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Art and Architecture Thesaurus - Getty Museum
Grades
6 to 12
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The Getty museum has compiled a very complete, easily used thesaurus of art and architecture terms. Type in a generic search word related to art and architecture, and this handy ...more
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The Getty museum has compiled a very complete, easily used thesaurus of art and architecture terms. Type in a generic search word related to art and architecture, and this handy research tool will provide its definition, related terms, and position within the site's hierarchical database. Art teachers and students will find this one a valuable research and study tool for understanding art terminology and vocabulary. This is a text-only resource, but useful for clarifying concepts and styles.
tag(s): architecture (83), thesaurus (21), vocabulary (251)
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Think Tank - ALTEC at the University of Kansas
Grades
4 to 8
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The next time a research project comes along, send students to this site to help them get organized. Think Tank is designed to assist in the development of topics and ...more
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The next time a research project comes along, send students to this site to help them get organized. Think Tank is designed to assist in the development of topics and subtopics for reports and projects. After defining their subject or perusing a list of suggestions, students are asked to narrow the scope of their project by choosing from a collection of subtopics. Results may be printed.
tag(s): Research (87), science fairs (20)
In the Classroom
Share this site with your students before a new research project is assigned. Have students explore the site on individual computers while you model how to navigate the site on a projector or interactive whiteboard. Use this site to help students narrow down their research topic.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Define It Fast - WordNet 3.0 Princeton University
Grades
K to 12
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The goal of this website is to become the easiest, fastest online dictionary available. Is it? Try it, you'll be impressed. An exciting tool is the audio component, allowing ...more
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The goal of this website is to become the easiest, fastest online dictionary available. Is it? Try it, you'll be impressed. An exciting tool is the audio component, allowing you to listen to the English pronunciation for selected words ( the triangular "play" button will show next to the word on the entry) . DefineItFast.com has a bookmarklet that you can drag and drop to your browser's link bar (if your computer is not "locked down" at school). When you look up definitions, highlight the word and click the linkbar button or you can directly type the word by clicking the button and click 'OK'. View the tutorial video to learn more about the bookmarklet feature.
Note: The dictionary, like many real-world dictionaries, includes words that may not be classroom-appropriate. Decide how you will handle students who make inappropriate choices in using this tool.
tag(s): dictionaries (48)
In the Classroom
Definitely investigate the free Search Engine download that's available to make this tool even more useful. This may become your favorite dictionary-- bar none. You may want to save this site in your favorites on your class computer(s), but see the cautionary note above about the FULL database of words available.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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YourDictionary - LoveToKnow Corporation
Grades
K to 12
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A definitive authority on words, this free site gives you definitions, thesaurus entries, spellings, pronunciations, and etymology results. Add to that list an audio pronunciation system...more
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A definitive authority on words, this free site gives you definitions, thesaurus entries, spellings, pronunciations, and etymology results. Add to that list an audio pronunciation system that allows you to hear the word as well. YourDictionary also provides resources to help you find foreign language translation sites. It even directs you to medical, computer, or electricians' dictionaries, and many more. Haven't you always wanted to say a tongue-twister in the Asante language? Words have never so much fun. This site does include some advertisements.
tag(s): thesaurus (21)
In the Classroom
Send students to this site to look up those difficult words. ESL and ELL students can use this site to practice the pronunciation of new words. Be sure to mark this site as a favorite or share on your teacher web page for easy access.
This resource requires PDF reader software like Adobe Acrobat.
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Word Reference - wordreference.com
Grades
2 to 12
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This series of free translation dictionaries allows students to search in and out of English in the following languages: French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, and German. Once a definition...more
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This series of free translation dictionaries allows students to search in and out of English in the following languages: French, Spanish, Italian, Russian, and German. Once a definition comes up in English, there are links to other dictionary pages where the word appears in a sentence. You can click on the audio button to hear the word spoken in both languages. This feature is only available in more commonly used words
There are also direct links to other languages, so a student can easily check the same word in Spanish and French. In addition to the translation dictionaries, "English Dictionaries" (non-interactive) are available in Portuguese, Polish, Romanian, Czech, Turkish, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and Arabic (coming soon). Many of the foreign-language dictionaries will grow in size as the site developers add more vocabulary.
Be aware that this site includes minor advertisements. There is a link to Language Forums. It is probably best to advise students to avoid the forums.
tag(s): chinese (38), dictionaries (48), italian (32), japan (62), japanese (53), korea (21), portuguese (21), russia (33), russian (25)
In the Classroom
Save this site in your favorites on your classroom computers for use by ESL/ELL and foreign language students or for use when studying derivations and word families in English (compare the same word across several languages to see how close they can be!). Students can take an active role in vocabulary preview work by using this site prior to reading. Be sure to list this site on your class webpage so students can access this information both in and out of the classroom. If you are introducing new vocabulary words to your foreign language class. Have them use this site to find the appropriate translations. Then have the students work in cooperative learning groups to create online vocabulary guidebooks using a tool such as Bookemon. Have the groups share the online books on your interactive whiteboard or projector. Be sure to keep the links for future students to use the guides, as well.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Fact Monster Printables - Education World
Grades
2 to 8
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Weekly printable Hunt the Fact Monster activity sheets encourage students to build research skills and internet literacy as they use the Fact Monster search engine to find the answers...more
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Weekly printable Hunt the Fact Monster activity sheets encourage students to build research skills and internet literacy as they use the Fact Monster search engine to find the answers to the questions in the activity. There are separate sections for grades 2-3 and grades 4-8. This site requires Adobe Acrobat Reader. Get it from the TeachersFirst Toolbox page..
tag(s): search strategies (18)
In the Classroom
This site can be used for individual students, in a technology class, or as a parent-and-student together assignment. Be sure to see the Ideas for Using Hunt the Fact Monster in Your Classroom page for tips on using the hunts in your classroom. Before you launch your research project with younger students, use this exercise to solidify research basics or as a pretest to be sure everyone is ready. Challenge your more able students to create their own Fact Monster hunts on individual research topics and share them with classmates. Reading teachers can also use these activities to help students practice skimming and scanning.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Bibme - team exibeans
Grades
6 to 12
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BibMe is a one-stop source for all kinds of bibliography needs. It is a great online tool for bibliographies--and more. It even has a function for those students who ...more
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BibMe is a one-stop source for all kinds of bibliography needs. It is a great online tool for bibliographies--and more. It even has a function for those students who don't remember all the information for the source you cited. BibMe allows you to search from a database of millions of entries to find your source and autofill in the information. If you have the source in front of you, you can enter your entries manually. BibMe also offers resources to help you cite your work properly in the 'Citation Guide' section. It offers examples in MLA, APA, and Chicago formatting, making it useful for a wide variety of schools. Set up a free account for yourself so you can "save" bibliographies.
This site includes advertising.
This site includes advertising.
tag(s): citations (34), noregistration (75)
In the Classroom
This is a great tool for students who are both learning to cite correctly and as a helpful tool for those who forget some of the "little" things that count when writing a bibliography. It offers a great example, too, of the difference between what is in a "Works Cited" page and what actually appears in the text as a citation. Teachers can use this on a Smartboard or simply through a computer lab or projector to demonstrate the correct way to cite as well as mistakes to avoid. Be sure to include the link on your teacher web page for students finishing reports in the wee hours of the morning on the due date. Set up a free account for yourself so you can "save" example bibliographies. If you assign independent projects to your gifted students (or any student), be sure to make Bibme part of your instructions so they learn to organize their sources early on. If students are allowed to set up individual accounts, this tool is worth the time! They must be 13 or have parent permission.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Online Etymology Dictionary - Douglas Harper
Grades
6 to 12
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as the author explains, "Etymologies are not definitions; they're explanations of what our words meant 600 or 2,000 years ago." Use this quick online reference to locate the point in...more
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as the author explains, "Etymologies are not definitions; they're explanations of what our words meant 600 or 2,000 years ago." Use this quick online reference to locate the point in time when a word entered into usage the way we know it-- or to find out what it used to mean, such as in Shakespeare. Use the richness of these historical meanings to understand literature or to illustrate the living nature of language.
tag(s): vocabulary (251)
In the Classroom
Mark this one in the Favorites on classroom computers or in links on your English teacher web page. Feature a word a week on a projector before you start your lesson to help students think about the evolution of language.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Translating Dictionary - Dictionary.com
Grades
3 to 12
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This translation site provides translations to and from English in over 20 commonly spoken languages and offers both traditional and simplified Chinese. The site also features Grammar,...more
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This translation site provides translations to and from English in over 20 commonly spoken languages and offers both traditional and simplified Chinese. The site also features Grammar, Pronunciation, and a Thesaurus. Be careful not to click on the ads.
tag(s): asia (138), chinese (38), europe (82), french (72), german (49), italian (32), japanese (53), multilingual (82), spanish (112)
In the Classroom
For teachers, this site also provides reverse translation in case students repeatedly say words you wish you could understand. Note: Some districts may block access to this site to prevent foreign language students from cheating on homework assignments. If you have multilingual students, you may want to request permission to access the site only in your room to benefit students who really need it. A useful site to bookmark on classroom computers for your students who need occasional translations of difficult words and concepts.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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One Look Reverse Dictionary - Doug Beeferman
Grades
5 to 10
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Designed with ESL students in mind, this dictionary allows students to type in phrases and questions. The dictionary comes up with lists of related words, definitions, and a link ...more
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Designed with ESL students in mind, this dictionary allows students to type in phrases and questions. The dictionary comes up with lists of related words, definitions, and a link to other dictionaries. Although the list of definitions is extensive, the tool reminds the user that the first words found are the most useful.
tag(s): synonyms (15)
In the Classroom
Customize search results to meet your classroom needs! Make this site available in your Favorites for ESL/ELL students to access as needed.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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English Picture Dictionary - Heinle Newbury House Publishers
Grades
3 to 8
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Designed especially for the newby limited English speaker, this easy-to-use dictionary contains definitions in pictures and simple words ENL/ESL learners can understand. For example...more
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Designed especially for the newby limited English speaker, this easy-to-use dictionary contains definitions in pictures and simple words ENL/ESL learners can understand. For example click the word anatomy and find many, many pictures that represent the word, such as an ear, bone, foot, intestines, and so on. Use the site for English, French, German, Spanish, Chinese, and Russian.
tag(s): dictionaries (48), word study (58)
In the Classroom
A great dictionary to bookmark for your ESL learners on your classroom computer for handy reference anytime.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Critical Evaluation of Information - Kathy Schrock
Grades
3 to 12
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Kathy Schrock's Critical Evaluation of Information page is an outstanding resource for teaching media literacy, digital citizenship, and information evaluation skills in today's...more
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Kathy Schrock's Critical Evaluation of Information page is an outstanding resource for teaching media literacy, digital citizenship, and information evaluation skills in today's AI-driven world. The site provides free downloadable evaluation guides designed for elementary, middle, and high school students that help learners assess the credibility, accuracy, bias, currency, and reliability of websites, blogs, videos, podcasts, apps, and other digital resources. Teachers will also find sample websites for practicing evaluation skills, lesson ideas, and additional resources that support information literacy instruction. This collection is especially valuable for helping students become thoughtful consumers of online information and developing the critical thinking skills needed to navigate both traditional and AI-generated content.
tag(s): artificial intelligence (300), bias (33), brainstorming (19), evaluating sources (45)
In the Classroom
Create a "Fact or Fiction?" research challenge in which students compare information from multiple sources and justify which source is most reliable. Ask students to evaluate AI-generated responses, articles, or images using the same critical evaluation criteria provided on the site. Have students evaluate a website using one of Schrock's grade-level evaluation guides and determine whether the source is trustworthy.
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The Cook's Thesaurus
Grades
6 to 12
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This online encyclopedia provides definitions, pronunciations, descriptions, and uses for nearly every imaginable ingredient and kitchen tool - beyond the most basic - that students...more
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This online encyclopedia provides definitions, pronunciations, descriptions, and uses for nearly every imaginable ingredient and kitchen tool - beyond the most basic - that students may encounter in a cooking class. Viable substitutions are also discussed. Use this site as the basis for a recipe-specific Web hunt before turning them loose in the kitchen. Search by keyword or category.
tag(s): cooking (34)
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Search Engines
Grades
6 to 12
1 Favorites
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This handy tool helps clear up the search engine confusion. It clearly and simply matches research needs with appropriate online resources. Point your students to this site before starting...more
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This handy tool helps clear up the search engine confusion. It clearly and simply matches research needs with appropriate online resources. Point your students to this site before starting them on a research project.
tag(s): search engines (42)
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Citation Maker - Secondary - Oregon School Library Information System
Grades
6 to 12
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Secondary students will appreciate this user-friendly bibliography helper. They still have to do the work of collecting all of the necessary information, but after entering it into...more
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Secondary students will appreciate this user-friendly bibliography helper. They still have to do the work of collecting all of the necessary information, but after entering it into the site, a citation with correct MLA format and punctuation is created for them. The citations can then be copied and pasted into a word processing document.
tag(s): citations (34)
In the Classroom
Have a student demonstrate how to use this tool on a projector or interactive whiteboard. Share this link on your class web page for easy use any time students have a research project. Model ethical use of resources by using it yourself to cite sources on handouts, etc.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Word Central - Merriam Webster
Grades
5 to 12
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Enter the hallways of Word Central for an unforgettable online dictionary experience. In addition to finding correct spellings and definitions, you can look for the daily Buzz Word...more
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Enter the hallways of Word Central for an unforgettable online dictionary experience. In addition to finding correct spellings and definitions, you can look for the daily Buzz Word and listen to the pronunciation, or create poems in a snap with Verse Composer. Then walk up to the second floor to the Build Your Own Dictionary room and Computer Lab coding chamber.
tag(s): poetry (196)
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Rhyme Zone
Grades
4 to 12
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This site is much more than an on-line rhyming dictionary. Use it as a thesaurus, spell checker, or on-line source for all of Shakespeare's works. Other features include interactive...more
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This site is much more than an on-line rhyming dictionary. Use it as a thesaurus, spell checker, or on-line source for all of Shakespeare's works. Other features include interactive quizzes on a variety of topics (high-school level), thousands of searchable quotations and poems, and the complete texts of several famous documents.
tag(s): shakespeare (98), thesaurus (21)
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Ask a Librarian - Library of Congress
Grades
6 to 12
1 Favorites
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If your local library just can't help, try this online service that puts you in contact with Library of Congress research librarians. Live chats are available for some topics. Other...more
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If your local library just can't help, try this online service that puts you in contact with Library of Congress research librarians. Live chats are available for some topics. Other inquiries will receive a response within 5 days. Be sure to read the Reference Correspondence Policy at the bottom of the home page for directives on how this resource should be used. This is an "adult" reference tool, not a student's homework assistance hotline!
tag(s): resources (80)
In the Classroom
Have students use this as a resource while working on a research project. Just check with your school technology policies and make sure it's acceptable to use the live chat option.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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Copyright Terms and the Public Domain - Cornell University
Grades
1 to 12
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Knowing the specific rules about copyright terms can be a definite benefit when copying or scanning. This site provides a comprehensive and easy-to-navigate chart detailing when creative...more
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Knowing the specific rules about copyright terms can be a definite benefit when copying or scanning. This site provides a comprehensive and easy-to-navigate chart detailing when creative works enter the public domain in the United States. Designed for students and teachers across all grade levels, the platform clarifies the complexities of copyright law by breaking down expiration dates based on publication year and type of work. The main resource consists of a detailed table that covers everything from books and music to architectural drawings and unpublished manuscripts. It acts as a reliable guide for anyone looking to legally use, remix, or share historical materials without seeking permission or paying fees. By using this tool, you can quickly determine if a classic poem, a vintage photograph, or a historical recording is free to use in your next project.
tag(s): copyright (42)
In the Classroom
Integrate this resource into a media literacy or history lesson to help students understand the legal and ethical use of digital content. Start a research project where students identify historical figures or events and use the chart to find primary sources that are officially in the public domain. To engage learners in the creative process, have them curate these found materials into a digital presentation. Enhance the activity by using Gimkit, reviewed here to create a live, gamified review that tests their ability to identify public-domain status across different scenarios from the chart. To extend the learning, have students use Mentimeter, reviewed here to participate in a real-time word cloud or poll where they reflect on why protecting intellectual property matters while still celebrating the freedom of the public domain.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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New York Public Library's Digital Library Collection - New York Public Library
Grades
6 to 12
1 Favorites
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Explore images, documents, and rare materials in this impressive collection of on-line archives. Search for a specific topic of interest by using the Digital Collection search, tour...more
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Explore images, documents, and rare materials in this impressive collection of on-line archives. Search for a specific topic of interest by using the Digital Collection search, tour the many on-line exhibitions that cover a wide range of topics by scrolling down the page ro find themes ranging from Recently Digitized and Updated Collections, Nature Collections, Fashion Collections, and several others. Use for your own background research or as a resource for your students.
tag(s): images (266), primary sources (134)
In the Classroom
Use this site to search for images that can be used in your classroom for a visual discovery activity. Select 3-5 of the more powerful images, placing them on separate slides of a PowerPoint show. Show each slide to the class for 1-2 minutes each, allowing students time to jot down what they observe, predict and infer about each image. After the class has finished with the slides, have a class discussion based on the notes that students took accompanying a replaying of the slide show. This is a great way to introduce or review a topic in a non-lecture format.Add your comments below (available only to members) | Become a Member
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