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Inspiration in the Classroom

Inspiration is a flexible tool primarily used for creating thought webs. Because it is very versatile and very easy to use, creative teachers have developed many lessons that go beyond simple thought webs. Inspiration's biggest strengths are its speed and simplicity. Inspiration has versions for Mac or Windows, available for download for a free 30 day trial at their website.

• What is the difference between Inpiration and Kidspiration?
  • They are very similar. Ostensibly, Kidspiration is designed for younger kids. It is arguably more visual/graphical and it doesn't include some of the more advanced features of Inspiration. Kidspiration is recommended for primary classes, K - 2, and Inspiration is recommended for anyone older.

• How can I use Inspiration in the classroom?
  • Here's a list of starter ideas, but it's by no means exhaustive:
    • Character webs
    • Plot summaries
    • Book reports
    • Matching activities
    • Sorting activities (word sorts, picture sorts, etc.)
    • Brainstorming (whole class, small group, or individual)
    • Note taking
    • Story maps
    • Pre-writing
    • Organizational charts

The Inspiration website is loaded with ideas and lesson plans.

Here is a link to a website that has a lot of templates for Inspiration documents.