Creating multimodal texts using digital media is a core element of the Australian Curriculum. Not just in English either. In Maths, History and Science, students will need to use digital media to publish their work and explain their thinking. Below you will find links to resources for each app explored in our first ever Techie Brekkie. We’ll explore lesson ideas during the workshops and post them to this blog.
- These apps will get the students creating and expressing their creativity rather than just consuming
- The iPads and apps are intuitive so less time will be spent on learning how to use technology
- Model then allow students to explore the technology
- Appoint technology experts from within your class – you don’t need to be an expert!
- Digital multimodal texts should include two or more modes of communication
- Modes of communication could include text, images, audio and/or video
Book Creator $5.49
Simple to use ebook creation tool. Text, images, audio and video can be published. This app introduces the art of page composition and arrangement. Use in conjunction with a digital art app such as Drawing Pad to create digital images on the iPad or take photos of drawings.
Suitable for year 2-7.
iPad app guide to Book Creator
Credit: Dr Jenny Lane
‘How to’ guide for Book Creator
Creative Book Builder $4.49
More complex ebook creator. Excellent for teaching text features such as chapters, titles, paragraphs etc. Text, images, audio and video can be published.
Suitable for year 3-7.
‘How to’ guide for Creative Book Builder
Credit: Penelope Doyle
Story Patch $2.99
A simple story creation tool. This app allows students to choose a story path or create their own. An image library and character creation tool are included. Requires basic reading level.
Suitable for PP-3.
Credit: iPad Curriculum blog
My Story – Book Maker for Kids $1.99
This is another simple story creation tool. This app allows students to draw on the screen, insert photographs, record their voice and type text. This app has an easy to use interface, using symbols rather than text to navigate the app. It will be really useful in ECE, ESL and with SAER students.
Suitable for K-7.
Features of My Story.
Flowboard – free
A simple and versatile content creation app with templates. Students could use this app to present an information report, guide, photo album, story or simply show what they know about a topic. Text, images, audio and video can be published. Requires a sign up. I recommend creating a free Gmail account for your class for technology related sign ups.
Suitable for year 2-7.
Flowboard example created by Miss D
Explain Everything $2.99
The most versatile screencasting app around. Screencasting is the capture of what is on your screen in combination with narration. Explain Everything is suitable for all learning areas. Students can insert text, images, audio and video. Multiple slides can be produced then the finished product is turned into a video. The ability to record your voice whilst drawing on the screen is particularly powerful. The videos could be used for assessment purposes and provide a great insight into a child’s rationale and thinking process.
A simpler version of this app is called ShowMe.
Explain Everything suitable for Year 1-7.
Show Me suitable for K-7.
Room 6 using Explain Everything
Pic Collage – free
This is primarily a photography app with the option to add text. This app could be used to create poetry or record learning.
Suitable for K-7