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LESSON IDEAS
LESSON IDEA 20.07: DOT-TO-DOT PICTURES
Objective: Add a different dimension to images by turning them into dots Age range: 7-14 Website: picturedots.com
The idea behind dot-to-dot images is simple enough: join the dots to create a recognisable picture. But how easy is it to create them?
METHOD
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1. Go to picturedots.com. Images can be created without signing up (but if you do, you can save your work on the site). Select ‘Make Puzzle’ and ‘Load Image’.
3. Add lines as necessary to complete the picture. 4. Preview and, if you’re happy, make a PDF and download.
2. Enter a link to you chosen image and it will load. (We’ve picked the Eiffel Tower for this example, as it has a simple outline shape.) Draw the dots in appropriate places around the image. These will automatically record and number with each mouse click. Dots can be moved or backed-up.
5. There’s also a comprehensive tutorial that goes through this whole process.
IN THE CLASSROOM From choosing an appropriate image, to picking the spots to place the dots, the creation of dot-to-dot images offers several artistic, creative and technological challenges to solve – and then there’s the fun of having a go with the outcomes.
20.08
LESSON IDEA 20.08: TIKTOK
Objective: Creating and using short videos for learning. Age range: 13+ Website: tiktok.com
TikTok is a short-form video creation tool and social media platform rolled into one. You’ve probably heard of the app but have you thought of using it to engage students in class?
METHOD 1. It’s unlikely to need any introduction – and controls are fairly easy to master – so you can dive straight in. 2. One way to use TikTok is to make your own ‘teaching’ videos. In the spirit of the flipped classroom, make short videos explaining concepts, setting assignments, and so on. 3. Alternatively, working individually or in small groups, ask students to create their own videos. They can be on any number of topics, including: • showing an understanding of something, like an equation or experiment; • making presentations and speeches • speaking foreign languages;
• demonstrating sports or dance moves; or • making a news report. 4. If you’re worried about privacy, there are settings that allow for the creation of closed classroom groups for safe sharing.
IN THE CLASSROOM Using videos isn’t just fun, they’re proven to be highly effective in learning. Students need creative and digital skills to make them. Plus, using a social media tool is always a good way to start conversations about privacy and appropriate online practices. (And if you don’t fancy using TikTok, there are similar apps.)
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