Word Cloud in Google

Excellence in Education, Tech Tip: Creating a Word Cloud in Google Docs

Word clouds have numerous uses, especially when used in conjunction with Google Docs. First, some possible uses; then how you can easily create Word Clouds in Google Docs.

Possible Uses

• Use for writing assessments to see which words they have used frequently in their writing and challenge them to develop synonyms
• As a pre-writing or post-writing strategy have students brainstorm/jot down words that they are trying to convey in their writing and then have them use the word cloud to see if they did so
• Word clouds can prime the brain by having students collaboratively brainstorm words that they think are relevant to the topic of learning. This cloud can then be examined later after the unit of study (perhaps, by creating another word cloud and comparing/contrasting the two clouds).
• Have students create lists of characteristics of someone they are studying or reading about. Documents can be combined and a word cloud can be created and this can lead to a meaningful classroom discussion.Copy several students writing docs into one Doc to create a word cloud. Then compare/contrast and discuss the differences.
• Create a group cloud in reaction to a discussion, a reading, a lesson, etc. Students can work individually or collaboratively to create a list of 20 or so words that can then be used to create a word cloud.

How to Add the Word Cloud Generator Add On

1. In Google Docs, select Add-ons > Get Add-Ons.
2. In the search box type, “Word Cloud Generator.”
3. Select Word Cloud and click “FREE.” You will then be prompted to allow it to install.
4. Once it’s installed, click “Add-ons” and “Create Word Cloud”
5. You can continually click the “Refresh” button to update your word cloud.
6. Play around with the advanced features.

Another option is to create a Google Form and then use AutoCrat (another Add-On) to convert the form into a Doc, which you can then create a Word Cloud From.

What are some uses for Word Clouds that you can add to the list?

Need to Knows

Positive Referral Link : http://go.shr.lc/1XRoeub

Technology / Website Permission Request Form http://go.shr.lc/1HovEA6

Calendar Items

November 30’s #vachat (8et) : Teacher Leadership

December 3: 1st Period, Students Complete Tech Form (more on this later)

December 12: Holiday Social  http://evite.me/1QtpvDs3ff

Birthdays

December 2: Cheryl Cottrell, Gail Epps

December 3: Roxanne Muniz

December 4: Matt Pearman

Worth Your Time

The Maker Movement Isn’t About 3-D Printing or STEM or Building Things...

How the Brain Pays Attention

16 Books About Learning that Every Teacher Should Read ….What Would You Add? Possible PD/Book Talks?