Siri Time-Savers for the Classroom

I think it is safe to say that we've all done it. We've tapped/held the home button on our iPhone or iPad too many times when trying to put in our passcode that we get the inevitable beep that lets us know Siri is waiting for us to tell her to do something. Many times we just do this accidentally, but Siri can do some things that could help you and your students in the classroom.

Spelling and Definitions
Siri can give you the correct spelling or definitions of words.

What to say: "How do you spell _____?" or "What is the definition of _____?"

Calculations
Siri can add, subtract, multiply, divide, and even convert measurements. I wouldn't suggest using this one with students (unless you want them to check their work), but Siri could help teachers with grade calculations!

What to say: "What is 32 plus 44 plus 16?"  or "What is 20 percent of 65?" etc.

Reminders
Siri can remind you throughout the day when you need to get things done.

What to say: "Remind me tomorrow at 8:00 A.M. to  pass out field trip permission slips."

Decision Maker
Siri can flip a coin or roll a die, and the die can have as many sides as you'd like (6, 8, 20...). This could come in handy when you need a quick way to determine who is reading first, presenting first, etc.

What to say: "Flip a coin." or "Roll a die with 8 sides."

Research
Sometimes questions come up in class that you don't know the answer to. Siri can provide a quick answer.

What to say: "When did _____ happen?" or "What was _____?" or "Who was _____?"

Timer
I'm sure many of you have found, as I have, that setting a time limit for an assignment can keep things moving in class. If students know they only have 10 minutes to work on something, instead of the entire class period, they usually work with a little more purpose. Sometimes, though, I would find that I would be helping a student or group and totally lose track of time. Siri can set a timer for you. Even better, you can project it through your Apple TV so all students can keep track of the countdown.

What to say: "Set a timer for 15 minutes."