middle School

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Subject Specific Tools - Languages/All Grades Subjects

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Subject Specific Tools - Languages/All Grades Subjects

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Communication (teacher to students, teacher to parents, school to family)

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Communication (teacher to students, teacher to parents, school to family)

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🔬 Science

1. Legends of Learning

Audience: Grades 5–9

Platform: Web-based; accessible on iOS, Android, and Chromebooks

Classroom Use: Facilitates interactive, standards-aligned science games covering topics like energy, ecosystems, and space.

Review: Educators praise its engaging, gamified approach to science education. Surviving A Teacher's Salary

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Tech resources that can be brought into the classroom

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Tech resources that can be brought into the classroom

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Who the tool is for: Suitable for elementary through high school students; great for educators in STEM and art.

Platform: A circuit board that connects to a computer via USB, allowing users to create their own interactive projects using everyday objects as input devices.

Classroom Use – STEM and Art Specific:

In the classroom, students can use Makey Makey to turn everyday items into touchpads, enabling projects that blend technology with creativity. For instance, they can create musical instruments from fruits or design interactive art installations.

Reviews & Ratings:

Makey Makey in the Science Classroom – Joylabz Official Makey Makey Store

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Class dojo

Who it's for: Elementary and middle school students, teachers, and families

Platforms: iOS, Android, Web

Classroom use: Use ClassDojo for classroom management by setting behavior goals such as “listening during instruction” or “cleaning up stations,” and award points in real time. Families can see progress through the app, reinforcing consistent expectations at school and home.

Review Highlight: ClassDojo is lauded for its user-friendly interface and real-time feedback capabilities, enhancing classroom management and parent-teacher communication.

-EduWave

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ExploreLearning Gizmos

Audience: Grades 5–12

Platform: Web-based (accessible on Chromebooks, Windows, Mac)

Classroom Use: Provides over 400 virtual math and science simulations (called "Gizmos"), including labs for physics, chemistry, biology, and earth science. Ideal for inquiry-based learning and visualization of abstract concepts (e.g., energy transfer, chemical reactions, circuits).

Review: Educators commend Gizmos for boosting conceptual understanding and enhancing lab-based science classes.

🔗 EdSurge Review

🔗 Sample classroom feedback: Gizmos on Edutopia Discussions

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3. Learn Genetics (University of Utah) Audience: Grades 7–12 Platform: Web-based Classroom Use: Provides interactive modules on DNA, heredity, and biotechnology. Review: Highly regarded for aligning with life science standards and facilitating easy adoption in classrooms. Microsoft Training Support https://online.ucpress.edu/abt/article/79/4/333/20712/Review-Learn-Genetics?

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4. Visible Body Audience: Grades 8–12 Platform: iOS, Android, Web, and desktop applications Classroom Use: Features 3D human anatomy models for interactive learning in biology and health science courses. Review: Students report enhanced understanding of anatomy through its interactive tools.

https://www.visiblebody.com/customer-stories

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5. TypingClub Audience: Grades 4–12 Platform: Web-based Classroom Use: Offers structured typing lessons with progress tracking to improve digital literacy. Review: Users find it to be an effective and user-friendly tool for learning touch typing.

https://sloah.com/2016/11/20/typingclub-review

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We've been doing a lot of online studying, this week. One of our new favourites is an online program for learning to touch-type, so I thought I'd do a TypingClub review. It's completely free to open a basic account, and it's super easy to use. I set up a class for both my kids and added myself as a third student for testing purposes. Having personally tested the full set of lessons, which covers the full keyboard including numbers and special characters, I have to say it's pretty good.

TypingClub Review; Program Features

You get your own portal URL for your class, which is something like [homeschool-name].typingclub.com, and your students use their personal login details to access the course. Once they're in, the welcome interface displays their stats, a link to their earned badges, and a link to the typing course.

You can choose whether your students are allowed to skip ahead, or whether they must do all the lessons in the specified order. I think it's worth doing lessons in a logical order, so kids can build on previous foundations. Of course, I learned to touch-type a very long time ago and it's hard to remember exactly what it felt like before I had this skill. You may want to allow skipping if your children already have some typing fluency.

The lessons include a typing guide (my son calls them "ghost hands") to show where your fingers should land. You can turn off the keyboard guide, or the "hands" guide, or both - as you prefer. However, I think it's a useful feature to leave enabled.

Mastering certain achievements earns merit badges - like Khan Academy and similar student programs. They're virtual "stickers" for the avid collector. As this is touch-typing, predictably the achievements include such highlights as typing speed but there's also duration, attempts, and accuracy. For the super keen, there's even a Weekend Hero badge if your child does some typing practice at the weekend!

TypingClub Review; Free Versus Pro

Several features are only available in the paid Pro Edition. These include typing tests, no adverts on the web pages, advanced reporting, and functional use of the EdClub iPad app. The Pro Edition also gives extended retention of student data; the Free Edition only stores detailed data for 30 days, although basic reporting remains available.

I'm not currently tempted to sign up for the Pro Edition; the cost is set to cover a minimum of 30 students, so I feel it's overkill for my needs as a homeschooler. It would be nice to have the advanced reporting, and it seems that the cute certificates of achievement are only for paying customers, but I think I'll manage without it.

As a basic touch-typing instruction course, the Free Edition amply meets my needs. I can do basic tracking of my children's work, they get immediate feedback on their efforts, and the merit badges/points earned are sufficient rewards.

All Hail Touch-Typing

Touch-typing is a very useful skill in this computerised era; being able to touch-type allows me to write faster, and better utilise my time. My younger child has spent about half an hour of continuous typing on the first 10 lessons. I completed the full 100 lessons in about an hour, at an average speed of 60 wpm (which isn't particularly fast for an adult). It was a mandatory subject when I was a schoolchild, and - so long as they find it reasonably fun - it's a life skill that I feel my kids ought to acquire. If you agree, I'd recommend giving TypingClub a chance; you've got nothing to lose!

TypingClub School Edition is available as Free or Pro. At the time of writing, the Pro Edition cost from $96.60 USD for one year. A free trial of the Pro Edition is available for 60 days, and the Free Edition is permanently free.

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TypingClub Review; Online Program to Learn Touch-Typing - SLOAH

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Review of TypingClub, an online program for learning how to touch-type. This TypingClub review covers product features and free v pro analysis.

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6. Microsoft Digital Literacy Curriculum Audience: Grades 6–12 Platform: Web-based Classroom Use: Covers essential digital skills, including internet safety, productivity tools, and cloud computing. Review: Utilized globally to enhance digital literacy and prepare students for the digital economy.

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/digital-literacy

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Digital Literacy courses, programs & resources | Microsoft Digital Literacy

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Discover Microsoft Digital Literacy courses. Learn how to use devices, software, and the Internet to collaborate and utilize information with digital literacy.

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🛠️ 1. Tinkercad (by Autodesk)

Audience: Grades 4–12

Platform: Web-based; compatible with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Chromebooks

Classroom Use: Ideal for introducing students to 3D design, electronics, and coding. Students can create simple 3D models for projects like designing prototypes or understanding geometric concepts.

Free Access: Completely free for educators and students.

Review: Highly recommended for its user-friendly interface and suitability for beginners.

https://www.sculpteo.com/en/3d-learning-hub/3d-printing-software/best-free-cad-software-selection/

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Best free CAD software | The Ultimate Guide 2022

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Which free CAD software should you download in 2022? Here is a selection of 27 free CAD software for your next 3D projects.

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8. Microsoft MakeCode Audience: Grades 5–12 Platform: Web-based; compatible with micro:bit, Adafruit, and other hardware Classroom Use: Provides a platform for students to learn coding through interactive projects and physical computing. Review: Praised for its ability to make coding accessible and engaging for beginners.

https://www.getmecoding.com/my-review-of-microsoft-makecode

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My Review of Microsoft MakeCode - Unleashing Creativity Through Code

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My review of Microsoft MakeCode unleashing creativity through code is written as a parent/teacher. If you are like me, you want your child or students to

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1. Shotcut Audience: Grades 7–12 Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux Classroom Use: Ideal for teaching video editing fundamentals. Students can create documentaries, science project presentations, or digital storytelling assignments using its multi-track timeline and support for various formats. https://www.techradar.com/reviews/shotcut

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Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you're buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Update: This review is for an older version.
For the latest release, see ourShotcut 22.03 review.

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Shotcut is easily one of the best free video editing software for Linux, Mac and Windows. As such, it can be of interest to those who would rather not be dependent on giant software corporations, but prefer the continual regular upgrades of a community of enthusiastic and dedicated developers.

This doesn't mean to say that Shotcut would be intimidating to newcomer to this field. Far from it. So let's take a look at the latest version and see what this software has to offer.

And for more creative tools, check out our reviews of the best video editing software.

The interface

The application appears pretty simple, yet hide a complex array of features. All commands appear on the screen, with various menus on the top, and tools above the timeline. The various panels can be repositioned, or even made as floating windows, and additional panels can be brought to the fore to add even more information on the screen at any one time.

These include audio meters and video scopes to monitor various aspect of your clips.

It's design can be as complex or as simple as you need it to be, and such versatility is always a big plus as it's an easy way to make you feel as if the interface works for you, and not the other way around.

Tools

When you start a new project, you're given the option of either leaving the resolution to 'automatic' (Shotcut will select the best one depending on the footage used), or set it to a specific dimension. You have a wide choice of presets, right up to 4K at 60fps, or you can also set it to 'custom' and specify the exact resolution and frame rate you want to work with.

Adding media is as easy as dragging and dropping. From there you can preview each by double-clicking on them, set In and Out points and drag the file from the preview pane directly onto the timeline. It's all pretty organic and intuitive, and works as you'd expect most professional video editors to.

At first glance, it appears as if you've only got one video layer to work with, but you can add as many video and audio layers as you need - the only catch is you need to do this manually. You can't, for instance, drop a clip above another in the timeline and have a new layer automatically appear for that clip to be added to. It's a shame that this isn't happening, but is a minor, although somewhat frustrating quibble.

Populating the timeline is very straightforward, and you can build an edit quickly with a combination of mouse, keyboard and icon controls.

When you're ready to apply effects to your clips, click on the Filters tab, bottom left of the interface, or on the Filters icon top of the interface (they both lead you to the same place). In order to see all available filters, you need to click on the '+' button, having selected a clip first. Filters are divided into tabs with the 'Favourites' being chosen by default, so don't think that those are the only ones available to you. You actually have a large selection of effects to choose from, from cropping and positioning, to three-way colour correction, chroma keying, and everything in between. There are even filters for working with 360 video. This is also the place where you can find text tools.

Regretfully there are no thumbnails to help you find what you're looking for, just a scrolling list. Thankfully, there's a search field at the top you can use to narrow down your search.

Keyframing

It's also incredibly easy to add keyframes to any value and alter it over time. Triggering the keyframe function replaces the timeline with the selected clip. Move the playhead and alter the value at the position to see the filter gradually change over time. You can also create more keyframes by double-clicking on the line itself in the timeline, and dragging the point up, down, left or right.

We did notice that the effect can take a few seconds to update, even on a modern machine.

Transitions

It's not clear at first how to add transitions, but the process is actually remarkably easy: just move a clip already in your timeline, over another. The further into the other clip you drag, the longer the transition will be. It's easy, although don't do this as you drag a clip in from the playlist, as this will merely overwrite the existing clip in the timeline: both clips must already be in the timeline for this process to work.

By default, the transition is a basic cross dissolve. To gain access to all the others Shotcut has available, right-click on the transition in the timeline and select 'Properties'.

Not as intuitive as it could be, but once you know, it's a pretty simple matter.

Export

When it's time to share your work with others, the Export feature is there, ready and waiting. It comes with a vast assortment of presets, from the standard H.264 or YouTube options, to animation presets (which preserve a project's transparency), audio only choices, exporting back onto a camcorder, onto a DVD, and even has legacy, lossless and stills options.

And that's not all: with the Advanced button selected, you can also fine tune your chosen preset - although this would be solely recommended for those who know what they're doing!

Final verdict

Shotcut is a very good well rounded video editor. Many free alternatives can leave a lot to be desired, adding veracity to the old adage that "you get what you pay for". Shotcut however bucks that trend. Yes there are a few niggling glitches and design decisions, but that's true for any software - paid or free.

As it currently stands, Shotcut is a very robust and stable video editing package (it only crashed on us once when we were trying it out), with numerous features, and a good amount of flexibility you help you customise the interface to suit your needs.

The fact it gets updated monthly is merely icing on the cake.

It's definitely worth taking it out for a spin.

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A free, open source video editor that makes movie making straightforward

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2. OBS Studio Audience: Grades 9–12 Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux Classroom Use: Excellent for recording lectures, student presentations, or live streaming school events. Its scene composition tools allow for professional-quality video production. Review: Highly regarded for its versatility and being open-source.

https://www.movavi.com/learning-portal/obs-studio-review.html

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3. Clipchamp Audience: Grades 6–12 Platform: Web-based; integrated with Windows 11 Classroom Use: Suitable for quick video projects like book trailers, social media content, or class announcements. Its drag-and-drop interface is user-friendly for beginners. Review: Noted for its simplicity and integration with Microsoft products.

https://www.techradar.com/reviews/clipchamp-review

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Microsoft’s Clipchamp offers simple and free video editing online

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4. CapCut Audience: Grades 6–12 Platform: iOS, Android, Web, Windows, macOS Classroom Use: Great for creating engaging short videos for platforms like TikTok or Instagram. Students can produce creative content for assignments or school promotions. Review: Recognized for its user-friendly interface and popularity among content creators.

https://www.producthunt.com/products/clipchamp/reviews

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Clipchamp Customer Reviews (2025) | Product Hunt

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See what 515 people are saying about Clipchamp on Product Hunt. Verified user reviews and testimonials from the Product Hunt community.

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ClassIn

Who it's for: K–12 and higher education teachers and students

Platforms: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android

Classroom use: Use ClassIn for time management by scheduling lessons and using the built-in timer and calendar to keep classes on track. For example, in a hybrid visual art class, you can schedule a 30-minute sketching session with visual timers and collect homework all in one dashboard.

Review Highlight: Users appreciate its comprehensive suite of tools for managing virtual classrooms and note its effectiveness in facilitating interactive online sessions.

- Software Advice

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PocketPoints

·       Who it's for: High school and college students

·       Platforms: iOS, Android

·       Classroom use: Use PocketPoints for classroom management by encouraging students to stay off their phones during lessons. When students lock their phones, they earn points they can trade for small rewards or privileges, helping minimize distractions during independent work time.

·       Review Highlight: While some users find the rewards motivating, others express concerns about limited reward options and the app's impact on battery life.

-       UBC Blogs+2G2+2The Tutor Resource

-       Sam's+1West Side Story+1

-       Apps Hunter

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Seesaw

·       Who it's for: K–12 students, teachers, and families

·       Platforms: iOS, Android, Web

·       Classroom use: Use Seesaw for time management by pre-scheduling assignments and using voice or video instructions to save time explaining tasks repeatedly. Students complete and submit their work asynchronously, freeing up teacher time for feedback and classroom facilitation.

·       Review Highlight: Seesaw is praised for enhancing student engagement and facilitating communication between teachers and parents, with a user rating of 4.8 out of 5

-       JustUseApp

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Tally Count

·       Who it's for: Teachers and students of all grade levels

·       Platforms: Web-based

·       Classroom use: Use Tally Count for classroom management by tracking team points during review games or participation. For example, during a game, increment a team’s tally when they ask thoughtful questions or support a peer’s idea, promoting respectful engagement.

·       Review Highlight: Users find it convenient and easy to use, appreciating its accessibility from any device with an internet connection

-       Huo's Coding Lab

-       Online Scoreboard and Scorekeeper App

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TeacherKit

·       Who it's for: K–12 and higher education teachers

·       Platforms: iOS, Android

·       Classroom use: Use TeacherKit for classroom management by recording behavior notes and patterns. For instance, if a student is consistently off-task during group projects, use the app to log incidents and share patterns with parents or intervention teams during conferences.

·       Review Highlight: Teachers value its comprehensive features for classroom management, though some desire improvements in the gradebook functionality.

-       Capterra

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Classroom Screen

·       Who it's for: Teachers of all grade levels

·       Platforms: Web-based

·       Classroom use: Use Classroom Screen for time management by displaying countdown timers, agendas, and traffic light widgets. During work time, set visual timers to guide transitions between brainstorming, creating, and cleanup, helping students stay focused and on schedule.

·       Review Highlight: Educators appreciate its versatility and ability to create a consistent classroom routine, which enhances student engagement.

-       Tech & Learning (2023)

-       EdTech Roundup (2022)

-        Educational Technology and Mobile Learning (2021)

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ClassRelay

·       Who it's for: Middle and high school students; teachers seeking behavior management through gamification

·       Platforms: Web-based (accessible via browser on laptops, Chromebooks, iPads)

·       Classroom use: Use ClassRelay for classroom management by awarding students points during collaborative group work or clean-up routines. For example, in an art room, give points to teams who organize materials quickly and quietly, reinforcing positive behaviors and reducing transition chaos.

·       Review Highlight: Educators note that ClassRelay is a “seamless way to gamify your classroom with minimal setup,” and one teacher on Reddit described it as “Classcraft without the over-complexity—just plug in your class and go.” It’s still growing in adoption, but early feedback emphasizes its ease of use and positive student response

-       Reddit/r/teachers

-       teachertechwithliz.com

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Tinkercad

Who the tool is for: Upper elementary through high school students; ideal for STEM, art, and design educators.

Platform: Web-based (works on Chrome, Safari, and Firefox); also available as an iOS app.

Classroom Use – Design Class Specific:
In a design class, students can use Tinkercad to create 3D models for projects such as architectural prototypes, product packaging, or sculpture planning. For example, students designing sustainable housing can use the platform to draft eco-friendly tiny home models, allowing them to apply spatial reasoning, design thinking, and creativity in a tangible, visual format. The ability to export designs for 3D printing enhances hands-on learning and prepares students for real-world design workflows.

Reviews & Ratings:

Common Sense Education (Rated 4/5 stars):

“Tinkercad is easy to use, even for younger students, and supports creativity, design, and problem-solving in an accessible digital environment.”

EdSurge Product Index:

“A favorite among teachers introducing students to 3D design and engineering concepts.”

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Adobe Express (formerly Adobe Spark)

Who the tool is for: Upper elementary through high school students; great for art, ELA, and media literacy educators.

Platform: Web-based; apps available for iOS and Android.

Classroom Use – Visual Art Specific:
In a visual art class, Adobe Express can be used for digital poster design, visual storytelling, or portfolio creation. For example, students might design a digital collage that explores cultural identity or social justice using layers of text, images, and original artwork—enhancing both visual communication and design literacy.

Reviews & Ratings:

Common Sense Education (Rated 4/5 stars):

“Great tool for digital storytelling and multimedia presentations with an intuitive interface.”

Tech & Learning Review:

“Easy entry point into digital design—perfect for classrooms without advanced Adobe tools.”

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Flat.io

Who the tool is for: Middle to high school music students; ideal for general music education, band, and music theory classes.

Platform: Web-based; integrations available with Google Classroom and Microsoft Teams.

Classroom Use – Music Specific:
In a music class, students can use Flat.io to compose and arrange sheet music collaboratively. For example, during a music theory unit, students might write original compositions using key signatures and chord progressions, then share and revise each other’s scores in real time, promoting both musical literacy and digital collaboration.

Reviews & Ratings:

Common Sense Education (Rated 4/5 stars):

“A powerful and user-friendly composition platform that supports music learning and creativity.”

Music Ed Blogs & Forums:

“Great integration with Google Classroom. It’s become a go-to for remote and in-class music composition.”

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Audience: K - 12

Platform: iOS, Android, and Web

Classroom Use: Teachers use Kahoot! for formative assessment through gamified quizzes. Students see their rank and correct/incorrect answers instantly, while teachers receive a detailed report for feedback and reteaching.

Review: Praised for student engagement and effectiveness in reviewing material.

https://www.commonsense.org/education/reviews/3946616/teacher-reviews

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Audience: Teachers and students in all grade levels.

Platform: iOS, Android, and Web.

Classroom Use: Teachers assign quizzes as practice or homework. Students receive real-time feedback on each question, and teachers access analytics to monitor mastery and tailor instruction.

Review: User-friendly platform that is a fun game review and competitive if you play a live game with teams. Drawback is that you cannot re-do the same quizizz without paying.

Rating: 4.7/5.0

https://www.capterra.com/p/207437/Quizizz/reviews/

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Audience: 3–12 and post-secondary educators.

Platform: Web-based (all devices).

Classroom Use: Teachers can see student responses live while they work and provide instant feedback or corrections, enabling true formative assessment during the learning process.

Reviews: Valued for allowing timely interventions and ongoing learning checks. Users are only concerned with Data safety.

Rating: 4 / 5

https://www.commonsense.org/education/reviews/formative

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Audience: 3 - 12, teachers.

Platform: iOS, Android, and Web.

Classroom Use: Teachers insert questions into videos to assess comprehension. Students receive immediate feedback, and teachers track responses to guide instruction.

Reviews: Teachers love its ability to combine multimedia and embedded assessment for flipped or blended classrooms. Students do not find it very engaging.

Rating: 4.6 / 5

https://www.capterra.com/p/229864/Edpuzzle/reviews/

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Audience: k-12, Higher Ed, teachers.

Platform: iOS, Android, and Web.

Classroom Use: Teachers create quick formative assessments like exit tickets or quizzes. Students receive immediate results, and teachers use the data to adjust lessons in real time.

Reviews: Appreciated for its speed and effectiveness in classroom assessments.

Rating: 4.4 / 5

https://www.getapp.com/hr-employee-management-software/a/socrative/reviews/

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Audience: K-12, Higher Ed, Teachers

Platform: iOS, Android, and Web.

Classroom Use: Teachers embed polls, quizzes, open-ended questions into live or self-paced lessons. Immediate responses allow teachers to provide real-time feedback and adjust instruction.

Reviews: Strong reviews for engaging students and offering diverse assessment types in one interactive platform.

Rating: 4.7 / 5

https://www.getapp.com/education-childcare-software/a/nearpod/reviews/

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Audience: Grades 3 - 12

Platform: iOS, Android, and Web.

Classroom Use: Teachers post assignments with due dates, grade work, and give written or rubric-based feedback. Students receive and respond to feedback within the platform.

Reviews: Teachers appreciate its seamless integration with Google Docs, Forms, and Slides for assessing student work.

Rating: 4.6 / 5

https://www.softwareadvice.com/lms/google-classroom-profile/reviews/

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Audience: Grades 6 - 12.

Platform: iOS, Android, and Web.

Classroom Use: Teachers input grades and comments, allowing ongoing assessment tracking and detailed feedback reports for students and parents. It also supports standards-based grading and progress monitoring.

Reviews: Schools value it for centralizing assessment and communication with families. Parents value it for ability to stay updated with their children.

Rating: 4.4 / 5

https://www.softwareadvice.com/hr/powerschool-profile/reviews/

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Audience: Grades 1-12, Teachers, Parents.

Platform: Web-based with apps for iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS.

Classroom Use: Students can use Canva to create video essays, book trailers, digital storytelling projects, or public service announcements. They can combine their own video clips with images, text overlays, music, and narration to enhance their storytelling and demonstrate their understanding of a topic. Canva’s collaborative tools also allow students to work together in real time on group video projects.

Review: User-friendly and accessible. It is simple, collaborative and produces beautiful results.

https://www.stylefactoryproductions.com/blog/canva-review

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Audience: Grades 6 - 12, Teachers, Higher education.

Platform: Web-based (works on all major browsers); limited mobile functionality via browser (no dedicated app).

Classroom Use:
Students can use Animoto to create summative video projects, book reviews, historical timelines, or science process explanations. The platform allows them to combine images, video clips, text, and music to present their knowledge in a creative format.

Review: Easy to use with ready templates and variety of styles to use from. Great for beginners.

Rating: 4.2 / 5

https://www.capterra.com/p/158773/Animoto/reviews/

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Audience: High school and postsecondary students, educators in media, technology, or digital arts courses.

Platform: Windows, macOS, and Linux (desktop only).

Classroom Use :
Students can use Blender to create complex video projects, including animated shorts, visual effects sequences, 3D title intros, or cinematic trailers. For example, in a high school digital media class, students could design and animate their own characters, render scenes, and then edit their footage with Blender’s video editor to produce original films or presentations. It’s especially beneficial in STEM and STEAM programs focused on digital design and creative storytelling.

Review: Blender is a great solution for beginning modeling that and help anyone gain exposure to this kind of software before moving on to one of the bigger names.

Rating: 4.7 / 5

https://www.softwareadvice.com/video-editing/blender-profile/reviews/

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Audience: High school and postsecondary students; educators in media, film, broadcasting, or digital arts.

Platform Compatibility: Windows and macOS (desktop application via Adobe Creative Cloud subscription).

Classroom Use:
Students can use Adobe Premiere Pro to produce documentaries, interview segments, visual essays, or short films that incorporate advanced editing techniques.

Review: Clear, flexible interface. Responsive performance and fast rendering. Auto-transcribing and text-based editing. Excellent stabilization tool. Unlimited multicam angles. Many organization and collaboration tools. A bit on the expensive side if license not provided by the school.

Rating: 4.7 / 5

https://www.softwareadvice.com/video-editing/adobe-premiere-pro-profile/reviews/

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Audience: Teachers and students (K–12)

Platform: iOS, Android, and web browsers

Classroom Use: Teachers can post important updates or reminders to the class stream, visible to all students at once; teachers can leave private feedback on student assignments, allowing for one-on-one conversations about performance or revision; automatically emails students and guardians about new assignments, returned work, or comments; teachers can pose discussion questions that allow students to respond to the class or privately to the teacher; weekly or daily email summaries keep parents informed about student progress and class activity.

Reviews: Educators praise its ease of use and integration with other Google tools.

Rating: 4.6/ 5.0

https://www.capterra.com/p/186631/Google-Classroom/reviews/

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Audience: Teachers, school administrators, parents, and guardians (K–12)

Platform: iOS, Android, and web browsers

Classroom Use: Teacher can send weekly newsletters to parents, including updates on classroom activities, upcoming events, and student achievements. Parents can respond directly, ask questions, or sign up for volunteer opportunities—all within the same platform.

Reviews: Users appreciate its unified communication capabilities, though some mention a learning curve during initial setup.

Rating: 4.4 / 5.0

https://www.getapp.com/it-communications-software/a/parentsquare/reviews/

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ParentSquare Reviews - Pros & Cons, Ratings & more

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See the latest verified ratings & reviews for ParentSquare. Compare real user opinions on the pros and cons to make more informed decisions.

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Audience: Teachers, students, parents, and school administrators (K–12)

Platform: iOS, Android, and web browsers

Classroom Use: Teacher can schedule reminders for upcoming tests, share homework assignments, and send real-time updates about class activities. Parents receive these notifications instantly, ensuring they stay informed about their child's academic responsibilities.

Reviews: The app is so easy to use and it is great because you can do it successfully right from your phone.

Rating: 4.6 / 5.0

https://www.softwareadvice.com/student-engagement/remind-profile/reviews/

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Audience: Teachers, students, school administrators, and parents (K-12)

Platform: iOS, Android, and web browsers

Classroom Use: Teacher can post announcements, reminders, and quick notes to the entire class; teachers can give private feedback or public discussion on assignments; direct messaging between teacher and student, or to groups; schools can personalize communication and enable push/email alerts.

Reviews: Parents commend that Schoology offers progress updates for every assignment, so they don't have to wait for report card time to see how their child is performing in class, with their GPA being constantly revised.

Rating: 4.4 /5.0

https://www.softwareadvice.com/lms/schoology-profile/reviews/

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Audience: Teachers, students, school administrators, and parents

Platform: iOS, Android, and web browsers

Classroom Use: Teachers use Gmail to communicate with parents about upcoming projects and field trips. The teacher also collaborates with colleagues by sharing resources and updates using Gmail and Google Drive integration.

Reviews: Tech & Learning highlights Gmail’s usefulness in education “Gmail's integration with other Google tools like Calendar, Drive, and Classroom makes it an indispensable hub for school communication.”

Rating: 4.8 / 5.0

https://www.capterra.com/p/202338/Gmail/reviews/

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Audience: Teachers, school administrators, and families (especially those with multilingual backgrounds or limited English proficiency)

Platforms: iOS, Android, and web browsers. Parents can receive messages via the app or as regular text messages

Classroom Use: Two-way communication tool designed to connect educators with families through real-time translation in 100+ languages. Teachers type in English, and parents receive messages in their home language; parents can respond in their language, and teachers see it in English.

Reviews: Users highlighting the ease of use and accurate translations.

Rating: 4.8 / 5.0

https://apps.apple.com/us/app/teachers-talkingpoints/id1205379492

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Audience: School districts, administrators, and parent organizations to communicate with families

Platform: web-based platform. Flyers are delivered via email and web links

Classroom Use: Allows schools and districts to send digital flyers (like event notices, club info, community programs) directly to parents. It helps reduce paper waste and ensures consistent, centralized communication.

Reviews: Users appreciate that it modernizes school-to-home communication by replacing the clutter of paper flyers with sleek, mobile-friendly digital flyers.

https://www.glassdoor.com/Reviews/Peachjar-Reviews-E567274.htm

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Audience: School and district administrators to communicate with parents, students, and staff

Platform: iOS, Android, and via web-based portals

Classroom Use: Allows schools to send voice, text, and email messages to thousands of recipients quickly. It integrates with student information systems (like PowerSchool) to deliver automated attendance notices, weather-related closures, and general news.

Reviews: Users praise its reliability and automation features, though some find the interface dated.

Rating: 4.3 /5.0

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.schoolmessenger.recipient&hl=en_US

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DSLR Cameras

Description

Digital Single-Lens Reflex cameras are widely used by both amateur and professional photographers due to their versatility and high image quality. They are suitable for various skill levels and can be used on multiple platforms, as images can easily be transferred to computers, tablets, and smartphones (iOS and Android) for editing or sharing.

Classroom Use:

In educational settings, DSLR cameras can be integrated into photography or art classes, allowing students to explore concepts such as composition, exposure, and lighting. For instance, a project could involve students capturing portraits of their classmates, which teaches not only technical skills but also promotes collaboration and peer learning.

Reviews for the classroom

Below is an example of a blog post that discuss the DSLR camera

How DSLR Cameras Can Enhance Education – onCrash = Reboot();

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Who the tool is for: Upper elementary through high school students; ideal for computer science, robotics, and engineering educators.

Platform: Hardware product; integrates with various operating systems including Raspbian (Linux-based) and can be programmed using languages such as Python and Scratch.

Classroom Use – Computer Science Class Specific:

In a computer science class, students can use Raspberry Pi to learn programming, electronics, and robotics. For example, students can design and code simple projects like a weather station that collects data and displays it on a screen, enabling them to understand sensors, data processing, and programming logic. This hands-on experience encourages problem-solving, critical thinking, and creative solutions while giving them insights into real-world technology applications.

Reviews & Ratings:

Community Review of Raspberry Pi | Common Sense Education

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Who the tool is for: Ideal for aspiring podcasters, educators, and content creators at all levels, from beginners to advanced users.

Platform: A versatile set of tools including microphones, headphones, audio interfaces, and recording software that allows users to produce high-quality audio content.

Classroom Use – Media and Communication Specific:

In the classroom, students can use podcasting equipment to create their own podcasts, enhancing their storytelling and communication skills. They can interview peers, discuss current events, or present creative projects, fostering collaboration and critical thinking in the process.

Reviews & Ratings:

Below is a broader description of what you need for the classroom.

How to Create Student Podcasts in the Classroom: All Your Questions, Answered — helloteacherlady.com

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3D Printers

Who the tool is for: Perfect for students from middle school to college, as well as educators in STEM, design, and engineering fields.

Platform: A device that creates three-dimensional objects from digital models using additive manufacturing, allowing for intricate designs and prototypes.

Classroom Use – STEM and Design

Specific:

In the classroom, students can use 3D printers to bring their ideas to life by creating models for science projects, engineering designs, or artistic creations. This hands-on approach enhances problem-solving skills and encourages innovation, enabling learners to conceptualize and realize their visions in a tangible form.

Reviews & Ratings:

8 Best 3D Printers For Schools & Education 2024 - 3DSourced

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8 Best 3D Printers For Schools & Education 2024 - 3DSourced

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Though not positioned as a 3D printer for education, the Select Mini V2 is a cheap 3D printer and simple enough to use that every student could have their

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Who the tool is for: Ideal for students, educators, and professionals who need a versatile tool for note-taking, drawing, or digital design.

Platform: A writing instrument designed to capture handwritten notes and drawings digitally, often featuring pressure sensitivity and customizable settings for a more intuitive and creative experience.

Classroom Use – STEM and Art Specific: In educational settings, digital pens allow students to seamlessly transition between traditional note-taking and digital documentation. They can sketch complex diagrams, annotate documents, or express creativity in art projects, fostering a blend of traditional skills and modern technology.

Reviews & Ratings:

6 Best Digital Pens for Online Teaching: Top Picks - Graphy Blog

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Who the tool is for: Ideal for students, educators, and professionals seeking immersive learning experiences in various subjects.

Platform: A cutting-edge technology that transports users into virtual environments, allowing for interactive exploration, simulated experiences, and collaborative learning.

Classroom Use – STEM and Humanities Specific: In educational settings, VR headsets enable students to engage deeply with content, from exploring the cosmos in a science lesson to walking through ancient civilizations in history classes. This technology fosters critical thinking and creativity by making complex concepts accessible and engaging.

Reviews & Ratings: The best VR headsets for in the classroom - VR Sync

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Who the tool is for: Ideal for educators, speakers, and performers seeking seamless audio experiences in various settings.

Platform: A versatile audio technology that transmits sound wirelessly, providing freedom of movement and flexibility during presentations and performances.

Classroom Use – Engaging Audiences: In educational environments, wireless microphones enable teachers to interact with students without being tethered to a fixed location. This enhances dynamic teaching techniques, fosters engagement, and allows for real-time feedback and discussions.

Reviews & Ratings:

5 Best Wireless Microphones for Teachers.

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Who the tool is for: Students of all ages; ideal for enhancing typing skills in classrooms, remote learning, and personal development.

Platform: Web-based; accessible on any device with internet connectivity.

Classroom Use – Typing Skills Development: In a classroom setting, students can use Typing.com to practice their typing skills through structured lessons and fun games. For instance, during a language arts class, students may engage in timed typing exercises to improve their speed and accuracy, while also building their confidence in using the keyboard effectively.

Reviews & Ratings:

Typing.com Review for Teachers | Common Sense Education

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Scratch for Intro to Coding

Who the tool is for: Perfect for beginners of all ages, including students, educators, and hobbyists looking to explore the fundamentals of programming in a fun and engaging way.

Platform: Scratch is a visual programming language that allows users to create interactive stories, games, and animations using a block-based interface, making coding accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Classroom Use – Fostering Creativity: In educational settings, Scratch empowers teachers to introduce coding concepts through project-based learning.

Reviews & Ratings:

Top Resources to Get Started with Scratch for Introductory Coding.

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Teach This for ESL Students

Who the tool is for: Designed for ESL educators and learners aiming to make language learning engaging and effective in diverse classroom environments.

Platform: An educational resource that provides a wealth of teaching materials, activities, and strategies tailored to support language acquisition for non-native speakers.

Classroom Use – Enhancing Communication:Teach This empowers teachers to create interactive lessons that foster student participation and collaboration.

Reviews & Ratings:

ESL Activities Games Worksheets

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Who the tool is for: Designed for learners of all ages, educators, and parents seeking high-quality educational resources to enhance learning experiences.

Platform: An innovative online learning platform that offers a wide array of courses across various subjects, providing students with self-paced learning options and resources tailored to individual needs.

Classroom Use – Empowering Learning: In educational settings, Khan Academy empowers teachers to supplement their curriculum with interactive lessons and practice exercises. This fosters personalized learning, enables students to progress at their own pace, and encourages mastery of key concepts through engaging content.

Reviews & Ratings:

Khan Academy Reviews | Read Customer Service Reviews of www.khanacademy.org

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Duolingo for Schools

·       Who the tool is for: Middle and high school language learners; ideal for ELL, world language, or dual-language classrooms.

·       Platform: iOS, Android, and web-based; includes a teacher dashboard for classroom integration.

·       Classroom Use – Language Class Specific:
In a language classroom, Duolingo for Schools can reinforce vocabulary and grammar acquisition. For instance, teachers might assign specific skill sets (like verb conjugation or everyday phrases) for weekly practice. The teacher dashboard allows for monitoring student progress and providing targeted support, supporting differentiated instruction, and time-efficient lesson planning.

·       Reviews & Ratings:

- Common Sense Education (Rated 4/5 stars):

“Fun and engaging way for students to build language fluency at their own pace.”

-Edutopia Blog Feature:

“Duolingo's gamified approach keeps students motivated while providing helpful metrics for teachers.”