Student Intro: Fun Activities

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By: Samantha Wilkinson

Did you know that we've designed activities with the intention for students to get practice with AACPS applications? They are designed to be open-ended for creativity and for all levels. 

Once students click on the Student Intro to Digital Tools app, they will have a toolbar where they can select Fun Activities. Students then get to choose a path: creator, explorer, gamer, or influencer.

 


For the creative mindset students, we have activities designed to stretch the imagination and explore their own ideas. Activities in creating their own comics in Wixie, writing a book, creating a piece of original artwork in Adobe, and even creating a meme in WeVideo. Each option has directions and either links out to the app or tells students where to go to get started.

For the curious learner, who wants to explore unknowns and learn more about the world around them, the explorer page offers a lot of options. Some activities include learning about money management in Discovery Education and finding answers to life's mysteries in DE-mystified. Additionally students can learn about young global changemakers who have revolutionized their communities in a podcast series. Once again, this page should serve as a springboard for further student-directed investigations.

For the student who likes to solve problems, think quickly, or be a part of fantastical worlds, the Gamer page is the spot for them. The options on this page include typing club challenges, cryptologic code breaking and more! One of the favorites on this page is the Minecraft monthly challenges, where students are instructed to download Minecraft, and view the library to go on an educational adventure.


Last but certainly not least, the Influencer page is for the student leader with persuasive capabilities. Students can find activities on making a vlog or Twitter page. My personal favorite idea is making a meme or web page in Adobe Express. 

All of these activities can be expanded upon for classroom use and can be accessed and worked on at home as well as at school. Consider giving students a little time to explore this great resource. I think you will see that giving student choice and voice leads to engagement and fun.


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