Wordle

http://www.wordle.net 

Main Features

Wordle is a website that allows you to create word clouds. You can type in/paste in as much text as you like and in a few clicks, you will have a word cloud made up of the text you inserted. You have some control over the way the text gets shaped, the color scheme, and there are a host of artsy fonts to choose from. All of the word clouds are posted in the website gallery. When you create the word cloud it gives you options to print or open it in a new window that you can too print from. You can also take a screen grab to capture your Wordle. The site also allows you to embed your word cloud into a blog or website. The down side is that you no longer have access to your Wordle on the website once you have left, unless you save the url.

Level of Difficulty 

Wordle is very easy to use. It contains a few advanced features for shaping your word cloud, but those are easy to use as well. The directions are very easy to follow. The most difficult part comes if you are trying to save. The amount of time spent creating your Wordle depends on how much text you type in or if you copy & paste, and how much you want to experiment trying to find the exact perfect layout/font/color scheme combination. It is very easy to get lost in it - so be warned.

Potential Application In the Classroom

Wordle has many applications in the classroom. It can be used in any content area and 3 grade and up. It is a great way to have students personalize notebooks. They can be used to introduce a topic, brainstorm, poetry, vocabulary, and any number of creative additions to reports and projects. Being creative with words can go a long way to getting students enthusiastic about writing. The longer the text, the bigger the word cloud. 

Conclusion


Wordle is definitely worth trying. It allows everyone to be an artist. Over are the days when students complain about drawing a picture for something. Wordle can be your alternative.