From resources targeted specifically at STEM teachers to those which can be applied across any classroom in the state, check out Alice’s curated list of incredible digital resources.

Resources covered in this article:

• MathsStarters

• Windows Clock App

• Blooket

• Chemix

• Google Classroom

MathsStarters

This free-to-access website is one of my go-to tools which has quickly been embedded into my class as a start of lesson routine. Suitable for students from Stage 1 to Stage 4, I frequently utilise the Quick Quiz tool which generates 10 questions prompting students to use retrieval practices and revise key concepts. The website also offers bingo games and number games, which are great no-prep options for concluding a lesson.

Windows Clock App

If you’re a Windows user, try the ‘Clock’ application. This is particularly useful for differentiated activities where groups have various time allocations for tasks. I generally find that having time apps displayed on the classroom screen helps students maintain their concentration and focus, while also aiding them in managing their time more effectively.

Blooket

I use Quizlet to create flashcards for vocabulary on various topics and then import these into Blooket to design engaging games. Blooket utilises the terms and definitions to generate a variety of games that allow students to practice their knowledge. Typically, I run a game for 5 to 7 minutes, where students earn points and can even steal points from each other. My students particularly enjoy these activities, with Cryptohack being their favourite.

Chemix

Chemix is an invaluable tool for drawing laboratory equipment. As a science teacher, I find it exceptionally useful for creating clear visual representations of lab setups, which helps students understand exactly what they need to do. Additionally, Chemix serves as a great resource for students, allowing them to create their own diagrams for investigation reports and assignments.

Google Classroom

An excellent organisational tool, particularly for high school teachers who often move between different classrooms throughout the day. I prefer to organise each lesson on Google Classroom, where each post includes the necessary equipment, learning intentions, success criteria, planned activities, and relevant links and attachments. This centralises all the information in one place,and provides a convenient record of each lesson. It also allows students to easily review past lessons or catch up if they were absent.

Additionally, I utilise the practice set feature in Google Classroom to help students remember key content, such as formulas and valencies for polyatomic ions in HSC chemistry. 'Practice sets' function like quizzes but can be attempted an unlimited number of times. As a teacher, I receive a heat map indicating which questions the class needs to revisit, making it a valuable formative assessment tool that guides the next steps in teaching and learning.