SMARTBoards and the Animation Library

Here's a welcome site for teachers called the Animation Library that contains hundreds of animated image that can be used inside your Notebook lessons. These images are free to use and they are very easy to download. While the site is surrounded by ads, it's actually very easy to navigate and find the images you need. Just make sure you're downloading the actual image and not a thumbnail image. The site has plenty of information to help you download successfully.

I love using "gif" animated images when developing Notebook lessons. These images are usually very small and they can help teachers draw attention to information on the SMART Board. I've seen some very simple applications come to life as a result of a few well-placed animated images.

I've also seen some very good Notebook lessons become hindered by the use of too many animated images. It's very important to make sure the animated image relates to and enhances the information that you're displaying. For example, I love this animated image of the planet Earth, but it doesn't relate to the topic at hand.

When using animated "gif" images, I would recommend that you save the image to your computer first and then insert the image from the Insert Menu in Notebook. You can also drag-and-drop images directly into Notebook but I've had issues with the image not appearing as intended.

Once the Image is in Notebook, you can also add it to your My Content folder in the Gallery.

A quick shoutout to Obe at the SMARTBoard Revolution for sharing this great resource.

Sharing Is Caring!

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Comments

[Vicki Green]

James...thanks so much for the site...and to Obe as well. And thank you too for the very wise advice on the use of animated gifs. I've had teachers ask me for them and I was glad I didn't have a site that was useful on the SMART Board - I know how they can be overused! But advice coming from a SMART Board guru is so appreciated! Thank you again! Vicki

[Prudy Kedro]

Great advice and very useful. Love the versatility and wide variety. Thanks!