After numerous lockdowns, my Grade 2 students were desperate for interaction and play. 2022 was their first uninterrupted school year. Not only did they need help catching up in math and literacy, but they also needed support in developing communication skills, practicing problem-solving, and building friendships.
The Value of Games in Learning Post-Covid
Many of these students were 1-2 years behind in their social-emotional skills, through no fault of their own, and they needed opportunities to work on these skills. One way we, as Grade 2 teachers, addressed these challenges was through games. As we saw our students make strides academically and behaviorally over the course of the year, we witnessed the value of games in learning.
It’s probably not surprising to know that using games in the classroom can improve student engagement, communication skills, motivation, attentiveness, memory, and resilience.
I believe it’s wise to build up a good “bank” of games as they often address multiple areas of curriculum in one lesson. Games don’t have to be complicated, and they can have “levels” that increase in difficulty. Students can get bored with games, so it’s good to try new games to keep students engaged.
One game that I find to be quite versatile is called “KABOOM!” It’s simple enough that even the youngest students can learn how to play. Teachers can easily switch out concepts so they can reinforce specific areas of the curriculum. See below how to play and refer to picture examples of this free division game.
How to Play KABOOM!
Students sit in a circle and take turns pulling out cards. If the student can answer the question on the card, he or she keeps the card. If the answer is incorrect, the student puts the card back in the pile.
When he or she pulls out the KABOOM! card, the student puts all their cards back in the pile.
When the KABOOM! card is the only remaining card, that’s the end of the game. The student with the most cards wins!
Tips for Division KABOOM!
Normally, KABOOM! is a quick recall game. For the Grade 3-4 cards, students should be able to recall division facts right away. For the Grade 5-6 cards, ask students specific questions such as “Can you calculate the answer and the remainder?” or “Can you calculate the answer to the nearest percentage?” Give them ample time to do so.
With KABOOM!, teachers can reinforce math concepts, such as shapes, angles, addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, etc. Grammar or other literacy concepts can also be used in this game. There are lots of possibilities!
I hope this post inspired you to use games in your classroom! ‘
Do you think the value of games in learning is overrated or underrated? What games do you use in your classroom?
Interested in more KABOOM! games? Check out my store!
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