I use the games in my class for both review at the end of a unit and for content. For example, this past year, I used a Breakout game to teach my students about Watergate. I had limited time to cover the topic and found that rather than a lecture or worksheet (which I almost never do in my classroom anyway), I would find an engaging way to help them learn about the scandal.
I typically break students into four groups (I have 4 complete kits) to ensure there is a role for every student. I have an average of 34 students per class. Some games are completely physical games (with all clues in class). Others include online puzzles. I continue to refine and learn what works and doesn't work.
I have found that many of my students who may not do well on tests or on other assignments, excel in Breakout games. I had one student last year who was often in a group that failed to breakout. She was frustrated but refused to give up. Learning as we played each game, she came in the day of the Watergate Breakout and was determined. This time she and her group were not only the first to finish in her class, but out of all of my classes. The pride she and her team had was so cool to see.
I encourage you to give it a try! Your students will love it! Check out Breakout Edu to get started.
My games are centered around an entire unit such as the Gilded Age or a single topic such as Watergate. Students use their content knowledge to help them solve puzzles!
Breakout games promote the 4 Cs: Collaboration, Communication, Critical Thinking and Creativity!
Every team that completes the game in 45 minutes gets a photo. In the future, I will make a wall of fame with these pictures for the year. Students love to compete to see who has the fastest time!
