EdTech@NSCDS
All the Tech & Innovation News You Can Use • Issue #25
In this issue, learn how to multitask on your iPad and find out more about Newsela, a service that provides leveled non-fiction content geared towards students in grades 2-12. Global Maker Day is also featured. This event is coming up on October 29th and provides opportunities for students and educators to share, learn, and play around the World! Finally, check out a trio of timely articles and resources.
Thanks for reading!
PRODUCTIVITY TIPS
How to Multitask on Your iPad
Use the Dock to work with more apps simultaneously
Open an app with Slide Over
Use two apps at the same time with Split View
Use apps while you watch a video with Picture in Picture
Use gestures with iPadOS
Drag and drop between apps
If not, check out this one-pager from Apple and the video below!
APP RECOMMENDATION
Newsela
Newsela is a web-based service that provides non-fiction content, including current events articles, to students in grades 2-12. There is also an iOS app available that you can request to be installed on your students' iPads.
Each article is available in 5 different reading levels and there is also some content available in Spanish. Text sets are available to support various content areas and commonly taught novels as well. With Newsela, you can assign specific articles at specific reading levels to your students as well as writing assignments and quizzes. 4th and 5th graders are currently piloting Newsela, and our 3-month trial subscription is open to all teachers at North Shore. Just sign up for an account with your North Shore email address, and you should have access to all features. Support materials are available here.
The video below will give you an idea of how it works. This short overview is a bit dated, but you will get the drift!
GLOBAL CONNECTIONS
Global Maker Day is October 29
Here's a collaborative opportunity that might foster some ideas for the Live + Serve Lab! Check out the Global Maker Day site for more information and to register.
LEARN
Connect virtually and watch makers discuss live (YouTube Live) about different projects, learning spaces, creations, coding, 3D designs, art lessons, etc. There will be a session each half hour and they each will have a connected challenge. When you arrive on the landing page, you can view the schedule, challenges and watch the live presentations.
SHARE
We will spotlight those that have amazing things to share. Don't forget to post your pictures and videos of student creations using #GlobalMakerDay on Twitter during and after the event!
PLAY
One part of the event is participating in challenges with the opportunity for your class to solve problems, be creative and PLAY. Challenges will be posted on the landing page and given in the sessions during the day of the event.
PROFESSIONAL INSPIRATION
Us Vs Hate
Student Agency: What Do Students Want to Create to Demonstrate Their Learning?
Halloween Central
REMINDERS
Apple Teacher Information
- Apple Teacher is a self-directed, professional learning program that focuses on the use of iPads and Mac computers. Apple tools such as Garageband, Pages, Keynote, etc. are featured. Teachers at North Shore should complete the 8 modules for either the Mac or iPad track.
- Congratulations to our current Apple Teachers: Alejandra M., Ann G., Anne Marie D., Austin G., Beatrice M., Brian P., Caitlin M, Caroline M., Claire D.., Dana S., David K., Donna F., Drea G., Ellen R., Irene M., Julia M., Kathy M., Laura C., Leanne M. , Lee B., Sharon L., Stephanie W., Susan S., Christina B., Darcy T., Zoe F., Jordan H., David G., Tim M., Ceil F., Rebecca R., Kathy I., and Amy S. ! If Lucy missed anyone, let her know!
- Send Lucy a copy of your Apple Teacher report when you've completed either the iPad track or Mac track. All North Shore teachers are required to finish one track by now. The other track will need to be completed by June 2019.
General Information
- Thanks to tech MS/US integrator Kenyatta Forbes, we have a new set of resources to support the use of core apps at North Shore. Kenyatta has thoughtfully curated examples and tutorials for apps installed on student and faculty iPads. Take a look!
- If you need a specific app installed on your iPad or on your students' iPads, please send an email with your request to tech@nscds.org. Please also include Lucy and your division's academic tech integrator on this email.
- Do you need support with using our laser cutter? Fill out this form and the IT/ET departments will work with you.
- Breakout Edu is a platform for educational escape type games that are perfect for this time of year! We have two Breakout Edu kits plus access to hundreds of games. Some games are digital and do not require the kits. Browse or search for games here. If you need help getting started with Breakout Edu, including teacher access to the platform, send Lucy an email at lgray@nscds.org.