Setting up a Google Classroom for the new school year is easy! Follow these simple steps and your class will be set up in no time.
1. Visit the Google Classroom Website
Head to classroom.google.com and make sure you are logged in to your teaching account.
2. Create A Class
Next, you’ll want to click create a class in the top right-hand corner. Click on the plus sign, then “create class.”
Below is what pops up.
3. Enter Class Information
The only required information is the class name. The additional information is optional.
When setting up a Google Classroom creating your classes is an important step in keeping it organized. It’s helpful to break down your Google Classrooms into each class if you are a self-contained elementary teacher. For example, have a classroom for math, science, reading, writing, social studies, etc. This will ensure that your Google Classroom will be neater with each assignment in the correct place. You can also create a homeroom when setting up your Google Classroom to store important information.
4. Add Students to your Google Classroom
There are two ways to add students to the class. You can either email them an invitation or share the class code.
To enter a class using the class code direct your students to classroom.google.com and have them click join a class. There they will enter the class code.
If you want to invite students via email click on the “people” tab at the top of the class page.
On this page, you have the option to add teachers and students.
Next to students click the add symbol and enter the email addresses of your students.
This sends an email to your students where they can join.
Why Should I be Setting up a Google Classroom?
In today’s digital age, integrating technology into the classroom is more important than ever. One of the easiest ways to streamline your teaching and enhance communication with students and parents is by setting up a Google Classroom. Here’s why it’s a game-changer for elementary teachers:
- Organized Assignments: Google Classroom allows you to post assignments, quizzes, and learning materials all in one place. Students can easily access and submit their work, helping them stay organized while reducing paper clutter.
- Instant Feedback: Teachers can provide real-time feedback on assignments, ensuring students understand concepts before moving on. With instant grading for quizzes and forms, it saves time and helps track progress.
- Parental Involvement: Parents can be invited to receive regular updates on their child’s work and progress. This keeps them engaged and informed about what’s happening in the classroom.
- Collaboration Made Easy: Google Classroom encourages collaboration. Students can work together on projects, share ideas, and participate in group discussions—all within a safe, teacher-moderated space.
- Easy Integration with Google Tools: With seamless integration with Google Docs, Slides, and Sheets, students can work on and submit assignments directly from these tools. It also promotes digital literacy skills from an early age.
By setting up a Google Classroom, you’re not only keeping your students organized but also creating a more interactive and efficient learning environment. It’s a valuable tool to prepare students for the future while supporting your daily teaching efforts!
Setting Up a Google Classroom for the New School Year is an important step if you plan on using it in your classroom! There are so many great ways to use it in schools. I wrote a blog post on using digital choice boards. These are the perfect additions to your Google Classroom. Another important thing you can do to make your life easier is to create a demo student. This is extremely helpful when showing your students how to navigate the site!
