Google Slides is one of my favorite tools to use in the classroom. Think of Google Slides as Google’s version of Powerpoint, but it’s free with your Google account! In addition, Google Slides gives the ability to edit and collaborate in real-time. There are so many benefits to Google Slides. Get started using Slides in your classroom!
Switching from Powerpoint to Slides
Since many schools are going from Microsoft to Google, you may find that you have so many of your resources on Powerpoint. Do you have to recreate them? No! There are simple steps you can take to transfer your PPT files to Slides. Simply upload your PPT file to Drive, then you can reopen as a Google Slides presentation.
If you’re used to Powerpoint and want to see how similar features work in Slides, refer to this easy “switching to Google Slides” guide.
Creating New Files
Creating new files is so simple. Start from the Slides homepage and just click Create. If you’re in Drive, just go to the NEW button, click Slides, and click Blank or from a Template.
Now is when the fun starts. Google Slides is perfect for creating presentations, interactive activities for your students, or collaborative activities.
Add Content
Google Slides allows you to add content to enhance your presentations. Choose a theme if desired, then start making your slides your own. Under the “insert” menu, there are several types of content you can add.
Images
If a picture is worth 1000 words, Google Slides images are definitely in that category! Insert images from Drive, safe search images from Google, upload from your device or Google Photos, point to a URL, or use your camera.
Text
Insert a text box anywhere on slides. Keep in mind that less is often more when it comes to text. If your students are like mine, most of them need visuals to help them understand concepts. Keep the text to a minimum.
Audio
Audio files can be uploaded from your device. .MP3 and .WAV formats are compatible with Google Slides. This is a newer feature of slides, and it makes it so simple to add your own voice to your presentations.
Video
Google Slides integrates so well with YouTube. It’s simple to add URLs or simply search for YouTube videos to add to your Slides. You can also upload your own videos to share in the slide presentation.
Shapes, Tables, Charts, and More
There are other dynamic features that allow your students to have a unique experience with your slide presentations! Play with inserting different shapes to design or insert pictures. Tables give an organized way to share information, and charts and diagrams are also important text features to enhance your presentations.
Collaborate
Google Slides is more than just a presentation tool. It’s a collaboration tool. Create or upload a slide presentation to share in Google Classroom. You have three options when sharing slides. One is view only. This is perfect to share notes with students. Next, is make a copy for each student. This is one I use often to let each student have their own editable assignment. Finally, there is the option to allow students to edit. This is a great chance to allow your students to all collaborate and create slides together. Use this to have your students collaborate on a memory book or introduce themselves at the start of the year. You can also have small groups assigned editable slides to work on together. The possibilities are endless!
Google Slides is one of the most powerful tools I’ve used in my classroom because of the accessibility to students and teachers and the ability to collaborate. Try these simple tips and check out ready-to-use digital resources with Google Slides!
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