tv – iLearn Technology

Check123: Video Encyclopedia

May 8, 2017Kelly Tenkely3 Comments55753 views

What it is: Check 123 is a new video encyclopedia site for kids. All videos are validated and ranked by Check123 professionals, are 1-3 minutes in length, and a curated on just about any subject you can think of. Broad topics covered on Check123 include: history, sports, politics, food, performing arts, economics, earth, nature, tech, philosophy, music, cars, pets, human body, arts, geography, religion, psychology, TV, gaming, science, literature, fashion, media, and space.

How to integrate Check 123 into your classroom: Check123 is a great place for students to begin their research. These videos are between 1 and 3 minutes each, keeping students engaged in a topic and giving them bite-size information. I like that the videos are so well curated, it keeps search results on topic rather than the endless dig for quality content that can happen in a YouTube search. Check123 videos are also wonderful as provocations for further inquiry. The short format gives students just enough information to whet their appetites and encourage additional questioning. Check123 is a great one to keep bookmarked on classroom and library computers for quick reference.

Video is the preferred learning method of 90% of our students at Anastasis, when they do a search, they usually begin on a video site. With Check123, they are sure to get some quality results back to kick start their learning and research.

Tips: Check123 is free for teachers!

ipopetz.tv

July 17, 2008Kelly Tenkely1 Comment3983 views

What it is: ipopetz.tv is a fun web 2.0 site that your students will love to use. Students can create their own 3-D mini cartoon show by selecting a puppet, creating and recording their show (with their own voice) and then sharing their show. The puppets that students have to choose from are a lot of fun. The shows are easy to create, students make their 3-D puppet move by using their mouse and keyboard and record their voice using the microphone. The puppets lip sync to the words your students say!

How to integrate ipopetz.tv into the classroom: The ipopetz.tv puppets would be the perfect way for students to display knowledge. They can use their ipopetz character to give a book report. Instead of standing up in front of the class and reading off of their book report, students can “advertise” a book using an ipopetz puppet. Because they can record their own voice and manipulate their puppet, they display their knowledge in a new and fun way as well as become the directors for their own 3-D cartoon. So much fun! Have students create shows about any subject. For example, students could create a show about a current science topic. Instead of studying from a text book before a test, students can watch eachother’s informational cartoon shows. If your students are like mine, they can’t recall facts from a textbook at the drop of the hat but they can all quote Kung Foo Panda. Let them create and learn in a way that they love. I garuntee this will be a huge hit with your students! It is easy enough for as young as first grade but will hold the attention of students through middle school (maybe even through adults…I am throuroughly entertained!) Create your own cartoon to teach a subject for a change of pace, it will give you a break and the students will enjoy something new. You can create your show, save it, and use a projector to teach the whole class. If you are lucky enough to have a projector in your classroom you could even start out each day with a message or brain teaser for your students.

Tips: ipopetz.tv does require a download plugin for Quick Time. It is a quick and small download. Make sure to download the plugin for every computer that you will be using ipopetz.tv on. Also be aware that this site has advertisements, be sure to use this opportunity to teach your students about online ads and set up the rule that they not click on them before you start a project.

Leave a comment and share how you are using ipopetz.tv in your classroom.