PreZentIt is a free presentation, web-based program for creating, editing and presenting images and text. This seems almost the same as creating a powerpoint presentation, except it allows multiple user editing simultaneously, and is on the cloud, so isn't 'stuck" on a computer, when you need it in another location.
Jeopardy Labs provides a web-based jeopardy game template for users to create or browse others' created games for use in the classroom. This is a must for alternate assessment activities, and one which I enjoy using especially in preparation for state-mandated tests.
Diagnostic assessments drive the instruction process, when teachers/presenters know what the students know, need to know or wonder about. Poll Everywhere is an audience response system using standard web technology. It works through text, web, or Twitter, its simplicity and flexibility are earning rave reviews. I love it because responses show up immediately on the screen, allowing the instructor to create a chart, or just show responses. This is a free web-based program for up to 30 responders.
Animoto is the simplest of all free presentation tools! It also doesn't profess to allow the user to do everything. It allows educators to create an unlimited number of videos from still images, including a choice of background music.
Camtasia Studio offers a free 30 day trial, but purchasing is so worth it! This program from TechSmith allows the user to edit video and capture screen images. As a video editing program, the user can incorporate video, audio, images, stills, in a user-friendly medium. This program is easier to use than most, which is why I choose this as best of its kind.
Gliffy provides the typical "flowchart" type graphic. Sometimes, these are the best manners of organizing information prior to learning, since it clearly identifies the "big" ideas, as well as supporting details. It is better than many graphic organizers since it also enables the user to create Venn Diagrams, SWOT analysis, or floor plans. This free version is available for only a limited number of uses.
Although Prezi is advertised as a presentation device, it works really well to graphically present information, so I prefer it as a graphic organizer. Prezi provides a medium to allow words to flow, enabling the user to zoom in to information "hidden" as a subcategory within the main points. This is a very exciting new program, which I have gladly paid a subscription for! There remain some gltiches in publishing, such as to wordpress, or from the desktop application.
Students can use this survey to help to identify themselves as a learner. Especially great for teachers who seldom occupy the role as student! I like this tool especially for its simplicity; with only 27 questions, users get information on learning styles based on their results from the survey.
Wordle is a program for generating "word clouds" from text that you provide. The clouds give greater prominence to words that appear more frequently in the source text.
This website deals with propaganda, especially as it applies to the Nazi war machine. Its strengths are the vast number of primary sources and links to primary sources.
This website instructs in the persuasive technique of utilizing propaganda, instructing in several specific techniques, such as name-calling, testimonials, and bandwagon.