Top 5 Google Chrome Extensions for Teaches & Students

One of the many things that set Google Chrome apart from other browsers is the use of Google Chrome extensions. These extensions are easy to install, free (some can be upgraded with a fee), and can be powerful tools to help you and your students get more done. Here are my top five picks for both teachers and students.

We also did a YouTube video on this topic. You can watch it below.

Top 5 Google Chrome Extensions for Teachers & Students

Grammarly - Grammarly is spell check on steroids and a must-have for everyone. Not only does it check spelling mistakes, but also frequent grammar errors. I also think it is more accurate than the spelling/grammar checkers included with Microsoft Word or Google Docs. When you have it turned on it works on almost every website (including social media platforms) and inside Google Docs. We all make mistakes while we are typing, and Grammarly helps us avoid embarrassing ones. (I am using it right now while writing this blog.)
Instant Dictionary - Instant Dictionary is simple to use and works with any website. Users only have to double click on a word and it pulls up definitions and synonyms for that word.
Texthelp PDF Reader - This extension works with Google Drive and provides a toolbar that allows users to highlight and make notes on PDF files. It also has the capability to read the article aloud to students.
Save to Drive/Save to Keep - This is a twofer because I couldn't pick one and they serve a similar function. If you come across a website that you want to save these two extensions make it easy. Save to Drive allows you to save the website as an image, HTML source, or Google Doc to your Drive for easy access later. Save to Keep saves a link to the website and gives you a place to make notes about why you saved it. Keep also makes it easier for you to share the link with team members.

5. Screencastify - Screencastify has been a game-changer for me in recent months. This extension allows users to easily film themselves and/or their desktops to make quick easy to share videos. You can read more about how I have used Screencasitfy here.

What Chrome Extensions do you think every teacher and student should have? Please let us know in the comments.

I will be presenting during the ELA Success Summit on August 4th - 6th. This is a digital summit that you can attend from the comfort of your own home. To enroll or learn more about the sessions you can go to https://www.elasuccesssummit.com/

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