How to Use Podcasts in the Classroom
At Tinkercast, we have created a comprehensive and FREE learning tool, TinkerClass, that combines the joy of listening to podcasts with the wonder of tinkering with new ideas. From space and dinosaurs to science, engineering, ELA, social studies, and the mysteries of history, our podcasts are aligned to what you are teaching in your classroom and will make your students say “Wow!
How Can I Use Podcasts in my Classroom?
1. Start With LISTEN
Student listeners can comprehend 2-3 grade levels higher than their reading level.
Common Core State Standards now include listening comprehension guidelines starting in kindergarten.
Our K-5 podcasts make kids laugh while they learn and are AD-FREE for classrooms.
Wow in the World
Wow In The World episodes are NGSS-aligned “cartoons for the ear” about 15 minutes long. Associated podjects invite students to think, investigate, and present Wow findings like scientists and engineers while building 21st century skills.
Subject Area: Earth Science, Engineering & Technology, Life Science, Physical Science
Two Whats?! And A Wow!
Play our science-based game show! Every episode has three rounds less than 5 minutes each. Perfect for brain breaks, early finishers, snack time, and more! Students can then do a STEAM-themed activity or host their own game show!
Subject Area: Earth Science, Engineering & Technology, Life Science, Physical Science
Who, When, Wow!
Explore the mysteries of history with 20-minute episodes perfect for ELA, social studies, and history lessons. Podjects invite students to question and investigate like detectives with eight ready-made activities — or make their own Top Secret Podcast.
Subject Area: Social Science, History, ELA, Media Literacy
2. Add Podject-Based Learning
Train students to be the thinkers and tinkerers of tomorrow with ready-made project templates that guide them through these simple design thinking principles and build 21st skills. Tailor your lesson plan with any or all of these steps, crafted to work together or stand alone.
Wonder
TinkerClass carves out space for creative innovation as students reflect on what they heard and record all the Wows and Wonders the episode sparked.
Tinker
Students use critical thinking to sort their Wows and Wonders, identify questions they might be able to answer, and choose “One Big Wonder” to investigate.
Make
Students create, collaborate, and build confidence as they plan, investigate, and ultimately make their own or ready-made projects individually or in groups.
3. Share Your Results!
Show us what you’ve got, teachers! Submit audio, video, or photos of your student work and show off how you’ve been using Tinkerclass in your classroom. We’re sure to say, “WOW!”
Ready to bring podcasts to your classroom?
Learn all about the benefits of using podcasts in the classroom and explore our comprehensive curriculum collections to explore all of our podcasts by subject! Our mission Tinkercast is to seamlessly combine curriculum aligned content into engaging podcasts and podjects that make your students say, “WOW!”