Google Extensions for Teachers

Being a self-proclaimed Google-phile, I was excited to learn about Extensions for Google Chrome. My first question: What in the world is the difference between an App and an Extension? Think of an Extension as a small part of an app that makes it work that much harder and more efficiently for you. 

And a shout-out to my colleague Scott for showing us this huge aspect of Google's offerings at today's Institute Day!

If you're looking for a place to start, here are 7 Google Extensions to install in your Google Chrome browser*:

1. Save to Google Drive

If you're looking at a website, pdf, image, or video, use this extension to save it to your Google Drive. Then, click the link that pops up to go directly to the document.


2. goo.gl URL Shortener

To quickly shorten a URL to send out or to easily generate a QR code, navigate to the website and click on this extensions in your toolbar. You'll have the option to copy the shortened URL or generate a QR code that you can then print or project to your students to instantly use.


3. Print Friendly & PDF

Tired of printing websites with adds, links, and unnecessary page elements? This extension generates a .pdf that you can go through and delete elements or text you don't want students to see. From there, save the .pdf to post or distribute electronically.


4. Webpage Screenshot

Here's an extension that allows you to take screenshots of an entire webpage or just the content that is visible in a window. It will immediately open in a new tab - from there, you can save, annotate, edit, and share the screenshot from that tab.


5. EasyBib Tools

This is a powerful tool that will help students learn to properly cite and evaluate sources. While visiting a website, you can find out how to cite the information and instantly find out if the source is credible, questionable, or if it has not yet been evaluated.


6. E-Mail This Page

Without having to copy and paste the hyperlink, use this extension to quickly send a webpage. Take a moment to choose if you want Gmail or your default mail server to send the e-mail before getting started.


7. Docs Quickly

With one click, you can open a new Google Doc, Presentation, Spreadsheet, or Drawing without typing in the address or opening a new tab - it is a simple extension but it will surprise you how efficient this makes your workflow.










* You have to be browsing in Google Chrome and you should also be signed in to Chrome. In order to do this, click on the three bar icon in the top right corner of Chrome and go through the sign-in process to fully customize Google Chrome to your preferences!