Tech Tip Tuesday: Subject-Specific Websites

This week I am sharing at least one resource for each of the core subject areas and a bonus website that I have used for character and digital citizenship lessons.

English – Several educators I know have recently talked a lot about the website, NoRedInk. It is an online tool for students to help them improve their grammar and writing. A teacher creates an account and sets up classes, similar to Edmodo, Google Classroom, and some of the websites mentioned last week. Teachers track student progress and understanding using five different types of assignments: planning diagnostic, unit diagnostic, practice, new quiz, and measure growth. The following video provides more information the benefits of NoRedInk.

Math – One of my favorite math websites is Desmos, in particular, the Desmos Classroom Activities. All of the activities are free and easily accessed. Again, teachers can create an account and add classes. This allows teachers to track their students’ progress and see how they are answering questions. Please watch the Desmos Welcome video below.​

​Another quick math resource is Would You Rather Math. The website author periodically releases “would you rather” questions that require students to decide which option (of two) they would choose. The twist is that students must use math to make and justify their decisions. The most recent question asks students to compare two credit cards and decide which credit card is the better option. Generally, there is no right or wrong answer, which gives students an opportunity to debate the answers.

Science – PhET Interactive Simulations is a website I recently found. It is a website created by the University of Colorado and offers free interactive simulations for science and math. Teachers can register to use the site, but I was able to run the simulations without an account. The simulations are organized both by subject and grade level. The website also has a Teaching Resources section and Teacher Tips for each simulation. The Teacher Tips are only available with a free account.

History/Government/Geography – Three good resources for history, government, and geography teachers are Library of Congress, The National Archives and Records Administration, and National Geographic (also great for science). The Library of Congress website can be used to find historical documents, photos, videos, maps, art, audio, and other artifacts. The National Archives has an overwhelming collection of material on U.S. history. The site does have resources specifically for educators. National Geographic also has an education section and teaching resources, which includes activities, lessons, and educational games.

Character/Digital Citizenship – One website I have used a lot is Common Sense Media. The lessons over digital citizenship and digital literacy are great conversation starters and help students think about online safety and responsibility. The website also has an area for educators to look for edtech products and see how other teachers rate the suggested websites and apps. The parent section has TV show and movie reviews.

What subject-specific websites or apps do you use and recommend? Please share resources in the comments!