Writing+Tools

=__Writing Tools__= Online writing tools are a great way to engage students in doing something that is not only novel and interactive but also asks them to use reading and writing skills such as summarizing, narration, comparison, categorizing, evaluation, and calls on them to add personal expression to their assignments. A lot of these tools also assist teachers in producing concrete projects that can be applied to their curriculum and evaluated easily. Plus, kids love being online and exploring new technologies, so they're sure to be excited about creating on the computer!
 * Comic Strip Makers**
 * [] - Make Beliefs Comix - create a comic strip with various characters, backgrounds, objects, animals, and word bubbles. Exciting for the visual learner and a great way to work on summarizing skills.
 * [] - Cartoon maker and more!

> read-alouds.
 * Digital Storytelling**
 * [] - Book Builder is a great site where students can create their own online books with words and images. They can also view and rate other people's stories. This site references UDL, or the Universal Design for Learning approach to curriculum, which applies to diverse learner classrooms and flexible learning. Watch the UDL video for more information. A good choice for Intermediate level students.
 * []- More digital storytelling for the younger crowd with lesson plans and
 * [] - International Children's Digital Library allows kids to view books online in languages from around the world. Great for ESL kids and students in foreign language courses.
 * [] - Collaborative storytelling that uses artists' imagery to create little "storybirds". These can be watched like an interactive book, emailed to others, commented on and more. Watch the "Tour" video to see how the site works.
 * [] - Publish your own childrens book! Another book-building site that is geared more towards the younger student, and also has ready-made templates such as Cars and Trucks, Treasure Map Maker, Magic and Outer Space.
 * [] - A digital storytelling site that allows you to make "pop-up" books online with images that stand up in "3-D" as you turn the page.


 * Graphic Organizers**
 * [] - Interactive site that allows students to create mind maps and graphic organizers!
 * [] - An interactive way to create Venn Diagrams. Drag and drop keywords into each circle, and write longer descriptions about the keywords that will appear on the diagram when printed. An excellent way to practice CRISS strategies, typing, and explaining the reasoning behind the comparison.
 * Word Clouds**
 * [] - Make a word cloud in the shape of a picture with tags linking to your website or blog!
 * [] - A word cloud builder that is easy to use and great for students!
 * [] - Word clouds in the shape of a picture; transform speeches, articles, even tweets and blogs.