Rubrics
Rubrics are awesome! Except when kids can't read all the words. By using a visual as we create the anchor charts, kids can connect the expectation or learning to the visual. We usually create our writing anchor charts together, and I add on one thing at a time as we learn about it. Since we review it daily during writers workshop, kids get plenty of opportunity to connect the words and the visual.
Slideshows
Spice up your slideshows! I was able to make this slide super quickly because of the Icons from Flaticon add-on. Less text/more visual is a good rule of thumb for slide shows, so having thousands of icons available to add a visual support makes life easier.
Word Sorts
Once again with the visual supports. Having visuals helps make it easier the words for everyone and allows you to differentiate for students that may need more support reading the words. Plus no more, "What was that word again?" or sorting it incorrectly because they read the word incorrectly.
Behavior Charts
No more searching for random clipart that might work on Google. This allows me to quickly find the image I need. Plus, since it's so quick, I can sit down with the student and let them choose the icon that makes the most sense to them.**There are boob icons. So if you search person or people, the first screen of options are the safe ones. Don't get picky and keep looking for the perfect icon if a student is sitting with you. You'll definitely regret it.
Anchor Charts
I love the mini lesson anchor charts from Units of Study, but I don't love the 3,000 pages of reading and boxed curriculum that goes along with them. I started using The Reading Strategies book to create my own minilessons. Flaticon has make it easy to quickly add visuals to those charts. (You can read more about those lessons and see examples here.)
So, how do I get them?
If you're not familiar with add-ons, they allow you to do extra things within Chrome or Google files that aren't original features or options. They're super easy to add. While in a Google file (I like Slides best), go to Add-ons-->Get add-ons-->Search for Flaticon-->Click on Icons from Flaticon-->Install!
Things to know:
•They're free for personal use. If you use them in files for commercial use, you'll need a paid subscription.•You are limited to a certain number of free icons a day (maybe 10?) That restriction is lifted if you set up a free account.
•You can customize the color by knowing the hex code you need.
•You can see more about how I use them in my Instagram Highlights (click here to watch the stories).
I'm just getting started using icons and would love more ideas! What are you using them for?