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Educational Websites Project
A SELECTIVE AND ANNOTATED
LIST OF
EDUCATIONAL WEBSITES FOR STUDENTS
GRADES K-12

Carlson Home Instructional
Program and Hospital School
Los Angeles Unified School
District
Compiled
and Annotated by
Lydia A. Saxton
January
2003
(Updated
May 2009 by Kate Coombs)
Introductory
Notes
The World Wide Web is boundless
and provides an ever-expanding resource for educational opportunities. While
the present list is by no means exhaustive, it includes what
I believe to be some core or essential educational sites
for students, with particular emphasis on Language Arts and
Mathematics. The popularity of these sites is evidenced
by the frequency or number of "hits" they experience
on the internet, as well as by positive reviews by students,
teachers, and educational journalists.
Many of the sites are interactive. That
means, using a keyboard and/or a mouse, students and teachers
can actually play games, construct models, participate in
tutorials, etc. directly at the site. Other sites serve
as resource centers, provide information, or are databases
with numerous links to additional sites.
I hope you will find this
list a useful resource. I would like to thank Larry
Bye, Instructional Coordinator for the District B Math Coach
Program, and the District B Math Coaches themselves for their
generous assistance.
Some things you
should know:
I have compiled the list
according to the following criteria:
-
Access to the sites must be free (no
dues or membership fees required), and the materials
found within a site must be in the public domain (except
where indicated). [EDITOR'S NOTE: SOME OF THESE SITES
NOW CHARGE A LOW ANNUAL FEE, BUT I HAVE LEFT THEM IN
FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE IF THEY LOOKED REALLY GOOD.]
-
Each site must be easy to access and
easy to navigate.
-
Many sites are founded on a not-for-profit
model and therefore do not depend upon the marketing
of products or services. However, some important sites
do have commercial sponsors. In these instances,
I have made every effort to choose only those sites that
do not subject the viewer to gratuitous or excessive "pop-up," "link," or
banner advertisements.
-
To the extent possible, sites have
been reviewed and are in accord with the precepts of
ICRA, the Internet Content Rating Association, which
protects children from harmful materials on the Internet. Other
sites have been reviewed by the SafeSurf™ Internet
Rating Standard. There is one important caveat here,
however. Since the content of many sites and their
links changes from day to day, no one can guarantee the
quality of materials being viewed. Therefore,
it is extremely important for teachers and/or parents
to supervise students while using the sites on this list.
- While it would be difficult, if not
impossible, to ensure that the educational content of all
sites conforms to California State Education Standards,
I believe that the majority of these sites are, at the
very least, closely aligned to those standards (except
where specifically noted).
The sites
are divided into several categories, as follows:
-
Sites with Interactive Lessons
and 'Homework Helps' for Mathematics
-
Sites with Interactive Lessons
and 'Homework Helps' for Language Arts
-
Resources and Links (Sites
which serve as large educational resource databases (such
as our own LAUSDnet), with links to particular areas
of interest for students and teachers.
-
Miscellaneous (Sites
which don't necessary reflect categories above, but which
are interesting and noteworthy nonetheless.
Important Note:
For
your convenience, each website address is displayed in color as
a link. Click on a link to be taken to the website
to which it refers.
A.
SITES
WITH INTERACTIVE LESSONS AND HOMEWORK HELPS FOR MATHEMATICS
-
http://matti.usu.edu/nlvm/nav/index.html
This is by far one of my favorite
math sites because I believe so strongly in the value
of manipulatives for conceptual learning in mathematics.
The site, called The National Library of
Virtual Manipulatives for Interactive Mathematics,
was created and is maintained by the University of
Utah. This three-year National Science Foundation-supported
project is a library of uniquely interactive, web-based
virtual manipulatives or concept tutorials for mathematics
instruction with a K-8 emphasis. Here students can
actually work with manipulatives right on their computer
screens! Manips include geoboards, pattern and attribute
blocks, tangrams, base-10 blocks, number lines, fraction
models, area models, spinners, charts and graphs, abacus,
a graphing tool (for exploring functions), and many
others, all divided by grade and math concept. Students
will love interacting with the manips to explore concepts
and solve problems. Note system requirements
(listed on the Site Map). Java applets are required
to run most of the manipulative programs. Mathematics,
grades K-12 but with an emphasis on K-8.
-
http://www.mathcats.com/
This wonderful site, developed
by a teacher, encourages students to engage in a variety
of creative, open-ended math explorations, covering a
wide range of topics. Well-designed with colorful graphics.
Although material covers all grade levels, the emphasis
here is on elementary and middle school math. Mathematics;
grades K-8.
-
http://www.visualfractions.com/index.htm
This site is simple. It
teaches (interactively) the basic concepts of fractions
using either a pie chart or a line graph. It displays
a fraction visually, and you fill in the numerator and
denominator. Learn about mixed numbers, improper fractions,
etc. Even play a fraction game called "Find Grampy!" Mathematics;
grades 3-6.
http://math.rice.edu/~lanius/Lessons/index.html#Description
A wonderful, interactive
collection of math games, lessons and activities for
all grades, from a professor of mathematics at Rice University.
Really fun stuff covering a wide range of mathematical
topics from basic counting to Calculus! Mathematics;
grades K-12.
-
http://matti.usu.edu/nlvm/nav/category_g_1_t_1.html
This site is the essence of interactiveness!
It's a site with "virtual math manipulatives".
You can actually "play" with base-10 blocks,
number lines, pie charts, Venn diagrams, etc. to solve
mathematics problems. Interesting but takes a while to
learn to manipulate. There are instructions and activities.
It also provides links to the exact NCTM (National Council
of Teachers of Mathematics) national math standards you
are using. Listed for grades pre-K through 12 but I think
younger students would have some difficulty maneuvering
around the site. Mathematics; grades 3-12.
-
http://www.mathgoodies.com
A good interactive site for middle
school math lessons and homework helps. Topics include
pre-Algebra, Algebra, Geometry, Integers, etc. Mathematics;
grades 5-9.
-
http://www.coolmath.com/
Entertaining and instructional interactive math site for students ages 13 and
up; includes lessons on middle school math topics, e.g., geometry and algebra;
also games, math puzzles, etc. Mathematics; grades 7-10.
-
http://www.coolmath4kids.com/
Fun interactive math site for students ages 3-12; includes lessons on basic arithmetic,
geometry, fractions, etc; also games, puzzles, etc. Mathematics; grades pre-K-6.
-
http://www.aplusmath.com/
A useful interactive site that helps students improve their basic math skills
with games, flash cards, puzzles, and worksheets. Mathematics; grades K-6.
-
http://www.mathforum.org/dr.math/
This is the well-known "Ask Dr. Math" site. It's a great place to ask
and find answers about virtually any math subject, e.g. geometry, algebra, trigonometry,
calculus, basic math, etc. Choose from Elementary, Middle School, or High School
Math. Mathematics; grades K-12.
-
http://www.exploremath.com/activities/index.cfm
This excellent site employs advanced, interactive graphics to help students devise
real- time (animated) correlations, plot equations, etc. Covers many of the
major concepts from elementary Algebra through pre-Calculus. Fascinating. Requires
free Shockwave plug in. Mathematics; grades 7-12.
-
http://www.purplemath.com
Good site for lessons on Algebra concepts from a website called "PurpleMath;" practical
tips, hints, and examples; links to Algebra lessons on other sites (if you can't
find it at PurpleMath, they'll direct you to other places on the internet that
will address your question or topic). Mathematics; grades 7-12.
-
http://www.math.com/
This wonderful site for students, called "The World of Math Online," is
quite extensive, covering basic math through calculus and beyond. Click on Homework
Help, Practice, Ask an Expert, Calculators and Tools, Games, etc. Includes study
tips, test preps, math games, and more. Useful for all grades but a parent or
teacher will have to help navigate for the K-2 crowd. Mathematics; grades K-12.
-
http://www.aaamath.com/
This site, referred to as "AAA Math," contains "hundreds of pages
of basic math skills with interactive practice on every page." If you want
to have fun learning math, then try this interesting site. Mathematics; grades
K-8.
-
http://www.thinkquest.org/library/cat_show.html?cat_id=9&cid=1
"The ThinkQuest Internet Challenge library is the culmination of six years
of the largest online educational web development program for kids around the
world." You have to explore this huge site to really get a feel
for what it's all about. Suffice it to say that it contains numerous math
resources, researched and designed by students and teachers from around the world. Check
out a section called "Math for Morons Like Us." Don't be insulted
by the title…it's really cool! Mathematics; grades 5-12.
-
http://standards.nctm.org/document/eexamples/index.htm
This is part of a much larger site which is probably the best overall that
you can find on the Internet for math. It is a section of a site
sponsored by the NCTM (National Council for the Teaching of Mathematics).
They are the governing organization from which our national mathematics
standards emanate. Their document, Principles and Standards for School
Mathematics, delineates those standards and form the basis for our California
state standards.
There are many areas of
this vast site. The particular ones I've referenced here
are an excellent place to begin. This site contains examples
of the math standards and applications for all grade
levels for virtually every aspect of mathematics--from
kindergarten 'patterning' through high school calculus
and trigonometry. Students can see an example of a math
standard, manipulate the model, and are even given 'tasks'
to do to alter the model. (It will make sense when you
see it.) See the next entry, for another wonderful area
of the NCTM main site. Mathematics; grades K-12.
-
http://www.storyplace.org/preschool/preschool.asp?themeID=9
This site presents on-line stories, activities, and book lists regarding basic
geometric shapes. Cute! Mathematics; grades pre-K-2.
- http://www.arcytech.org/java/patterns/patterns_j.shtml
This is a one-page site devoted to making patterns and exploring fractions with
pattern blocks. You drag basic pattern block shapes (in their correct colors)
to a grid to make patterns and equivalent fractions. Fun and interesting.
Mathematics; grades 3 and up.
-
http://www.arcytech.org/java/b10blocks/b10blocks.html
This site is similar to entry #20 above. This time however, you are working with
place value blocks (100's; 10's or rods; 1's or cubes) to create 3-digit whole
numbers or to work with decimals values (i.e. tenths, hundredths, etc.) Mathematics;
grades 3-6.
-
http://arcytech.org/java/integers/integers.html
This site is similar to those in entries #20 and #21 above. In this activity,
simple and complex fractions are explored using "integer bars" (similar
to Cuisenaire rods). Mathematics; grades 3-8.
-
http://arcytech.org/java/fractions/fractions.html
Similar to sites in entries #20-22 above, this is another page devoted to creating
and exploring fractions. Mathematics; grades 3-8.
-
http://www.tttpress.com/activities.html
This site is maintained by Teacher to Teacher Press, a publishing company which
publishes mathematics materials and learning activities which, in their words, "convert
mathematical tears and fears into success and confidence. . .both in conceptual
understanding of mathematics AND computational fluency and accuracy." The
site contains a number of free sample activities from their publications and
workshops. They take the form of lesson plans and include directions, journal
prompts, homework, assessment ideas, extensions, and blackline transparency/activity
masters. Some of the topics include: MENU MATH (a wonderful way to introduce
algebraic principles using a "menu" of hamburgers, cheeseburgers,
French fries, and cokes), geometry puzzles, tangram fractions, etc. Mathematics;
grades 5-9.
-
http://www.factmonster.com/homework/hwmath.html
This site offers explanations of basic math concepts in a wide range of topics
such as number, measurement, money, tables, etc. It's written in, what I like
to refer to as, 'kidspeak.' Say you don't understand what a prime number is;
you'd come here. Want to brush up on your rounding and estimating skills? This
is the place. There are also numerous interactive animated games to reinforce
math concepts. Mathematics; grades 6-12.
-
http://highschoolhub.org/hub/math.cfm
See entry C-7 for an explanation of the main High School Hub site. The part of
the site referenced here is devoted to mathematics. Click on any high school
math subject, e.g. algebra, geometry, trigonometry, or calculus for links to
tutorials, activities, quizzes and tests, etc. This is a great place to start
for questions related to high school math. Mathematics, grades 9-12.
-
http://www.mathacademy.com/pr/prime/index.asp
An encyclopedia of math terms; Mathematics; grades 4-12.
-
http://www.amathsdictionaryforkids.com/
This is an wonderful animated, interactive and colorful dictionary for students
explaining over 400 mathematical terms in simple language. Listings are alphabetical
and easily accessible. Examples with activities for practice are also included.
You have to see this one! Mathematics, grades K-5.
-
http://www.harcourtschool.com/glossary/math2/index_temp.html
This is a wonderful multimedia math glossary put out by the Harcourt Brace people.
(Many of our LAUSD local districts have chosen the Harcourt Brace series as
their official math textbook for elementary grades; but you don't have to be
using that series to make use of this site.) Simply click on a grade level
(K-6), find the math term you need and click on it. You will be shown a definition
with animated examples. Useful and easy to navigate. Mathematics, grades K-6.
-
http://www.harcourtschool.com/menus/harcourt_math.html
This is the official, award-winning website of the Harcourt Math textbook adopted
by LAUSD and used by many of our local districts for elementary grades. In
their own words, " Experience online activities and math models, teacher
and parent resources, the Harcourt Multimedia Math Glossary, and other features
correlated to Harcourt Math." Be aware however, that there is, from time
to time, some difficulty in navigating the site. (I have found this to be true
of many of the so-called "student help" sites maintained by educational
textbook publishers.) Mathematics, grades K-6.
-
http://www.onlineintervention.com/
This is the official website for the Scott Foresman California Math textbook
series adopted by LAUSD and used by elementary schools in many of our local districts. This
site is interactive and can be used by both students and teachers. Click
on the word "Math" (bold yellow letters in a blue field). Scroll
down until you see a red banner marked "Homework Help." Click
in the "enter" field below it and you will be taken to a page where
you can choose your grade level (grades 1 - 7 plus Algebra are currently available).
From there you can choose "Worksheets," "Learning Tools" etc.
The lessons given correspond to the chapters in the textbook. You can even
sign on and enter via the "Student" or "Teacher" portal for
interactive quizzes. games, video snippets, and resources. Be aware however,
that there is, from time to time, some difficulty in navigating the site. (I
have found this to be true of many of the so-called "student help" sites
maintained by educational textbook publishers.) Nevertheless, this is a very
useful and fun site for those students using the Scott Foresman California
Math series. Mathematics, grades K-6 and Algebra.
-
http://www.classzone.com/start/math_cs1.cfm
Class Zone is a math student help site run by the McDougal Littell Publishing
Company. LAUSD uses their middle school math series Mathematics: Concepts and
Skills Books 1 and 2. Here you can find examples, worksheets, and other help
for any chapter of the books you may be using. Be aware however, that there
is, from time to time, some difficulty with navigating the site. (I found this
to be true for many of the so-called "student help sites" maintained
by educational textbook publishers). Mathematics, grades 7-9.
-
http://www.puzzlemaker.com/
An entertaining site where students can devise their own math puzzles and challenges.
Create language arts puzzles as well. Language Arts and Math; grades 3-12.
-
http://www.mathpower.com/funstuff.htm
An entertaining site with many math puzzles and games for middle school students,
also includes some videos on various math topics. In addition, contains tutorials
on pre-Algebra and Algebra invented by students. Mathematics, grades 8-12.
-
http://auntymath.com
"This kid-friendly site from the DuPage Children's Museum consists of math
problems written as stories about 'Aunt Mathilda.' Students can post solutions
and receive a reply from Aunty Math about their solution strategy. Based on the
NCTM's (see entry #18) Principles and Standards for School Mathematics, the site
has modifications and information about the math involved in each problem for
parents and teachers." quoted from the magazine NEA Today, January 2003.
It's a fun place to work on problem-solving skills. Mathematics; grades K-5.
-
http://www.quickmath.com/
QuickMath is an automated service for answering common math problems over the
Internet. Think of it as an online calculator that solves equations and does
all sorts of algebra and calculus problems - instantly and automatically. As
of this writing, the site is still free (donations are requested but not required).
Mathematics; grades 7-12.
-
http://www.free-ed.net
This on-line, self-directed, self-paced course in pre-algebra. The course is
made up of 14 lessons. The creators say, "If you study online about six
hours per week, you should be able to complete the entire course in about 4
weeks." While the graphics are not animated, they are clear and well-devised;
useful for review. Mathematics; grades 5-12.
-
http://www.mathleague.com/help/algebra/algebra.htm
This is a short and simple, single-page site that provides a good introduction
to algebra and algebraic terms. Scroll down to find terms, which are explained,
with examples given. Good for review. Mathematics; grades 6-12.
-
http://www.sosmath.com/index.html
A popular destination for math students, this site is a good resource for math
review material from Algebra to Differential Equations. Good homework helps
and test preparation. Mathematics, grades 7-12.
-
http://www.figurethis.org/
Called the "Mathematics Challenges for Families" site, these are fascinating,
real-world math problems that middle-school students can do at home with their
families. Each challenge features a description of the important math involved,
how the math applies to the real world, hints to get started, complete solutions,
along with additional related problems, fun math facts and resources for further
exploration. Colorfully animated cartoon characters guide you through the challenges.
The math covers algebra, geometry, measurement, number, statistics and probability.
This site is a project of the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics with
support from the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Education.
Available in English and Spanish. Try it! Mathematics, grades 6-9.
B.
SITES
WITH INTERACTIVE LESSONS AND HOMEWORK HELPS FOR LANGUAGE
ARTS
EARLY LITERACY
http://www.literacycenter.net/play_learn/index.htm
This is a fun site for young children with games and activities to teach
and reinforce basic literacy skills including letter and numeral writing,
alphabet study, word recognition, color and shape explorations, etc.
The following quote comes directly from the site: "The Literacy
Center aims to provide safe learning activities for parents and teachers
to share with young children. It follows a modified Montessori approach
to teaching reading. As a pre and early reading curriculum, it assumes
that each online lesson will be supported by appropriate offline instruction,
either at home or in school." Language Arts; grades K-2.
-
http://www.sesameworkshop.org/sesamestreet
This site is produced by the famed Children's Television Workshop. Using
the Sesame Street characters, your youngest students can play engaging
learning activities that will foster literacy. Skills include letter
recognition, decoding, aural acuity, etc. Follow 'Ernie's' prompts and
click on Games, Stories, Music, Art, Elmo's World, etc. Language Arts;
grades pre-K-2.
-
http://pbskids.org/lions/
Designed to foster literacy skills, this wonderful
and entertaining site is based on the award-winning
PBS television series, "Between the
Lions." Here you will find stories, games, songs, printables,
and especially phonics-related activities which connect to each televised
episode. Illustrated word glossaries, curriculum guides, and parent
resources
are also available. Designed for Pre-K through 1st grade but also appropriate
for 2nd, 3rd and ELL's. Your little ones will love this one! Language
Arts, grades Pre-K-3.
LITERATURE FOR ELEMENTARY
GRADES
-
http://www.seussville.com
This is the official site
for Dr. Seuss! Here children can play games with Seussville
characters and read segments of stories from this beloved
children's author. Also provides information about upcoming national
and local "Seuss" events such as the "Read Across America" campaign.
A small but entertaining site. Language Arts; grades K-5.
-
http://www.ucalgary.ca/~dkbrown/stories.html
This is one of many sites currently on the internet with children's stories
that you can either read right on the screen or download and print out.
In some of the collections, you can even "click" on an unfamiliar
word in the text and get an instant definition! This particular site
is divided by categories such as: Story Collections; Folktales, Myths,
and Legends; Songs and Poetry; Contemporary Writings, Classics for Young
People, et al. Language Arts; grades 2-8.
-
http://www.icdlbooks.org/
This is an amazing site from the University of Maryland called "The
International Children's Digital Library. Like entry #5 above, you
can download readable and printable versions of children's stories. This
site, however, is far more extensive than anything else I've seen. In
the words of its creators: "The International Children's Digital Library
(ICDL) is a 5-year research project to develop innovative software and
a collection of books that specifically address the needs of children as
readers. Interdisciplinary researchers from computer science, library studies,
education, art, and psychology are working together with children to design
this new library. With participants from around the world, the ICDL
is building an international collection that reflects both the diversity
and quality of children's literature. Currently, the collection includes
materials donated from 27 cultures in 15 languages." When finished,
it will be the world's largest children's library. Important note: Check
system requirements when you get to the home page. This site is large and
dynamic and requires special plug-ins and downloads (e.g. Java), but it's
well-worth it! Language Arts, grades K-8.
-
http://www.classicfairytales.com/
This is a delightful site from Canada. Read and hear interactive, narrated,
animated stories retelling the beloved fairy tales by authors like Hans
Christian Andersen and the Brothers' Grimm, featuring animals, princesses,
magic, and fabulous creatures. The stories link to learning activities,
coloring downloads, arts, games and other kid stuff. (Be sure to click
on the English version, not the French!) Language Arts; grades K-8.
-
http://www.poetry4kids.com/
The creator of this site, Kenn Nesbitt, is a renown and well-published
author whose specialty is children's humorous poetry. Many of his very
funny poems and stories are included on the site, along with lessons
designed to teach children to write their own poems. Links to the works
of other children's authors, e.g. Dr. Seuss, Shel Silverstein, Jack Prelutsky
et al. If you have students who enjoy poetry, this would be a good place
to visit. Language Arts; grades 3-8.
LITERATURE FOR SECONDARY GRADES
-
http://www.sparknotes.com/
This is one of the most popular sites on the Internet for secondary students.
Do you remember Cliff Notes, those little paperback booklets that gave
synopses, character analyses, and other key information about a piece
of literature you were studying in high school? Well, this site does
'virtually' the same thing, only better! Choose general literature, drama,
poetry, even Shakespeare. Simply do a "Search" using the title
of your work and you're there! Read a complete synopsis with detailed,
chapter by chapter analysis of your favorite short story or novel. Download
full texts of some classic literature. Use the Message Board to discuss
particular elements of a work with other students. You can even print
out the "SparkNotes." Other subjects include Biographies, Math,
Chemistry, Biology, etc. You have to 'sign up' for the site but it's
free. Your students will love it! Language Arts and Math, grades 6-12.
-
http://highschoolhub.org/hub/english.cfm
See entry C-7 for an explanation of the main High School Hub site.
Links to Spelling, Grammar, Literature, Poetry, etc. Check out the Literature
Study Guides (e.g. To Kill A Mockingbird, Romeo and Juliet, The Crucible,
The Tales of Two Cities, etc.). Great site!! Language Arts; grades 9-12.
BIOGRAPHIES
-
http://www.people.virginia.edu/~jbh/author.html
This site is a collection of biographical sketches of famous literary authors,
listed alphabetically. If you are reading the novels of Pearl S. Buck
or Earnest Hemingway, for example, you could find biographies of the
authors here. Language Arts; grades 6-12.
-
http://www.malaspina.org/
This site, like entry #11 above, is devoted primarily to biographies,
but in this case, the entries are not limited to literary authors. Biographies
are offered of great people in the fields of art, music, theatre, history,
and science as well. So, if you wanted to find some information about
the life of Albert Einstein, for example. you would come here. As a bonus,
each biography has links to other sites with even more information about
the person you are researching. Language Arts; grades 6 - 12.
GRAMMAR AND STYLE
-
http://andromeda.rutgers.edu/~jlynch/Writing/l
This site was penned by a college professor, who refers
to it as "A
Guide to Grammar and Style." It contains numerous explanations and
illustrations of basic grammar rules and elements of style. There are also
links to additional sites; a useful tool. Language Arts, grades 9-12.
-
http://www.grammarbook.com/
Jane Straus' reference, The Book of Grammar and Punctuation, is presented
here. The site includes explanations, exercises, and actual on-line tests
(with answers); good practice! Language Arts, grades 6-12.
-
http://www.wordcentral.com/
This is a fun grammar and word site for elementary and middle school students.
Look up words (fast!) in the Student Dictionary or build your own dictionary!
You can also play interactive word games. This site is busy and it sometimes
takes a while to log on but it's well worth the wait. Language Arts,
grades 3-8.
-
http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/
A comprehensive site including, among other things, tutorials on English grammar
and writing. Useful FAQ and 'Ask Grammar' sections.
WRITING
-
http://andromeda.rutgers.edu/~jlynch/EngPaper/
This site was penned by the same college professor as with entry #13.
He calls it "Getting an A on an English Paper." In it, the
professor explains in detail the elements of a good paper, e.g., Thesis,
Research,
Close Reading, Style, and Mechanics. You can click on any of these terms
and get quite a bit of information on writing a good paper. Additionally,
the author provides links to related sites. Language Arts, grades 9-12.
-
http://www.bartleby.com/141/
This is the quintessential writer's reference tool by William Strunk, Jr.
His classic text, Elements of Style, is presented here, in abbreviated
form. Includes a section on commonly misused words and expressions and
commonly misspelled words. Language Arts, grades 9-12.
-
http://webster.commnet.edu/writing/symbols.htm
This site offers illustrations and explanations of common proofreading
symbols and abbreviations. It's basically a 'one-page', which you can
print out for ready reference. Language Arts, grades 4-12.
-
http://www.ipl.org/div/aplus/
If you need to do a high school term paper or research paper, this is the
site you want. It's called the "A+ Research and Writing for High
School and College Students." It includes a step-by-step guide to
researching and writing papers, along with numerous links for more information.
Language Arts, grades 11-12.
-
http://members.tripod.com/~lklivingston/essay/
This site is a guide for essay writing and is presented in a very clear,
easy to read format. There are explanations of the various elements of
an essay, e.g. theme, body, introduction, conclusion, etc. It even includes
a sample essay, with analysis, along with numerous links to other essay
resources on line. Language Arts, grades 7-12.
-
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/graphicorganizers/
This page of this extensive and excellent
educational site illustrates many kinds of graphic organizers,
especially useful for middle and high school students
studying the writing process.
REFERENCE MATERIALS
-
http://www.tnellen.com/cybereng/lit_terms/index.html
A concise listing of literary terms, in alphabetical order. Simply click
on a term for its definition; includes links to some other reference
sources. Language Arts; grades 9-12.
-
http://www.rhymezone.com/
This is the best rhyming dictionary on the net! Type in a word and instantly
find its rhymes, synonyms, definitions, and more. Language Arts; grades
2-12.
-
http://rpo.library.utoronto.ca/
An extensive library of poetry, as well as an excellent list of
poetic terms, in alphabetical order. Select Glossary, then simply
click
on a term for its definition. Language
Arts; grades
9-12.
-
http://www.uncp.edu/home/canada/work/allam/general/glossary.htm
An alphabetical glossary of literary terms with lengthy definitions and
verbal illustrations. Language Arts; grades 9-12.
-
http://www.bartleby.com/61/
This address will take you directly to the online version of the American
Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition. Over 90,000
entries feature 10,000 new words and senses, 70,000 audio word pronunciations,
900 full-page color illustrations, language notes and word-root appendices;
a practical and authoritative guide. Simply type in a word and click "Search." Language
Arts; grades 5-12.
-
http://thesaurus.reference.com/help/faq/roget.html
This, of course, is the online version of the indispensable Roget's Thesaurus.
Simply type in a word, click "Search" and
you will get a concise definition, along with a list of synonyms, antonyms,
et al. Language Arts; grades 5-12.
GAMES AND ACTIVITIES
-
http://www.kidport.com/default.htm
Although this site is an internet-based educational service for a yearly
fee, there is an area for each grade level with free activities for grades
1-8. The language arts section is particularly useful. Simply click on
a grade level and then choose a subject. Good review and practice activities.
(Also listed under the heading "Resources and Links.") Language
Arts/Math; grades 1-8.
C.
RESOURCES
AND LINKS
-
http://www.lausd.k12.ca.us/kids/
This is a brand new section of the LAUSD website specifically
geared for students. It's referred to as "The website for the students
of The Los Angeles Unified School District." Useful for homework
help, research paper writing, reference materials (i.e. dictionaries
and encyclopedias), and games and puzzles; grades K-2 will require
teacher/parent assistance in navigating around the site; Language Arts
and Math; grades
3-12.
- http://www.lapl.org/
This is the website for the Los Angeles Public Library. Click on Kids' Path for
sections such as: Homework Reference Center, Cool Sites for Kids, Recommended
Reading Lists, etc. Click on Teen Web for sections such as: Homework Help,
What Do You Think?, Teen Stuff, etc. These will take you to various databases
with links on the Internet to find virtually anything you need. There are even
sections in Spanish. Students may need your help in navigating to the appropriate
sites. Some links may require a library card number. Language Arts and Math;
grades K-12.
-
http://pbskids.org/
This is the official website for all of PBS programming for children. Here you
will find engaging and educational games and activities related to all of the
programs, e.g. Reading Rainbow, Mr. Roger's, Clifford, Sesame Street and Barney,
to name a few. Your young students will know! Links to additional educational
resources abound. Language Arts, Math, and all other content areas; grades
Pre-K-5.
-
http://www.nickjr.com/
Like its non-commercial counterpart above (entry #3), Nick Jr. is the children's
internet component of the commercial Nickelodeon television network. Here you
will find games, stories, music, art activities, printables, etc. which relate
to such programs as Blue's Clues, Dora the Explorer, Little Bill, and others.
Your young students will know! Useful section for parents as well. Language
Arts, Math, and all other content areas; grades Pre-K-5.
-
http://www.ajkids.com/
This is the popular children's version of the "Ask Jeeves" site. Study
tools include areas on dictionaries, thesaurus, almanac, biography, science,
math, history, et al. Also includes games, news resources, and a parent's section.
An excellent jumping off point for getting homework, research help. Language
Arts, Math, and other content areas, grades 3-12.
-
http://www.bigchalk.com/
This is one of the larger and well-known commercial databases of educational
resources on the web. The best way to start would be by clicking on "Homework
Central" This is a free directory of educational web sites created especially
for students and teachers. Select a grade level (K-5, 6-8, 9-12) and you will
be taken to a page with numerous links for virtually all academic subjects,
including language arts, math, social studies, history, etc. Language Arts,
Math, and other content areas; grades K-12.
-
http://highschoolhub.org/hub/
Here is a direct quote from the Home Page of this wonderful site for high school
students: "The High School Hub is a noncommercial learning portal to excellent
free educational resources for high school students. It features online learning
activities, an ongoing teen poetry contest, a reference collection, college
information, and subject guides for English, mathematics, science, social studies,
and world languages." It's a great database
for all high school students and high school subjects. Check it out! Language
Arts, Math and other content areas; grades 9-12.
-
http://school.aol.com/
Referred to as "AOL At School," this site is an excellent jumping off
point for students interested in any subject and for any grade level, K through
12; includes brain teasers, study kits, and reference materials for each grade
level; also includes resources for teachers. This site is referenced on the new
kids-oriented site of LAUSDnet called "LAUSDnet KIDS" (see entry #1
above).
Language Arts and Mathematics; grades K-12.
-
http://www.myenglishzone.com/
Originally designed to aid English Language Learners, this impressive site, has
expanded to help all students of English, including native speakers. Students
can learn idioms, practice with English verbs, test their grammar, check out
the Fun Stuff pages, write silly stories, or visit links to other English sites.
Visit the Teacher's Zone, filled with ready-to-print materials usable for the
ESL classroom, including worksheets, handouts, or quizzes. There are dozens
of links to other sites for teachers as well. Although a nominal yearly fee
is required for full access to the site, much of it is free. Language Arts;
grades 3-12.
-
http://www.edu4kids.com/
This small, not-for-profit site is a web-based Internet learning resource.
Its mission is to provide a "place where [kids] could come and play drill
games to better their skills and to learn." One of the more refreshing
aspects of this site is that the creators ensure that students will never have
to be forced to look at banner advertisements while using their software. Many
other educational sites, with ".com" mentalities, cannot make this
promise. Find drill games in Language Arts, Math, Social Studies, and Science.
Interesting. May require some supervision to navigate and follow instructions.
Language Arts, Math, and other content areas; grades K-12.
-
http://www.enchantedlearning.com/Home.html
This extensive site has activities for students to do in virtually all content
areas. Special themed sections and seasonal activities are a highlight. Lots
of fun and interesting things to do--study dinosaurs, print out a custom calendar,
learn how to make a diorama, practice vocabulary words, learn about animals,
music, inventors--the possibilities are limitless. Language Arts, Math, and
other content areas; grades Pre-K-12.
-
http://www.kidport.com/default.htm
Although this site is an internet-based educational service for a yearly fee,
there is an area for each grade level with free activities for grades 1-8.
Content areas include language arts, math, social studies, science, et al.
Simply click on a grade level and then choose a subject. Good review and practice
activities. Language Arts and Mathematics; grades 1-8.
-
http://www.edbydesign.com/index.html
This Australian-based website offers interactive, educational activities for
children ages 5-12. Play Scrambler puzzles, practice mathematical skills, and
publish your stories, jokes, riddles, and poems online. Some of our activities
are designed to cater for children at a very basic level of understanding while
other activities are designed to extend and develop their creativity. Language
Arts and Mathematics; grades K-7.
-
http://www.globalclassroom.org/ecell00/javamath.html
This is the "link" page from a site, created by a teacher for an elementary
school in Maryland. Here you will find a very good list of other interactive
sites with numerous learning games and activities. Many of the sites are for
math but language arts, science, and social studies sites are also referenced.
Language Arts and Math and other content areas; grades K-6.
- http://linkasaurus.com/
This site is an ENORMOUS list of links for kids and called: "Hundreds of
Official Kids Sites in One Place." Lists sites for learning, entertainment,
games, reference materials (particularly useful!) , science, sports, movies,
etc. Language Arts, Math, and other content areas; grades 2-10.
-
http://www.education.com
This resource required registration but, don't worry, it's free. Teachers and
students may register. Once you're in, there are all kinds of games, activities,
homework help, etc. for both language arts and math. Some of the games are
similar to CD-rom learning games. Useful. Language Arts and Math; grades 2-8.
-
http://www.kidsites.com/
This is a database that describes itself as "the leading guide to the
best in kids' websites." Just click on an area of interest and you are
immediately taken to that site. All the links are educational and include
numerous games and activities. Try out the latest featured site, "Game
Goo." It's hysterical! Language Arts and Math, grades K-8.
-
http://mrsalphabet.com/home.html
This site has games and activities designed to assist
children in early learning and successful progress
in alphabet recognition, phonics, beginning reading,
and math. Check out the "links" section for both language arts and
math. Language Arts, Math, and other content areas; grades Pre-K-2.
-
http://www.writing-world.com/links/young.shtml
A set of links for young writers on a site called Writing-World. Some of them
look really good! They include sites where young writers can publish their
work on the web. [EDITOR'S NOTE: I HAVE YET TO SCREEN EACH OF THE LINKS, SO
I CAN'T GUARANTEE THAT THEY WORK OR THAT EVERY SINGLE ONE IS APPROPRIATE--HOWEVER,
I DO RECOGNIZE MANY OF THE NAMES AND KNOW THAT THEY'RE REPUTABLE, E.G., STONE
SOUP AND AARON SHEPARD'S YOUNG AUTHOR PAGE. (IF I CHECK THE INDIVIDUAL LINKS
LATER, I'LL
LET YOU
KNOW.)]
D.
MISCELLANEOUS
http://www.kids-space.org/index.html
This is well-designed, award-winning international site created by Kids'
Space Foundation, a non-profit children's educational foundation. It
is currently being utilized in classrooms around the world. Part of its
missions is to " provide high quality yet commercial free web sites
for learning and collaboration among students and teachers" and
to "engage children's minds and curiosity, stimulating learning
through self-discovery." Learn how to create and share artwork,
stories, even original music with other children on the net while learning
how to safely use internet features. This is the "of kids, by kids,
for kids" site. Language Arts, Visual and Performing Arts, grades
2-10.
-
http://www.alyencreations.com/grabbag/
This remarkable and award-winning kid site was created by David Sawchak,
who was only seven years old when he started the Grab Bag Page. (He's
10 now!). It's a colorful and entertaining place to visit and includes
entire sections on themes of interest to children including space, dinosaurs,
the beach, summer activities etc. Language Arts, Math, and other content
areas; grades 2-6.
-
http://www.afb.org/braillebug/
The Braille Bug site teaches sighted children all about Braille Alphabet
and raises awareness for the issues that face America's 10 million blind
or visually impaired children and adults…fund activities that help
children familiarize themselves with Braille and its history." -
quoted from NEA Today (Nov. 2002, p. 44). Although this site is a bit
beyond the scope of this collection, I thought it was so interesting
that I included it anyway! Many children, particularly in middle grades,
are fascinated by the Braille system. Language Arts; grades 3-8.
-
http://www.funology.com/
As so many of our homebound students suffer from boredom, I felt that this
site may be just what the doctor ordered. In the creators words, "Funology.com
is where you can allow your kids to SAFELY use the Internet. We offer
online activities and offline activities. You can find instructions for
kids' games, recipes, craft projects. The site includes areas with science
experiments, quizzes, trivia, all kinds of great learning activities.
jokes, games, magic, tricks, trivia, recipes, things to make, things
to do alone or with parents or friends. Well-worth exploring for those
long stretches between classes! Language Arts and
Math; grades 3-8.
-
http://www.learningpage.com/free_pages/home.html
This site is more for you, the instructor, than it is for your students.
However, the very useful instructional materials (in the form of printable
worksheets) you can find at this site can be printed out and used immediately
by your students, For example, there are printable full-color leveled
reader stories complete with teachers notes and worksheets in both English
and Spanish. There are also vocabulary books and mini-readers. Let's
say you're working with a primary grade student on print practice. You
can download worksheets in a variety of print styles, such as Zaner-Bloser,
D'Nealian, Cursive, etc. There's much more as well. Membership is free
and secure. All they require is your web address and they will provide
a password for access. Language Arts, grades K-6.
-
http://www.flashcardexchange.com/index.jsp
This site has flashcards that can be printed out--all sorts of flashcards,
for language arts, math, science, social studies, etc. Choose the format
of the cards, the typeface, the size (e.g. 3X5 or 4X6) etc. I thought
the ones for math were particularly useful because they were so comprehensive--basic
math facts (addition, multiplication), fact families, math vocabulary,
and a whole host of others. The language arts flashcards include Dolch/site
words, high frequency words, phonics, vocabulary, spelling words, etc.
You have to explore this site to really see its potential. Language Arts,
Math, and other content areas; grades K-12.
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