I often use web screenshots when creating online activities for younger students. A thumbnail shot gives students a preview image they can click on to go to a link. I have found that thumbnail images that serve as a hyper link are easier for younger students to click on than hyper linked text. In the past the process I used to create my thumbnail screen shots was tedious and time-consuming (print screen, open Photoshop, crop the image, resize, and save). The thumbnail generator I am sharing today will save you (and me) scads of time! Check them out!

Thumbizy was one of my favorite thumbnail generators (to date). I have included a mini tutorial image below. You do not need to register to use the generator and the images were clear and more complete than some of the other generators I tested.

Kwout is another screenshot service that offers simple, easy to use screen shot functionality. You do need to install and use a Kwout bookmarklet to use this tool, but it is easy to use and very customizable. Below, you will see a screenshot of the bookmarklet and the sample Kwout customization page that appears when you click on the bookmarklet.

Other sites that offer free thumb nail generation include….

• Thumboo – registration and confirmation is required. The generator is intuitive, but customization is limited.
• Bitpixels – not registration required, simple interface, no customization

I couldn’t resist a second Halloween posting once I discovered that Jib Jab (one of my favorite sites) now offers opportunities for you (or students) to take on movie roles. Check out my sample below and Happy Halloween!