Google Drive offers an unparalleled set of free web-based, desktop, and mobile apps for students and teachers. The free version provides 15GB of secure storage space, as of this writing. Free registration is required, using a gmail account. Content is automatically saved as you work. Some of the most useful apps:

• Google Docs – a word processor for writing papers for classes.
• Google Sheets – a spreadsheet app for data and charts.
• Google Slides – a presentation app.
• Google Forms – for students surveys, assignments responses, and many more classroom uses.
• Google Drawings – a simple image creator and editor. Use it to create graphic organizers, annotate drawing, and more.
• Google My Maps – create customized maps for class projects.
• Google Sites – create a classroom website with a minimum of fuss, incorporating all of these Google apps and more.

Other add-ons of particular interest to educators and students include Google Fusion Tables for data analysis, and several Collabrify apps, such as KWL and Flipbook.

Google Drive apps are available for iPad/iPhone and Android devices.

SketchUp is downloadable 3D design software and webware used by teachers and students to create models of anything they can imagine – from toys to buildings to theater sets or cars.  SketchUp can also be used for computer-aided design (CAD) or geographic information system (GIS) applications by itself, or in conjunction with Google Earth.

The free products include SketchUpMake for download to your computer; my.SketchUp, the online version; and 3D Warehouse, a large collection of components and models you can add and modify in your Sketchup creations. There are also SketchUp model viewers available for iPad/iPhone and Android devices.

Be sure to watch the video tutorials to guide you as you learn how to use the tools. Another useful resources is 3DVinci.net, which has a free SketchUp Guide for Teachers. The video below is an excellent discussion of how teachers are using SketchUp in the classroom, and additional resources for teachers.