Sunday, September 13, 2015

Quizlet

Quizlet is a FREE, web-based app that provides learning tools for students.  It has virtual flashcards that they can use to engage in 6 different learning activities. These include Flashcards, Study mode, Speller (w/audio), Test (you can reset it to get unique tests each time!), Scatter game and Space Race game.  You can even choose different languages!  I really like the Flashcard mode because it lets students "Star" the ones they want to review again - and when they go back to study, they can focus on the ones they need to review.  The games are great, too, because kids are having so much fun, they don't even realize they're studying!

There's an optional paid version for $24.99/month that allows you to track student progress, add images to your sets, add your voice to the audio and lets you create unlimited classes!

The FREE version lets you create up to 8 classes, add your own flashcards and you can still use sets created by others.  It also links to Google Classroom!  The best part of all is how user-friendly it is!  

Here's how to start using Quizlet:
Go to www.quizlet.com.
Click on Sign Up - you can also sign up with Google.
Fill in the information requested (birthday, user name, email, password, and if you're a teacher).  Then agree to their terms and conditions and then Sign Up.

To set up your class, select "+ Create A Class" from the left side of your screen.  
Name your class, and provide a description (optional).
Add your school name.

Add a Pre-Made Study Set:
Use the search feature and enter your topic.
Scroll through the study sets that have already been created until you find one that meets your needs and click on it.
Under tools on the top right, select "Add to Folder".  This will prompt you to create and name a  folder.  I recommend creating folders according to topics you cover.  For example, I have a folder for exponents, and one for systems of equations, etc.  This makes it easier for students to find what they need.
Add the set you selected to this folder.

Creating your own Study Set:
From your class page, select "Add A Set"
The last choice is "Create a New Set"
You can choose to create a new set by hand, OR you can import!  You can copy/paste from Word, Excel, Google Docs, etc.  How fast and convenient!
Last, click on Create and you're done!

Inviting your students is easy!  
Students go to www.quizlet.com.  It is best if they create their own free account so they can save their progress.  They can use the search function for your Quizlet name.  Or from your class page, you can click on "Add Members" at the top right.  Here you can choose to enter student emails, or send a bulk email or get a join link (that can be made into a QR code or embedded into a blog!), or link to Google Classroom.

How will Quizlet benefit my students?
Quizlet helps students study exactly what they need to know for your class.  They can do it in a way that's fun and engaging.  I use it in my classroom to help students review material that I already expect them to know, such as integer operations and fraction operations - and even basic facts.  Students who struggle at this level are often too embarrassed to admit they need this kind of help - but by providing the practice for them on Quizlet, they can get the review they need, at their own pace, and in the privacy of their own home.  I can use Quizlet with new material by projecting it onto my Smart Board.  I can make a station out of the Space Race or Scatter games during rotation lessons.  There are so many ways to use Quizlet successfully to help your students master the material for your class!

You can check out my Quizlet by joining my class: The hAPPy Math Teacher

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