Frequently making QR codes or sharing links in your classroom? This will save you time!

Google Chrome is a great browser to use because there are many tools you can add to make life easier. Here's an extension (tool) you can set up once and have it at the ready at the top of your browser any time you need it.

It's called ShortenMe. It adds a one-click way to get a shortened URL and/or QR code to link to whatever website you're currently viewing. That makes it faster and easier to share a website quickly with students.

QR codes and shortened URLs (links) automatically appear right in your Chrome Browser!

Set up

You first need to login to Chrome. If you have not already logged in, your district gmail account may have automatically connected. Otherwise, you can sign in with your district account. Click the three lines button (what I've heard is referred to as the "pancakes" to get to the menu to sign in or check if you're signed in.)

Next, go to the Chrome Web Store at this link to add the free ShortenMe extension.

ShortenMe will now appear as three dots in a horizontal line in the top right. Click it once, and that's all you need to do!

Chrome Bonus: Sign into your account in Chrome on any computer and you get any extensions or other tools you have already added on another computer automatically.

Text to Speech Feature on the iPad

The iPads have the capability to read selected text to students, mainly in Safari but also a handful of other apps. This might be helpful for students learning to read, difficulties with reading, etc. and can be turned on and off.

I quickly put together a short video showing how to turn this setting on and what it looks like in action. 

I forgot one step to turn on this setting in the video, so this is the order: Settings > General > Accessibility > Speak Selection.

Also, this video was recorded in the Touchcast app, an amazing, free app you can try out on your teacher iPad!