Free Educational Websites and Games for Elementary School Students

Nobody doubts that the Internet became a very important presence in our lives: think of all the time spent on surfing, downloading, buying, chatting – the list can go on. Elementary school students are no exception. Today the Internet provides them with entertaining possibilities that were not available only a few years ago. Numerous games offer many hours of fun, often at the expense of the time necessary for homework. Is there an alternative?

Fortunately for parents and educators there are many free educational websites that expand knowledge, develop skills and entertain at the same time. With their number constantly growing, how one can decide which websites will serve students’ needs best?

Several well known educational sites constantly research and review new websites: Blue Web’n (http://www.kn.pacbell.com/wired/bluewebn/) is one of them. It is a library of “Blue Ribbon learning sites on the Web” which is arranged by subject, grade level, and format, including lessons, tutorials, and activities available). These sites are selected by a panel of teachers with degree in education or library science, and with many years of experience. To subscribe for the weekly updates, send e-mail to bluewebn-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Another good source of information about free educational websites is Kathy Schrock's Guide for Educators (http://school.discovery.com/schrockguide/). The subscriber receives regularly updates. The site includes Curriculum center, Homework helpers, and Kathy Schrock’s Guide for Educators arranged by the subject and provided with various search tools. Kathy Schrock is a well-known educator and promoter of technology integration in schools.

I would like to review some of the best educational websites by grade-level and subject, making it easier to follow.


Kindergarten through Grade 2

Reading and Writing