Google Slides is a versatile tool that can enhance a variety of documents created for the school library.  I use it for almost everything–library newsletters, tutorials, handouts, images, and gifs. Google Slides provides a flexible canvas compared to using Google Docs and allows users to easily embed into websites.

Google Slides has add-ons, additional features that can be added individually, that enhance the usability for many purposes.

To access Google Add-Ons, open Google Slides, and choose Add-Ons from the menu. Click Get Add-Ons. Browse hundreds of options or search by keyword or title of the add-on.

Image Add-Ons

For image add-ons, check out the following:

• Icons by Noun Project: Noun Project provides access to thousands of icons. Users can easily search this site and add to any slide.
• Insert Icons for Slides: Insert Icons offers access to thousands of Font Awesome and Google Material Design icons. Users can also change the color and add to Slides.
• Unsplash Images: Unsplash Images provides access to images that are free to use.

GIF Creator

To create Gifs, check out the following:

• Slide-Slide-Gif: This option enables users to convert slides into Gifs. It’s helpful for showing how to use new technology.
• Bjorn’s GIF-maker:  This option also enables users to convert slides into Gifs. It requires a subscription after 7 days.

Interactive

For interactive add-ons, check out these options:

• Slido: With this option you can create polls and surveys for participants.
• Pear Deck Add-OnL If you utilize the interactive tool, Pear Deck, then this add-on improves the use of the tool.
• Nearpod Add-On: Nearpod is an interactive instructional tool like Pear Deck. Use the Add-On to easily create and use Nearpod.

What other add-ons do you use in Google Slides?

Author: Becca Munson

Becca Munson, Librarian, is a National Board Certified Teacher with over 24 years of experience in education. Becca is the Coordinator for Library Systems in the Blue Valley School District. Previously, she was school librarian at Blue Valley West High School. She opened two buildings in Blue Valley and spent some time as an Ed Tech Specialist before returning to libraries. Becca supports over 45 librarians and support staff as they work to fulfill the mission of flexible scheduling, collaboration, and literacy.

Categories: Blog Topics, Technology

Tags: add on, educational technology, Google Slides, Google Slides add on