I tried something new called the bubbl.us. There were some pretty cool features when I was making a brainstorming map that I use with my third grade students. I’ll get back to that. These are my first impressions. I could be missing something.
Pros of using the website:
- It is easy to move the bubbles from one bubble to another
- The color automatically changes depending on the connection
- The color of the bubble can be changed
- The arrows stretch automatically to wherever you drag your bubble
- You can zoom in and see what you have created
Cons of using the website:
- It was frustrating at first to pop a bubble I didn’t want (They seem to multiply like rabbits)
- As a free user you only receive 3 sheets
Despite my frustration level with multiplying bubbles I can see how this could be a useful and fun tool for students to use in the classroom. I would probably use this with higher level group at first and then partner up students who have had experience with bubbl.us.
Possible Uses in the classroom:
- Sequencing activity (time line)
- Brainstorming
- Compare and Contrast
- Pros and Cons
- Generating Questions and Answers
- Character Analysis
- Analysis of anything (time, place, plot, ect..)
3rd Grade Brainstorming Activity
For leveled instruction a pre-bubble sheet could be created. To try out the bubbl.us site, I have created a brainstorming activity for my third grade students. Here is an extreme shorten version of a way that I use this type activity. After reading the story Tar Beach I have them fill out a brainstorming sheet. Then they use this as their plan for drawing their pictures and writing their story. I said it was short. This type of activity helps my students plan out what they want to draw and write about.
Enjoy trying to create or pop your own bubbles.
-Mrs. Berry
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