Interactive Science for the Google Classroom
Although science is one of the easiest subjects in which to integrate hands-on learning, it’s also one of the most difficult if a teacher doesn’t have access to enough resources. Lack of funding, lack of lab space, and lack of equipment are all significant issues when it comes to creating a science class where students are truly vested in the lesson. However, creating interactive lessons through Google Classroom can help teachers overcome some of these obstacles while increasing student interest and engagement.
Creating interactive Google diagrams is one way teachers can support student interaction with lessons. Using Google Slides, the teacher can link parts of a diagram with other slides to create a “pop up” feature for students. In this elementary example, the polygon tool was used to create a freeform shape on each layer of skin from the human body. When students click on the layer in the presentation, a pop-up appears.
Interactive diagrams can be simple or complex, depending on the teacher’s preferences and needs as well as the grade level of students. Interactive presentations can also be created using Google Draw. There are numerous tutorials available on the web and on YouTube.
Science Buddies provides a multitude of resources for teachers, parents, and students including science fair project ideas, lesson plans aligned to national standards, and printable worksheets. The teacher resource section provides hands-on STEM resources as well as instructions on how to integrate Science Buddies with Google Classroom.
Tynker is an online coding program for kids ages 7 and above. Students can use Tynker to play coding games and Minecraft. Tynker activities encourage students to become thinkers and problem solvers. Teachers can utilize Tynker to access a comprehensive coding curriculum, STEM courses and automatic assessments which can be integrated with Google Classroom.
TED-Ed is a resource for pre-made and customizable lessons and assessments. It also includes animations, video-based lessons, interactive questions and discussion topics. TED-Ed resources can be integrated into Google Classroom through the Share to Classroom extension for Chrome.
Ptable is an interactive periodic table of elements. Students can explore element properties, orbits, isotopes and compounds through the dynamic interface of Ptable. It can also be integrated into Google Classroom via the Share to Classroom extension for Chrome, or teachers can add it as a resource in their Classrooms by sharing the link as a Material. The periodic table can be printed, and lesson plans are included on the website.
With cK-12 teachers can create digital classrooms, customized textbooks, quizzes, and STEM lessons for students. With the self-paced learning modules, students can choose their mode of learning (text, videos, quizzes, etc.). The PLIX feature allows students to play games and explore concepts as well as create study guides and practice science concepts. It also includes simulations for physics and chemistry. cK-12 is fully integrated with Google Classroom and can be downloaded at the iTunes store or Google Play store.
