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G Suite

This post is written by Kris Szajner, a tech integration specialist and former kindergarten teacher Prior Lake, Minnesota. You can follow him on Twitter @kszajner and check out his website kszajner.com.

Have you heard of Jamboard? It creates whiteboards that are a lot like slides. Looking for more collaborative activities to complete during distance learning? Look no further!

This free Google tool isn't just about expensive interactive displays.
Don't I need an expensive interactive display board to use it?
Nope! You can use the app for free on any device! It works with Google Drive and allows you to present your whiteboard to people viewing remotely. Which makes it a great online whiteboard option for distance learning.

What is Jamboard?

With Jamboard you can:

Add sticky notes, drawings, images, text and more.

Search Google and insert images or webpages.

Move images, texts, notes and drawings around on the screen easily.

Drag and resize text and images with your fingers.

Share your "jams" with others and let them collaborate.

Getting started with Jamboard

The Google Teacher Cente r has some great resources for educators looking to get started using Jamboard in your classroom.

Resources include:

a video library or tutorials

tips and trick from teachers

PDF guides

lesson plans and more

10 Jamboard Templates for Distance Learning

Pro Tip - Be sure students are not signed into Google and you have the permissions set to "anyone with the link is an Editor". This will ensure that each student is anonymous!

The Do More with Google Jamboard Online Course!

This course will introduce you to Jamboard features you might not know. It will give you dozens of ideas for using it in the classroom.

Plus, it provides you with:
- A collection of more than 100 templates.
- 40 activity ideas you can use immediately
- Tutorial slide s to use as a quick visual review.
- I nteractive infographics you can give your students
- Video playlists, posts, and extra resources.

Pro tip: Be sure students zoom into the canvas. This will make writing or drawing WAY easier!

Pro tip: Be sure students zoom into the canvas. This will make writing or drawing WAY easier!

For notifications of new Ditch That Textbook content and helpful links:

Are you looking for quality, meaningful professional learning that both equips and inspires teachers?

Matt provides in-person and virtual keynotes, workshops and breakout sessions that equip, inspire and encourage teachers to create change in their classrooms. Teachers leave with loads of resources. They participate. They laugh. They see tech use and teaching in a new light. Click the link below to contact us and learn how you can bring Matt to your school or district!

FREE teaching ideas and templates in your inbox every week!

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©2023 Ditch That Textbook by Matt Miller.

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10 Jamboard templates for distance learning

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This post has 10 engaging ideas for using Jamboard in your class that will get your students working together, even though they may not be face to face.

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Video is so easy to create in the classroom now. What used to take expensive equipment and advanced know-how can be created in seconds with devices we already have.

Video is a rich medium for learning. Students can practice speaking skills, show their passion through their voice, and make learning visible.

In summer 2019, Flipgrid ( flipgrid.com) released a new camera. All of its new features give students TONS of options for showing what they know and reflecting on learning:

Filters (including pixel mode)

Text boxes

Stickers (emojis, accessories, etc.)

Drawing/inking

Whiteboard mode

Live recording (make changes on the fly while recording)

Trimming and arranging video clips

This post by educator Mike Mohammad outlines all the new features. His graphics (see one above) are fantastic, showing you what everything does at a glance.

I saw these features and started thinking ...

You can do some high-quality learning with these features.

The camera goes farther than making prettier videos. They can lead to deeper thinking and more descriptive demonstrations of learning.

(Of course, they can be used superficially for just making videos prettier. And there's nothing wrong with prettier if that's your goal. But when we want to get the most out of technology for the sake of better learning, it has to go deeper than that. This new Flipgrid camera has tons of potential for that.)

So ... what would that look like?

Let's use Revised Bloom's Taxonomy as our guide. It looks at the depth of thinking and the type of knowledge students are working with.

Here are 20 practical Flipgrid activities you can use in your class that hit different levels of Revised Bloom's Taxonomy:

REMEMBER
Retrieve relevant knowledge from long-term memory
1. Vocab/spelling run-down

Students place vocabulary words on the screen as text boxes. (Or images of sight words ... or students type spelling words as they recall them. Ways they can practice the word:

Spell it

Use it in a sentence

Give synonyms/antonyms

Give examples/non-examples (Frayer model)

Give characteristics (Frayer model)

The words can start at the bottom of the screen. As they use a word, they drag the word to the top of the screen to make a list of words they've covered.

Note: For it to be true "remember" in Bloom's, students need to recall from long-term memory rather than recite it off a paper or screen in front of them.
Revised Bloom's category: remember + factual
2. Step-by-step tutorial with photos/icons

Students can take their own photos (or find photos licensed for reuse) illustrating steps of a process. They can even create their own images with tools like Google Drawings, Canva, The Noun Project (icons), Flat Icon, etc.

Option 1: They can leave the images at the bottom of the screen. Pull them to the top when they talk about them.

Option 2: They can pause the video and add an image to illustrate a step. Then start recording again. Pause, remove an image, add a new image, start recording again.
Revised Bloom's category: remember + procedural
3. Thinking about thinking strategies

Do you have favorite learning strategies that you share with your students? Encourage them to think about the way that they think? (If not, here are seven strategies you can use.)

Students could record these as informational videos for other students. (Really, as much for themselves as others.)

They could also record them as advice videos. They could advise students how to use the strategies in different situations.
Revised Bloom's category: remember + metacognitive (information videos) or apply + metacognitive (advice videos)
UNDERSTAND
Construct meaning from instructional messages, including oral, written and graphic communication
4. The sticker/picture shuffle

Once students have learned something new, it's helpful for them to show what they know. They can do that with stickers/emojis, images, and even short video clips.

Student can use these "virtual visual aids" to describe what they've learned in their own words.
Revised Bloom's category: understand + factual
5. The one-problem deep dive

Solving lots of problems can be good repetition for practice. But doing a deep dive into one problem gives insight into how the student thinks. It helps the student better understand how he/she thinks. It helps the teacher see how the student sees the work.

Students can take a picture of a problem - one they've written on to solve or a "clean" problem they haven't written on. They place the problem on one side of the video and their head/shoulders on the other. They can point to the parts of the problem and talk the viewer through their process.
Revised Bloom's category: understand + procedural
6. Sort into categories

More or less? Column A or column B? To help students understand the relationship between items they've learned, they can sort them into categories.

Student places himself/herself in the middle of the video. They can prepare the items on the list in multiple text boxes ahead of time (or pause the video and add them individually). In the video, he/she places items in one column over the right shoulder or in another column over the left shoulder.
Revised Bloom's category: understand + conceptual
APPLY
Carry out or use a procedure in a given situation
7. Speak for characters with emojis

Sometimes, we want students to understand characters, historical figures, people they're studying. When they really understand those people, students can imagine what they might say or how they would think.

Students can answer questions posing as a person they're studying. (i.e. Based on what we've learned, what would a past president think of the current state of the country?)

To add to the experience, students can place emojis, stickers or even photos of these people over their faces in the video while they talk. They can even try their hand at a spoken accent!
Revised Bloom's category: apply + conceptual
8. Give advice with points

Once students have experienced something, it can be fun for them to give advice to others based on what they've learned and seen. It could be school-related (how to survive ninth grade) or content-related (how a historical event could have played out better).

Students can record their best advice in a video with a summary of their suggestions in text boxes. They can drag their points onto the screen, pause to add new text boxes, or just point to the list as they talk!
Revised Bloom's category: apply + conceptual
9. The "Who Am I" game with pixelization

Students print a picture of a historical character, a character in a story ... basically a person. They use the picture to cover their face. Then, they record themselves describing the character. (They can even read a script off the back of the printed picture!)

The catch? They have the pixelize filter on! Anyone watching the video can't tell who they're portraying. At the end of the video, after they've given all of the facts, they turn the pixelize filter off and the viewer can see who they're supposed to be.
Revised Bloom's category: apply + factual
10. Talk about learning strategies

In an earlier activity, students shared learning strategies. In this activity, they can apply them - and help others to apply them.

Students share an activity, a learning experience - some time they used strategies for learning. They can list important points with text boxes. They can illustrate how they felt with stickers and emojis.

This activity helps the student recording the video to reflect. It also helps students watching the video to get new ideas!
Revised Bloom's category: apply + metacognitive
ANALYZE
Carry out or use a procedure in a given situation
11. This or that

No two lists have to be created equal. Take a list of facts, a list of people, a top 10 list, a music playlist. Compare it to another. Analyze: Which list is more complete? What does one have that the other does not?

Take a screenshot of each list or create a text box for each list. Put one on either side of the student's head with his/her head in the middle. Then, discuss!
Revised Bloom's category: analyze + factual
12. The roving reporter

In newspapers and television, a reporter might hit the street to interview several people. When finished, that reporter composes a story analyzing his/her findings.

Students can do the same! Have a student join someone else on camera. It could be a fellow student, a teacher, a family member - anyone! The student conducts a quick interview (maybe just one question). When finished, the student clicks the arrow button in the bottom right corner of the camera to save that video as a clip. The student then goes back to the camera to record another clip, interviewing another subject.

When finished, the student can sort the video clips, moving alike responses next to each other. The student can even summarize the findings at the beginning or the end like a reporter would
Revised Bloom's category: analyze + conceptual
13. How's it different now?

Students can learn a simple set of steps. But what happens when there's an anomaly? When something doesn't go according to plan?

This is where analysis comes in. Using the steps from #2 above (step-by-step tutorial), students take a twist: what does the exception to the rule look like? How is it different when the circumstances change?
Revised Blooms' category: analyze + procedural
EVALUATE
Make judgments based on criteria and standards
14. Book compare/contrast

Reading a book and recalling facts/happenings is one thing. To go deeper, students can compare books, stories, characters, settings, etc.

To start, they can upload the covers of two books, images of two characters, etc. Then, they can compare/contrast. Students can pause the video to swap out images.

Another approach: list several characteristics of the two compared things. (i.e. plot, setting, characters, etc.) With a list for each book, students can use the inking feature to cross out characteristics they don't have and circle the characteristics they do have.
Revised Bloom's category: evaluate + conceptual
15. Instant replay commentary

Students perform a variety of tasks: speeches, demonstrations, music, athletic feats, etc. Students can upload a short video of a task - one they performed or performed by someone else. Then, they can critique the video, listing the good and the bad.

Option 1: The student can record a quick video introducing the video, then show the video of the task, then offer the commentary.

Option 2: Instead of showing the video of the task in one sitting, the student can trim the video to show one part - then record a quick commentary video. The student can upload the video again and trim it down to the second part - then record a quick commentary. That helps the viewer to see more specifically what the student on camera is talking about.
Revised Bloom's category: evaluate + procedural
16. Critique the pro writer

(with screenshots) based on your class's essay rubric (evaluate + conceptual)

Do the pros - journalists, authors, poets - meet the criteria we use to evaluate work in class?

Students can read something written by a "pro" and evaluate it with the same writing rubric the teacher uses. Afterward, have the student grab a few screenshots of positive/negative examples to share.

During a recording, the student can evaluate the pro's writing with the class rubric, pausing to upload screenshots of examples to show the viewer.
Revised Bloom's category: evaluate + conceptual
17. Check in on your goals

What are your goals? How will you know you've reached them?

What's your progress? How do you know?

When students take control of these questions, they start to own their learning. They're in control. Videos are a great place to set goals and to show progress. Create a grid with a topic for each student. Students can share their updates and check-ins on their own topics with short videos throughout the year. At the end of the year, they can look back over their skills and see their progress.
Revised Bloom's category: evaluate + metacognitive
CREATE
Put elements together to form a coherent whole: reorganize into a new pattern or structure
18. Present mini posters

In the "factual" category, it's easy to get stuck in recall mode: drill and kill. Making something with facts students have learned gives it a different dimension. Plus, when what they create has visual elements, it connects with the brain in a different way.

Mini posters are a quick way to create with facts. Turn on whiteboard mode. Add photos and text. Then, students can present their mini-posters to add a layer of verbal communication to the activity.
Revised Bloom's category: create + factual
19. Create a dream team

Create a dream team of scientists. Authors. Historical figures. Then, make your case. Why do the ones on the team make it? Pick some that aren't on the team and explain why they didn't make it. Photos of the members of the team and some text boxes with their accomplishments are the icing on the cake.
Revised Bloom's category: create + conceptual
20. Create a learning portfolio

In #17, we shared goals. In this one, we share work. What were your greatest hits of the year? What's the stuff you're most proud of? Include photos and video of that work. Talk about why it's significant, the struggles, the lessons learned. Like in #17, a topic for each student in a grid for learning portfolios would make a great shareable spot.
Revised Bloom's category: create + metacognitive For notifications of new Ditch That Textbook content and helpful links: Interested in having Matt present at your event or school? Contact him by e-mail! Matt is scheduled to present at the following upcoming events:
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20 activities to "Bloom" with the new Flipgrid camera - Ditch That Textbook

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Video is so easy to create in the classroom now. What used to take expensive equipment and advanced know-how can be created in seconds with devices we already have. Video is a rich medium for learning. Students can practice speaking skills, show their passion through their voice, and make learning visible.

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ShowMe is an open online learning community where anyone can learn and teach any topic. Our iPad app lets you easily create and share video lessons.

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Crash Course is one of the best ways to educate yourself, your classmates, and your family on YouTube!

From courses like Astronomy to US History and Anatomy & Physiology it's got you covered with an awesome variety of AP high school curriculum topics. With various witty hosts at your service, you won't even notice you're getting smarter.

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Crash Course is one of the best ways to educate yourself, your classmates, and your family on YouTube! From courses like Astronomy to US History and Anatomy & Physiology it's got you covered with an awesome variety of AP high school curriculum topics. With various witty hosts at your service, you won't even notice you're getting smarter.

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Storyboard That is a completely web-based platform for creation. Whether you are in the classroom or across the globe, you and your students can create storyboards with an internet connection! There are many resources available for teachers that cover a wide variety of subjects and grade levels. Use them for inspiration, or copy an assignment or storyboard to your account and customize it to fit what you and your students need.

How to Get Started Today

1. Sign Up for a 2-Week Free Trial
Unlimited students and teachers for 2 weeks

2. Add Students into Classes
Easy rostering with Google Classroom, Clever, ClassLink, or special invite links

3. Create an Assignment
Create your own assignment from scratch or copy one of our assignments to save time. Easy digital feedback right on students' work!

4. Use Our Digital Resources
Hundreds of resources are available for teachers in all subjects and grade levels. Copy an assignment or storyboard to your account and customize it to fit what you and your students need.

5. Request Your Quote
Affordable options for all classroom and school needs. Discounted district subscriptions are available.

Remote Learning Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

How do My Students Join?

There are several ways students can join, depending on the resources available through your school.

Watch this quick 1 minute tutorial on how to create your perfect assignment!

What if I Need Help Getting Started?

Don't worry, we offer outstanding customer support and will be with you every step of the way!

1. Attend one of our weekly webinars on Tuesdays at 2:30 EDT.

2. Schedule a 30 minute webinar for your school

3. Schedule a 30 minute personalized demo for your classroom

4. Always email support@storyboardthat.com for further questions and information

Can My Students Use the Free Version?

We do not recommend the free version for school use as it is not FERPA/COPPA compliant. The educational version provides enhanced security and features.
Learn More About Free vs. Paid Version.
What Resources do You Have for Admins?

We have materials available for professional development and district information. If you have any questions, contact us at support@storyboardthat.com.

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Storyboard That is a completely web-based platform for creation. Whether you are in the classroom or across the globe, you and your students can create storyboards with an internet connection! There are many resources available for teachers that cover a wide variety of subjects and grade levels.

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GRACE Gorilla Forest Corridor | Explore.org

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Watch live video of gorillas at the Gorilla Rehabilitation and Conservation Education Center (GRACE) in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Africa. Watch as the gorilla's pass through, graze on vegetation, and make their nest for their overnight slumber

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NASA Image and Video Library, serving up consolidated imagery and videos in one searchable location. Users can download content in multiple sizes and resolutions and see the metadata associated with images, including EXIF/camera data on many images.

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Free Online Video Editor | Interactive Video | WeVideo

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The #1 video editor for schools, businesses, and solopreneurs. Create professional-looking multimedia projects with powerful, easy-to-use tools. Try free today!

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Easily create beautiful interactive video lessons for your students you can integrate right into your LMS. Track students' progress with hassle-free analytics as you flip your classroom!

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Collection of Hybrid and Remote Learning Resources and Activities

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Creativity,
made easy

With over two thousand templates to choose from, you can unleash your creativity in no time. Ranging from education to business to personal use, Buncee Templates gives you a jump start on any creation, but with the freedom to add your personal touch. Choose from our in-house templates, or select a custom template uploaded by your admin on Buncee for Schools and Districts.

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Buncee | Create, Present and Share Engaging Multimedia Lessons

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Buncee is an easy-to-use tool for your school's creation needs. Empower student voice, create engaging class materials, enhance school communications, and more!

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We express ourselves in different ways. On Flip, you can use our simple and fun built-in camera to record your thoughts, add effects and share within your Flip group as video, audio only or text in your web browser or mobile app.

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Flip is a video discussion and sharing app, free from Microsoft.

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Flip (formerly Flipgrid) is a video discussion and video sharing app, free from Microsoft, built for classrooms and beyond. Learn more.

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BrainPOP - Animated Educational Site for Kids - Science, Social Studies, English, Math, Arts & Music, Health, and Technology

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Making Learning Sweeter! Create and share your own games!

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Expeditions & Tour Creator are no longer available - Expeditions Help

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On June 30, 2021, we deactivated the Expeditions and Tour Creator apps. They’ll no longer work on your devices, and tours can’t be downloaded again after they’re gone. You can find many of the tours f

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70 elearning activities, templates and tutorials - Ditch That Textbook

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Ed Tech It's easy to feel anxious, overwhelmed and frustrated if you're asked to create elearning activities and teach remotely because of a school closure. You might be asking ... What are my students going to do? How can they continue learning at a high level? Can I maintain that teacher/student connection through elearning?

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Kahoot! | Learning games | Make learning awesome!

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Kahoot! is a game-based learning platform that brings engagement and fun to 1+ billion players every year at school, at work, and at home.

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Gimkit is a game show for the classroom that requires knowledge, collaboration, and strategy to win. Get started for free!