Jennifer's+differentiating+websites+and+tools

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I really like using the Zoomerang [] site that we used. It is easy to create a readiness survey for any age. I like that you can change the type of questions and allow options for commentary, too. Using the site for assessing readiness for tech tools or for a particular curriculum is easy. The surveys can be modified to assess throughout a unit, too. You can easily test vocabulary or comprehension knowledge, or ask about what a student thinks about a particular concept to assess prior knowledge.

Jennifer, I really liked zoomerang too. It makes surveying more concrete when students can create their own. The accelerated learning website that test multiple intelligences was really fun too. I liked the feedback in the pie chart form. It was very easy to see strengths. Jean Marie

[]. This URL will bring you to a page on student interests. However, it is a full service site that deals with differentiated instruction in all areas. Information that supports differentiated instruction strategies are available on this site. The interest surveys are in a printable format, but could easily be adapted to use on your computer.

This site, [], reflects Howard Gardner’s theory of multiple intelligences. Take the free on-line personal learning style survey. Results are emailed, but you be given a graph after the that displays individual strengths. It is an easy to understand pie chart that uses colors and names each intelligence that Gardner defined. This free portion of the tool is helpful, but there are more things to explore. There are links for CD-ROMs (for purchase) that help accelerate learning based on the learner’s profile which would support ELL students. Older students would also enjoy finding out more about how they learn and it may help them think of creative ways of taking control of their own learning.

Sites added 2/12/11 []. Awesome site for teachers. STEM education research, NBPTS supported lesson plans, ideas for incorporating digital media to allow students to take charge of their own learning, and online professional teacher development are just a few of the many things that this site offers. The site also offers "Activity Packs" (theme-based widgets that contain links to PBS resources and activities). There are lesson plans for all grade levels. This is definately one of my favorite new sites!

====[] I found this after completing this week's work, but it is worth sharing. The website describes itself as "Digital Wish is a non-profit with a unique mission to modernize K-12 classrooms and prepare students for tomorrow's workforce". There are lesson plans for every grade and subject imaginable. There is also a tab that lists available grants for teachers to apply for. This site is a valuable teacher tool. ====