QR Craze

Quick Response codes, commonly shortened QR, are similar to barcodes.   Information on a barcode can only be stored (and scanned) from side to side.   QR codes, however, are like a small block and can store information up/down AND side/side, meaning you can pack a lot more information into their small little space.  QR codes are wonderful (and quick) self-checking tools to use in centers and for individual or whole class instruction!

CODE:
All you need is a code and a scanner to get started.  You can create them on the web as simply as typing into a box and hitting enter... and voila!  There are a variety of different websites out there if you google search "QR generator."  My favorite site is delivr.com/QR-Code-Generator.  It is pretty straight forward and easy to navigate.  I'll use this site to show you how...

Step 1: Go to the Delivr website

Step 2: Change Code Type to Text

You can program lots of different QR codes, but the one you'll probably use the most is just a Text one.  You can make it "say" whatever you want!

Step 3: Type your text and click Generate QR Code

Type in the box and generate your code.  As easy as that!

Step 4: Save your QR code as a JPG to copy, paste, and print it.

Your computer will save it in a different program that will be able to open your QR code.  You can usually go to the Edit menu, Select All, Copy, and then paste it in Word.

SCANNER:
Use a QR reader app on your iDevice to scan the codes (Qrafter is my favorite and is probably loaded on your WJG iPads already).

ACTIVITIES:

• Quiz-quiz trade cards can be created and children scan to find the right answer.  EOG type questions can be placed on one side of the card and when the children scan the code on the back, they'll not only get the right answer, but you can program it to say step-by-step instructions for finding the correct answer.  These self-checking type activities would be especially useful for independent early finisher type activities or small group.

• Fan-N-Pick mat can be redesigned to include a "Scan, Check & Praise" corner.  Used just like the Kagan Fan-N-Pick, but add QR answers on the back of quiz-quiz trade cards to create a self-checking center.

• When I require children to do a specific website or want them to watch a certain web-based video (those have the longest most confusing web addresses), I create a QR code using the web address of that particular site and display it through my projector.  Children point their devices at the board and scan (it even works from the back of the room).  Website based centers get started quickly with no confusion!  

• Create codes for commonly used classroom websites, laminate them, and attach them to a ring.  Keep it in a central location and allow the children access to it when needed.

• http://qrvoice.net/ is a cool new website that turns your text into audio.  When the kids scan the code, an automated voice reads whatever you programmed it to say.  I've read about an activity where the teacher created sight word audio QR codes for a kindergarten class.  In small groups, the children played bingo using the cards.  

  

  Scan to try it out!  It creates a web address with your text on it, so you will just need to Open your URL to hear it :)

• You can create website scavenger hunts using QRs.  
• Place QRs in important places around the school (office, nurse, cafeteria) and give new students "a QR tour" of the school.  
• My kids have created their own codes in the computer lab with creative smilies and metaphors.  The children had a blast traveling from desk to desk scanning each others work.  
• Teachers Pay Teachers has TONS of different QR activities that are engaging (and all the work is already done).  

The possibilities are endless :)