Top Tech Tools for Homeschool High Schoolers with Meryl van der Merwe

The Homeschool Highschool Podcast

This week on Homeschool Highschool Podcast: Top Tech Tools for Homeschool High Schoolers with Meryl van der Merwe.

Top Tech Tools for Homeschool High Schoolers with Meryl van der Merwe

If you are looking for something to enhance the homeschool experience for high school students, there is a range of tools and resources available. From technology and career preparation to organization and community service, these tools can help students thrive academically and beyond. Here, we want to dive right into the top tech tools with our friend, Meryl van der Merwe, fellow podcaster at Homeschooling With Technology as well as owner of Funda Funda Academy. So, let’s dive in and explore the exciting world of homeschooling with technology!

BTW- Meryl has shared her wisdom with Homeschool Highschool Podcast several times. If you have missed them, check these episodes:

• Helping Teens Own Their Education
• Choosing Elective Credits for Homeschool High School
• Tech Skills for Teens

About Meryl van der Merwe

Originally from South Africa, Meryl moved to the United States 20 years ago and decided to homeschool her children due to their advanced academic abilities.

Meryl’s passion for teaching led her to start teaching online and eventually establish Funda Funda Academy, where she and a team of teachers offer a wide range of online classes.

On top of Funda Funda Academy, Meryl ventured into podcasting and connected with Vicki, our very own 7Sisters Homeschooler, through the Ultimate Homeschool Podcast network, their shared podcasting network.

Merrill’s amazing podcast is called Homeschooling with Technology. If you are looking for resources on the best technology for homeschooling, this is the podcast you don’t want to miss.

Favorite Top Tech Tools for Homeschool

Let’s talk about some of the best technology for homeschooling you can use that happens to be Meryl’s favorite top tech tools that she encourages you to check out.

Grammarly

First up is Grammarly. Grammarly is a free app that helps with grammar and spelling. It’s like having a personal editor that highlights any mistakes you make. Good grammar is important for high school writing requirements.

It is incredibly helpful, especially when writing essays or any other written work. Trust me, your teens will thank you for introducing them to Grammarly.

Vocabulary.com

Next on the list is Vocabulary.com. This is another free tool that is fantastic for building vocabulary. It is essential for understanding what you read and improving your writing skills.

Plus, having a strong vocabulary is crucial for standardized tests like the ACT and SAT. And here is a little secret: even though many colleges are going test-optional, scholarships still require test scores.

It’s important to help your children develop a robust vocabulary and thanks to Vocabulary.com, it becomes a fun and engaging process!

Google Apps

You are probably familiar with the Google apps, but let’s emphasize their importance. Many college students use these apps for group work and collaboration.

It’s essential for your children to be familiar with Google Docs, Slides, Sheets, and Forms. They are free and incredibly useful for organizing and working together on projects.

Canva

Another tool beloved by Meryl is Canva. It’s like the one tool to rule them all when it comes to graphic design!

Canva started as a simple tool for creating graphics, but it has grown into a powerful platform with features for photo editing, video creation, and even comic strip design. It is free and user-friendly, making it perfect for creating portfolios, marketing materials, and more.

Not only that, but it also has thousands upon thousands of templates, including but not limited to, business cards, presentations, videos, worksheets, printable activities, planners and schedules, and much more.

It also includes a print-on-demand feature for, say, creating and ordering invitations, business cards, flyers, or even prints on a t-shirt!

ChatGPT and AI Tools

AI may be somewhat intimidating for some but it really is here to stay. Instead of fearing it, try to embrace it and its many capabilities.

One AI tool is ChatGPT. It can be used for brainstorming ideas, improving essays, and even generating content.

Even so, it’s important to teach your children to use AI responsibly and not rely on it entirely. AI is a tool, not a replacement for critical thinking and creativity.

Online Services

The first online service opportunity is Zooniverse.org, where kids can participate in citizen science projects. This allows them to contribute to real scientific research while learning about various topics.

The second online service opportunity is a platform within the Library of Congress site called By The People, which allows volunteers to transcribe historical documents. It’s a fantastic opportunity for kids to learn about history and gain valuable experience while also making a difference.

Top Tech Tools With Meryl van der Merwe

These are just a few highlights, and there are countless other tools and resources out there. Children should be encouraged to use these tools responsibly and with a discerning eye, always keeping in mind that their contributions and actions can have a real impact.

Technology can truly enhance your homeschooling experience and prepare your children for the future. Don’t be afraid to explore and try new things. You’re not alone on this journey. We’re here to support and guide you every step of the way.

Connect With Meryl van der Merwe

If you want more in-depth information on the top tech tools for homeschooling, be sure to listen to the Homeschooling with Technology podcast.

You can also visit her website, Funda Funda Academy, or join her Homeschooling College Bound Teens Facebook group.

Thank you to Seth Tillman for editing this podcast and to Richie Soares with Homeschool & Humor for writing this blog post!

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