Complete Guide for Teachers using Google Slides in the Classroom

Here’s a complete guide for teachers using Google Slides in the classroom, designed to help both beginners and experienced educators maximize its potential.

If you are unsure of what you need, first read: What skills and equipment do I need to Use Google Slides?

Getting Started with Google Slides

What You Need:

A Google account (free with Gmail)
Access to Google Drive
An internet-connected device (laptop, desktop, Chromebook, or tablet)
A web browser (preferably Google Chrome)

How to Start a Slide Deck:

Go to slides.google.com.
Click the “+ Blank” or choose a template.
Title your presentation from the top-left corner.

How to Use Google Slides in the Classroom

1. Direct Instruction

Create lesson presentations just like PowerPoint.
Add images, videos, and links to make lessons interactive.
Use animations or slide transitions to control pacing.

2. Interactive Lessons

Use “Insert → Text box” and leave empty fields for students to fill in (shared or individually).
Try Pear Deck or Nearpod add-ons to turn slides into live interactive sessions.

3. Student Projects

Have students create their own slide decks as reports or presentations.
Use Version History to monitor contributions in group work.

4. Daily Agendas or Bell Ringers

Make a daily slide deck with the day’s agenda, objectives, and starter activity.
Display on screen or share via Google Classroom.

5. Digital Notebooks or Journals

Create a master slide deck with templates.
Force a copy for each student using a link format:
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/FILEID/copy

6. Flip Classroom / Self-Paced Learning

Embed videos and comprehension checks.
Use speaker notes for instructions or questions.

Tips & Tricks

Formatting & Design

Use simple, readable fonts (Arial, Montserrat, Roboto).
Stick to 2-3 consistent colors.
Use the “Master Slide” to create reusable templates.

Efficiency

Use “Duplicate slide” to repeat layouts.
Add links to specific slides to create nonlinear, interactive pathways.
Use Google Slides Add-ons (like Unsplash Photos, Slido, Icons by Noun Project).

Sharing & Collaboration

Set share settings to “Anyone with the link can view/edit” as needed.
Use comments to give feedback directly in student slides.
Group work? Have students share their slides with you and each other.

Integration

Post slides in Google Classroom under "Material" or “Assignment.”
Embed into a Google Site as a digital portfolio or class website.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Overloading slides with text: Keep slides visual—use speaker notes for details.
Sharing with incorrect permissions: Always double-check “Share” settings.
Too many transitions/animations: Use subtle transitions only when needed.
Not teaching students how to use it: Model how to create/edit/share slides early on.
Losing track of versions: Use “File → Version history” and name key versions.

Advanced Ideas

Create a Virtual Escape Room with clickable links to clues and challenges.
Make a Choose Your Own Adventure story using linked slides.
Use audio recordings (inserted via Google Drive) for pronunciation, instructions, or accessibility.
Create a self-grading quiz using linked slides and hidden answers.

Final Thoughts

Google Slides is more than a digital projector—it's a versatile, interactive tool that enhances both teaching and student creativity. Whether you’re designing a lesson, hosting a student showcase, or flipping your classroom, Slides can help you deliver rich, engaging experiences.