This was a first grade 2D shape lesson using the apps Pattern Shapes and Skitch. The idea originally came straight from one of my favorite people to follow on Twitter, Meghan Zigmond. See Meghan's original blog post about this lesson here. Students created a picture of their own choice using the Pattern Shapes app and then labeled the names/number of the shapes using the Skitch app. Students then saved their product to the camera roll or did a screen shot. Then they scanned a QR code that directed them to this Padlet (All I did was press the share/export button on the right hand-side - rectangle icon with an arrow pointing to the right). After you press the share/export button, a QR code will show up. If you have your projector on, students can go up to the board and simply scan the QR code. You don't have to print it or anything! It was here that they were able to post their digital products. As you can see, this was a FABULOUS formative assessment. You can easily see which students mastered identifying 2D shapes and which students needed extra practice or small group instruction. They loved being able to see each others' work instantly. I also loved that there was creativity built into this activity. Students were able to make a lot of their own choices and it was easy to see who was thinking way outside of the box.
The reason I decided to have students post their products to Padlet is because (at the time) they hadn't quite set up their Google Drive folders yet. They didn't know how to log in to Google Drive (without help). And with their LONG usernames/passwords, it would have wasted a lot of class time (Keep in mind: I was NOT a digital teacher last year - we only used iPads when we could check them out). Padlet was a great way to teach my students how to save their work to a designated place where other students can see it. After using Padlet, it was easier for my students to begin using Google Drive.
Padlet can be used for so many different things. I've used it as a reflection tool for teachers to provide me with feedback/ideas after I have given a presentation. I have also heard of teachers using Padlet during Reading/Writing Workshop. Instead of interrupting reading/writing groups, students post a question to the padlet. The teacher has her iPad at the table and is able to see the question and respond without having to stop her small group. It can also be used as a brainstorming tool. There are so many possibilities! In fact, why don't you share your Padlet ideas below in the comments? ;)
-Ashley
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