Introduction to the range of new literacies (III): Gaming and literacy
Assignment#1 Create an account with Gamestar Mechanic. Examine and explain how other teachers are
using games in the classrooms (particularly with ELA). If you are experienced
gamer, you could try creating your own game (not mandatory).
Teachers are using games in the classroom for
numerous reasons. Some reasons teachers incorporate games in lessons are to
motivate students, review material, encourage participation, and to break up
lecture with an activity. One game I found on Gamestar Mechanic is called
“Pollution Solution.” “Pollution Solution,” is a game that requires you to get
rid of the sources of pollution. Throughout the game your avatar reaches areas
where icons popup and tell you facts about pollution. For example, they will
name some causes of pollution and ways that you can reduce pollution. I think
this is a great way for students to have fun and learn at the same time. While
they are playing the game they are learning about ways to help and clean the
environment.
Assignment #2 Write a brief statement on your philosophy of using games in
the classrooms (from the teacher and the learner's point of view).
Using games in the classroom will engage and
motivate students to participate and be active throughout the lesson. ELA
teachers can also use games to reward students after a lesson while keeping it
meaningful and educational. We our surrounded by technology today and students
relate to it, so why not allow our students to learn by new and exciting
activities.
Assignment#3 Use
your creativity and imagination, write a game scenario/script for your
game design and use narrated PPT or Jing Project (no more than 5
minutes) to present your game scenario/script (you could use image to
enhance your game story). See sample scenario/script below from a 4th grader (not in PPT yet).
Here's my link for my game scenario
http://www.screencast.com/t/ZnfvZGy6L7
I wish I would have seen the game on pollution that you found, that does sound interesting. I agree with your idea that if using a game is fun and educational then why not. The only thing that needs to be evaluated is if the game is indeed educational.
ReplyDeleteI like your game scenario. I think students will really enjoy this game saving animals and protecting the oceans. I didn't see the game "Pollution Solution" on Gamestar Mechanic. Could you please post the link when you get a chance. I would love to check it our for my students.
ReplyDeleteThis game sounds great! I like how it's educating students about the harm people inflict on the ocean. It's important for students to appreciate the environment we live in, and to not harm it or the animals.
ReplyDelete