This app allows you to create an animated avatar that speaks. You can customize the look 
of an avatar and create a background, and then you can use text-to-speech (for English text) or have students record their voice (great for foreign language class). It only allows 30 seconds of narration, so it can be used as a quick assessment or just for practice in class. This app is free on the itunes store.
I recently had my students write out their daily routines by filling in a blank 24 hour schedule for homework and then record themselves in class. With 30 seconds, many were not able to fit in their entire day, but it was the first time we used the app, so they were engaged in trying it out and it was just for practice. Check out this student example:
SpanishPlans.org 