5. High tech, low tech, buy them, make them... games are cost-efficient, and students love them.
4. Once there are several games in the hopper, students can have choice.
3. Students can learn from one another as they play games. A teacher can craft those small groups of game-players to create opportunities for casual student-to-student explanations.
2. Whether teacher-directed or student-on-student, games are a great go-to for filling moments that might otherwise be unproductive. Waiting in line for bathroom time? Almost, but not quite, lunch time? Some students finish ahead of others? Use those minutes!
1. Games are one of the best ways to continually practice previously-taught skills. Sub in the room? Math hour is still productive! New, mid-year student in the room with some skill gaps? Many can be filled playing games with other students and observing their thinking. And do you have a really creative thinker in your room who challenges you to stay a step ahead? Have that student design a game to reinforce a skill that she understands ahead of her peers!
4. Once there are several games in the hopper, students can have choice.
3. Students can learn from one another as they play games. A teacher can craft those small groups of game-players to create opportunities for casual student-to-student explanations.
2. Whether teacher-directed or student-on-student, games are a great go-to for filling moments that might otherwise be unproductive. Waiting in line for bathroom time? Almost, but not quite, lunch time? Some students finish ahead of others? Use those minutes!
1. Games are one of the best ways to continually practice previously-taught skills. Sub in the room? Math hour is still productive! New, mid-year student in the room with some skill gaps? Many can be filled playing games with other students and observing their thinking. And do you have a really creative thinker in your room who challenges you to stay a step ahead? Have that student design a game to reinforce a skill that she understands ahead of her peers!