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Tips for Keeping Virtual Students Engaged

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Engaging elementary students during online instruction is challenging. Here are some ideas to keep students actively participating as well as assessing their level of understanding.

TIP # 1 THUMBS-UP THUMBS-DOWN Signs

Thumbs-Up sign. I LOVE these large thumbs up cards. They are MUCH easier for me to see than the thumbs on their hand.

I’ll ask a question to the class, and then ask them, “If you agree, thumbs-up. If you disagree, thumbs down.”

You can download this file here.

Thumbs Up Sign for Virtual Meets

TIP # 2 DRY ERASE BOARDS

Dry Erase Boards
Dollar Tree Dry Erase Boards

Personal size Dry Erase Boards are my go to tool when I want to get assess what my students know or understand. Since I can’t peek over their shoulders when I am teaching virtually, this is the next best thing. This one is from Dollar Tree. For just $1.00 it also comes with a marker. Such a deal!

I’ll pose a question to the class. Then I give them time to jot down their answer onto the board. Then, in a game show like fashion, I’ll do a countdown. “5, 4, 3, 2, 1, SHOW ME!” Then the children hold up their boards to the camera on their device. In an instant, I can see which students understand, and which ones need me to review the concept again. I’ll ask students to show answers to math problems, topic review , and exit questions. Each time I get to informally assess where the students are. I also notice which ones weren’t paying attention.

TIP # 3 CLASSROOMSCREEN TIMER

Classroomscreen.com Timer

Getting the class back after a break can be a nightmare when they are learning at home. Now that I post a digital timer, my students know how much time they have left before class will resume.

Classroomscreen.com is a free website app once you register. It site offers many helpful tools for virtual teachers. Today, I am focusing in on the timer. You can change the backgrounds, choose the audible signal to ring, and post messages.

When we go on a break, I set the timer, and present the Classroomscreen.com page in my meet. The students and I love being able to glance at our screens and know how much time we have left. If I forget to post it, one of my youngsters will let me know. This simple tip has reduced the amount of time waiting for everyone to show up again.

Do you have some tips for our readers? I’d love to hear them in the comment section below.

I’ve been creating numerous digital resources which are available at my store. Here are a few: Click on the image to see preview slides.

January Morning Work 3rd Grade
Morning Work & Spiral Review for 3rd Grade JANUARY
Context Clues Google Slides
Donavan’s Word Jar Book Companion
Digital Problem Solving Addition and Subtraction
Fact or Opinion Google Slides
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  • Alison Monk

    When I started teaching, I quickly realized that student teaching didn't prepare me for the real challenges of being alone in a classroom full of young children. The learning curve was steep and time was limited. That is why I created the Literacy Garden. My hope is this will be a place for inspiration, mentoring, and connecting.

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    Transform your lessons with resources that align with your curriculum and inspire a love of learning. Discover the perfect addition to your classroom with Literacy Garden's educational products. Our engaging and interactive resources are designed to captivate students' imaginations while meeting rigorous educational standards. Watch your students thrive academically and creatively with the Literacy Garden.

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