How To Lesson Plan With Google Keep

Google Keep is one of those apps that could be used for almost anything.  It’s a note taking app, it’s a to-do list app, it’s a place to store pictures for later use, it’s a drawing app, it’s a reminder app, and the mobile version allows for voice memos.  Needless to say, it’s a very versatile app, and, it’s all part of G Suite for Education!  Keep is right alongside Google’s more popular Docs, Sheets, and Slides apps.  Another reason why Keep is pretty cool is that it’s everywhere!  That’s right, no matter the device it will be with you.  You can sign in from your PC, Macbook, iOS device, or Android device.  

Of course, you can use it for all of the above, but did you know it’s great for creating lesson plans? You can write your plans from scratch into a note or upload an old lesson plan that you plan to use.  If you plan on using a handout for your students, simply upload it via the “add image” button.  Along with creating lesson plans, it helps keep those plans organized using color coding and labels.  Labeling the notes is important so when you click on the label, all of the notes that pertain to that particular label will be displayed.

Have you ever needed or wanted to share a lesson plan with another teacher or administrator?  Of course, you have--we all have!  That’s where another great aspect of Keep comes in.  Instead of printing out a copy or your lesson plan or photocopying your lesson, simply click the share button on your note and type in the email address of the person you wish to share the lesson plan with.  It’s that easy!

Here’s how to keep your lesson plans organized in Google Keep:

1. Create a note with the title of the name of your class.  Choose a color for the note.  Then, create a tag for the note.  For example, if the class is World History, create a tag titled World History.

2. Repeat for each class that you teach.  Make sure to choose a separate color for each class.

3. I think it’s easier if Keep is in Grid view.  If you only have one or two classes, then the list view will be fine.

4. The title of each subsequent note will be the date.

5. Color code the note according to the class.

6. Include the label of the appropriate class.  Again, clicking the label will display all of the notes with that label. 

With each lesson plan that you create, simply drag it under the title of the class.

And that’s it!  Along with using the customary Google apps in the classroom, Google Keep can help you stay organized with your classes.