Games for Engagement in Middle and High School

Review days used to be the days I lost my students. Once I started building review around games, kids who never raised a hand were arguing over answers, and that's the kind of noise I want in a classroom. This post covers how I use games with middle and high school students without wasting instructional time, along with a professional development handout you can share with your staff.

Games for Engagement

Middle and High School

Click Here for Professional Development Handout

GAMES to bump up the level of engagement in your classroom►

Why games work in secondary classrooms

Do you ever watch game shows orplay games on your phone? Why do we do this?Because we are a game-loving culture.We love to be entertained, but we love to be part of the entertainment even more.Do you want to get student’s attention and keep it while reviewing meaningful content? Well, then LET the GAMES begin!

How can I use games and not waste time?

Make sure you have content rich games. Ensure the instructions are organized and modeled so students understand how to play.Use a timer when needed.Provide partners or group options for students who are struggling learners.

Why are games necessary for student engagement in secondary classrooms?

G-Get student attention

A-Assess content knowledge

M-Motivate students to learn

E-Engage student in learning

S-Save your class from boredom

All learners want to know what is expected and specific expectations for the task at hands.These can act as unit rubrics for students to reflect and engage in their own progress.

Game ideas to try

IDEAS for GAMES in YOUR CLASS:

• Social Studies Picture Puzzles 
•  Social Studies Games
•  Social Studies Timelines
• Science Picture Puzzles
• Science Games
• I Have, Who Has
• Puzzles
• Picture Puzzles
• Timeline or sequencing relays
• Bingo
• Tic, tac, toe
• Jeopardy, Survivor
• Board games
• Who am I?
• Taboo
• What Am I?
• Kahoot
• Quizlet

So, ensure your student remain ENGAGED by letting the GAMES begin!--Another post by Learned Lessons Teacher Material

Other Resources to Check Out: 
Social Studies MEGA BUNDLES

A tip from my classroom

Before the first real round, play a practice round using last week's content so nobody is learning the rules and the new material at the same time. Keep a timer on the board and keep groups to three or four so everyone has a job. End with one exit question so the game still tells you who has it and who doesn't.

Find more of my teacher and principal resources in this guide.

See every review game resource in my shop: browse the collection.

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Find a year-long curriculum designed for middle and high school classrooms.

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