FTT - Google Read and Write

And The Winner Is...

Read&Write For Google Chrome!

@LisaBerghoff/@MrKimDHS

As we get to know our students, one thing is very clear. This year is far from "normal". We are still dealing with a pandemic and we have students in our building who were not physically in school, some for all of last school year. This brings a whole new set of challenges as well as opportunities to help students learn. 

As our buildings do a deep dive into the world of MTSS (multi-tiered system of supports) in order to use data to help our students succeed, it is important to look at the tools that we have at our disposal. A few weeks ago I posted about the premium versions of software systems that we have for our use. Google Read&Write made that list and I know many of you have heard of it or maybe even tried using it in the past, but I believe that it warrants its own post because this is a powerful option that is available to ALL of our students, making it an excellent tier 1 intervention option. 

What is Read&Write For Google Chrome?

This is a chrome extension that works when you are using the chrome browser. Our students already have it automatically added to their accounts. Yes, it will work on their chromebooks, but it will also work on any device they are using as long as they are logged into their chrome account. 

In order to find it, you may need to click the gray puzzle piece in the extensions bar.
 

The extension also looks like a puzzle piece but it's purple. 

I encourage students to click the pin so it shows up in their extensions bar without needing to click on anything else.

What Does It Do?

This extension is so powerful, because we have the premium version, and it has lots of really useful features. When you click on the extension you will see the toolbar. Here is a rundown of the features as they are shown from left to right. 

• Check It- Reviews writing for incorrect grammar, spelling, capitalization, punctuation, verb tense and more.
• Word Prediction: Gives suggestions based on what you have written.
• Dictionary: Offers clarification and definitions of words as you type or highlight.
• Picture Dictionary: Offers meaning in a visual format.
• Text To Speech: Hear documents and web pages read aloud, with highlighting as it is read. 
• Pause and Stop: Students control what text is read and when it is read to them.
• Screenshot Reader: Will OCR (optical character recognition) and read aloud a selection from a document or webpage that may not be recognized by other readers.
• Audio-Maker- Converts selected text into an audio file and downloads automatically.
• Web-Search- Looks up highlighted text without the need to open a new window.
• Screen Mask- Website or document reading tool that moves with your cursor to eliminate distractions and eye strain. (one of my favorites!)
• Talk and Type- Turns the spoken word into text.
• Translate- Will translate into a language of your choice.
• Highlighting Tools-Enables students to color code highlights on digital text.
• Highlight Clear- Removes highlights. 
• Collect Highlights- Takes the highlights and creates a new document with only the highlighted text.
• Vocabulary List- Creates a list instantly into a new doc, including selected words, the dictionary definition, images, and an editable notes column.
• Voice Note- Allows students to insert short recordings of their voice
• Practice Reading Allowed- Let's students practice their out loud reading and gives them feedback.

Also, here is a quick reference guide. Feel free to share it with students!

If you want to see more, here is a video playlist showing each feature.

 

When Should Read&Write For Google Chrome Be Used?

There are so many features that at first glance it can seem overwhelming. When I show this to students I usually ask them to choose just two or three to get started. Once they are comfortable, they can play around and try out more. The beauty of this extension is that the learner, who may be struggling, is in control. This is a rare situation and should not be overlooked. To show this to students and let them know that they can be part of the decision making process for when they use it can be very powerful. I encourage students to have the toolbar open whenever they are reading or writing online. 

How Do I Use Read & Write For Google Chrome?

All you and your students need to do is click on the extension. It will work if you are on Google docs, or any online text. That's it!

Want some help? Let us know. We're happy to give some assistance and hope you let your students know they have this tool right at their fingertips.