Global Read Aloud (GRA) is a project that encourages teachers to share a read aloud with their students and connect with others from around the world who read the same book. There are many ways to connect with others:

• Tweet using the #GRA16 hashtag (or a hashtag for the book you are reading)
• Schedule a Skype or Google Hangout session (or several throughout the reading of a book) with another class
• Have students digitally reflect on the book and share out
  

Click here for this year's book list and suggested reading schedule and here to sign up. GRA 2016 runs from October 3rd–November 11th.

If you are interested in participating in this year's Global Read Aloud, I'd be happy to help you brainstorm ideas, find resources, and seek out classroom connections. This is a wonderful activity that utilizes the 4Cs and reaches beyond the four walls of the classroom.

More and more applications are teaming up with Google Classroom to make it even easier to create assignments and announcements. Some of these apps are free, some are not. Here is a list of 35 applications, including IXL, WeVideo, and Quizlet, that have integrated with Google Classroom.

GoNoodle is a site that offers a variety of brain breaks for students (these are perfect for indoor recess)! Each mix takes the class through a warm-up, longer active session, and a cool-down at the end. On average, these mega mixes range from 7-15 minutes. You can find them all under the Indoor Recess tag after logging in. GoNoodle is a free service (registration required) that offers a wide variety of movement and brain breaks, including Zumba, yoga, and running exercises!

You can also find many of the videos on YouTube. I've included one below.

The Research option under Tools has been replaced with the new Explore button. It can be found under Tools or in the lower right corner of the screen. Explore has been added to Docs, Slides, and Sheets. For more detailed information on what Explore has to offer, check out this blog post.