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Embedit.In (part of Box.net) is a nifty online tool to convert most file formats to embeddable code for wikis, websites, blogs and more. Once embedded, you can write on them with an onscreen pen or highlight. When you upload the document and push 'embed', it provides a code to be copied and shows what the file will look like when it's embedded. I have 5th graders use it to embed their projects into their wiki pages. I teach them how to save MS Office files to pdfs (through the 'save as' button) and then convert the file to an embeddable format for their digital portfolios. Here's all you do: Log in using your Google, Twitter, Open ID, Yahoo, WordPress or AOL identity. I like that. One less log-in to remember. Upload the file Wait a moment while it processes and copy the embed code to the clipboard Paste the html code into the widget or embed code (or the html format for blogs) button and save.

Sometimes a yes or no answer is not enough. You need a way to sit with that student and observe the ways they attack a problem. Place a tablet with Educreations between yourself and the student and hit record. Everything they write, everything they say, and their step-by-step process will be recorded on the screen for you to review later, share with colleagues or parents.

Don't use dry erase boards. Write directly on desks.

MoodTurn.com is a website that plays calming sounds and shows relaxing pictures. This could work well when a class needs some settling down time. It could even be used within creative writing sessions as a stimulus.

"end of the year gifts for class: make word clouds with positive traits for each of my students. use a "Describe Me" sheet, have students write positive character traits of each of their classmates."

Quipper is a free tool for creating quizzes to be taken on iPhones, on Android tablets, and on Android phones. Quipper quizzes are multiple choice activities created by the community of users. As a Quipper quiz creator you can make your quizzes public or private. When you create a quiz on Quipper you can include explanations for each answer. To create a quiz you can write each question and answer choice manually or you can import a spreadsheet of questions and answers. If you decide to try Quipper, keep in mind that quiz publishing isn't instantaneous.

Little Bird Tales is very easy to use. Just upload images (or draw your own right on the site), type in text, and record your voice. Then use the link for your "tale" to share it with the world. A demo video on the site's home page walks you through these steps as well. Judging from the things my students have come up with to do with Little Bird Tales, this site is MUCH more than just a storytelling tool.