Videos
My boys love to use the video camera! So when it comes to unit studies what could be better than adding video to your digital lapbooks.
Here are a few ideas:
- combine video with still photos and talking to make history "documentaries"
- use digital photos, maps, and an audio commentary to create a travel brochure for a country
- create a "how to" video that teaches something you've learned
Downloadable Video Editors
Microsoft Movie Maker
This is a free video editing software from Microsoft. It is simple to use and my kids figured it out quickly. You can add in an audio track, music, still pictures, titles, text and more.
Here is an example of a video my kids did on Andrew Jackson.
Online Video Editors with Hosting
Jumpcut
This is a free, easy to use (but basic) video editor with free hosting.
Video Hosting
YouTube
I do not recommend letting kids on to YouTube unsupervised! But moms can upload the videos here for free and then embed them into a blog or web page.
You can also embed any YouTube video on the unit study subject into your digital lapbook. Once you've searched for and found videos on your subject, just look for the "embed" code and cut and paste it into your lapbook site.
Screen Play Writing
Celtx
This is a free, downloadable software for creating screenplays. It's a great way to combine writing, planning, and creative thinking skills.