Learning Magazine Names Primary Concepts’ HourGlass Classroom Timer and Noise Controller a Winner of the 2017 Teachers' Choice Award for the Classroom

Berkeley, CA - September 26, 2016 – The HourGlass classroom timer and noise controller from early learning curriculum developer Primary Concepts recently won a coveted 2017 Teachers’ Choice Award for the Classroom from Learning Magazine. The Teachers’ Choice award puts classroom products through a rigorous evaluation process by educators and then chooses winners based on those evaluations.

HourGlass is a dual function classroom management system that can be used as a timer or a noise detector.  The large hourglass-shaped tool can sit on a desk or be mounted on a wall. The display is large enough to be easily seen by everyone in the classroom or even in an auditorium.

HourGlass received high remarks from all evaluators, including one who said, “The best aspect of this product is that the kids asked to use it! I would tell them they had ten minutes and forget to use it and one of the kids would turn it on.”

When used in “timer mode,” HourGlass offers a fun, visual way to time games, tests and other events. Green LED lights replicate grains of sand falling from the upper part of the hourglass timer to the bottom. As the time limit approaches, the lights turn red and a one-minute warning tone sounds.  When the time is up the display flashes and a sound plays to signal the end.

When used in “noise mode” HourGlass helps teachers manage classroom noise. The teacher uses the dial on HourGlass to set a “trigger point” volume level for the classroom. HourGlass monitors the noise level in the room and the rows of green lights rise and fall based on the volume of sound.  When the levels are loud enough to reach the trigger point, the lights turn red and a warning sound plays, alerting the class to quiet down.

“We designed HourGlass to be a companion for teachers to make it easier for them to do their jobs,” said Jim Whitney, president of Primary Concepts. “HourGlass is easy to use and presents a simple, dynamic, visual display that students immediately react to. We are honored to be chosen as a Teacher’s Choice Award winner.”

HourGlass is operated using four C-batteries or by purchasing an optional AC adapter. HourGlass can be purchased for $99.95 at www.primaryconcepts.com. The AC adapter is $14.95. 

About Primary Concepts

At Primary Concepts, we believe the early years are a unique part of a child’s development.  We focus on the essentials of the preschool and primary curriculum, emphasizing engaging, motivational, hands-on learning to build a foundation for academic success.  We translate the most current educational research and best practices, as recommended by the Common Core State Standards initiative, the International Literacy Association, and the National Council for Teachers of Mathematics, into developmentally appropriate learning materials that offer ease of use for teachers and effective outcomes for your children.