Draw.io

Free!

Draw.io provides users with a blank workspace they can use to design charts and take notes. To begin, users must open Draw.io and choose where they wish to save their work (e.g., Google Drive, Dropbox, OneDrive, or to their device). Next, Draw.io asks users to title their work, and it loads different templates users can select. If users do not wish to use a template, they can choose the blank option. At this point, users must click the “Create” button, and Draw.io loads their template or blank workspace. Users can then add information to it by clicking the “+” on the top row to select the type of content they wish to add (e.g., text, shapes, links, flow charts, tree charts, and more!). Depending on the content selected, Draw.io will either load it into the work area or offer a method for uploading or linking the content. As content is selected and added, users can manipulate it by clicking the content in the workspace and choosing different options, such as colors, resizing the content, or thickening or thinning lines. Depending on the content added, users can further manipulate it using advanced settings found in the “Edit” and “Arrange” options. When finished, users can save their work by choosing “save as” under the “File” menu and picking a location.

Instructional Ideas

1. When taking notes, students can add images, text, and links to them using this resource. If teachers wish to view students’ notes, teachers can have students share the notes with them via Google Drive or Dropbox.
2. When trying to explain a process or procedure, students can create a flow chart or tree diagram with this resource. The chart or diagram can combine text and images that explain the different steps or stages that are part of the process or procedure.
3. Teachers can assign students a topic, such as a literary movement, historical conflict, or notable person. In response, students can use this resource to create a timeline that chronicles what happened and when it happened during the movement, conflict, or life. Students can add a variety of images, text, and link to their timeline to better explain their topic.
4. Teachers can assign students a historical figure or memorable character. Students can then upload an image of that figure or character. Students can then add text and other images that describe or highlight the figure or character. When finished, students can link their work to a class website for other students to view.
5. Teachers can assign students a vocabulary word, term, or phrase and then have them create a drawing using this resource that represents it. When finished, students can post their work to a class website, so other students can view it.

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