Google Drawings: A Google Drive Application!

Free!

Google Drawings allows users to create diagrams, charts, images, figures and more! To begin, users must log into their Google Drive account and then launch Google Drawings. At this point, users can click the “Untitled Drawing” text on the top left of the screen to title their drawing. Next, they can begin adding content to the drawing with the tools located on the menu bar.

Both the “Line” and “Shape” icons allow users to add a piece of content into their drawing. Users will first have to click the line or shape they wish to add and then click on their drawing where they want to the content added and drag it to adjust the size.

If users wish to add text, they can click the “Text Box” option and then click into the drawing where they wish the text box to appear before adjusting its size by dragging it into place. Once placed, users can add text by typing into the textbox. After a textbox is placed and initial text has been added, users can click back into the textbox to add/revise the text.

To insert a picture, users can click the “Image” icon and choose the image they wish to add. Users can upload the image from their computer, Google Drive, take a picture of themselves, or search for one online, and all these options can be completed with the image tool. Once an image has been added, users can click it to adjust its size; crop its dimensions; and modify its transparency, brightness, and contrast.

Once any content has been added, users can add borders, modify line thickness, rotate it, and more. To do so, users will need to click the content and choose the options they wish to modify from the menu.

In addition, users are able to add a chart, arrange content, insert comments, and share their drawing using the different options available in Google Drawings.

Instructional Ideas for Google Drawings

1. After reading a text, teachers can have students illustrate a key happening, character, or theme from the text using this website. In addition, students can click the “Comments” option to offer a rationale that explains certain aspects of their drawing.
2. To display data, theories, or an idea, students can use this website to create an infographic, diagram, or chart that explains the pertinent information. When finished, students can share it by posting a link to on a classroom website, and students in that class can then view the different works and add comments in response.
3. When studying a specific historical period, students can import an image into this website that represents that period. Students can then add textboxes and/or comments that offer specific information about that time period, and students can locate information to their work using various reference and encyclopedic materials. When finished, students can share their work by posting a link to it on a class website, so other students can view and comment on their work.
4. When conducting a scientific experiment, students can take pictures of the experiment during its different stages and organize the pictures into a progression using this website. Students can then add commentary that explains what is happening in the experiment’s different stages and, if appropriate, they can add a chart detailing the data they gathered during the experiment. To conclude it, students can add brief commentary that explains the relevancy of the experiment before sharing it on a class website.
5. When creating a presentation, students can create images and content for it using this website and then insert it into the presentation.

Screenshots of Google Drawings

Google Drawings