I don't know how it is for you guys, but it's hard out here being a teacher. We find ourselves in an era where our students are in constant competition with video games, cellphones, and the allure of instant gratification. The traditional lecture-and-test model doesn't always cut it anymore. So, what's the solution? The answer, I believe, lies in a bit of pedagogical magic—tricking students into learning by making education engaging, interactive, and downright fun.
To embark on this transformative journey, it's essential to recognize that we teach students, not just a subject. With this mindset, we can explore innovative strategies that create a dynamic and adaptable learning environment. One of the key elements is movement in the classroom. Allowing students to move around, change locations, and interact physically with the learning space can breathe new life into our lessons.
Imagine playing movement games in English Language Arts to promote engagement and interaction. One creative example is the "Ring Toss Reading Challenge." Students are divided into teams, and their task is to score points by successfully landing a ring on a cone. However, the game isn't just about physical skills; it's about literary challenges too. As students score points, they send a runner to retrieve a task card with a passage and a corresponding question. They work together to answer the question on an answer sheet. The game continues until time is called or until all questions have been answered. The winning team has the most correct answers. In my high school classroom, students play for bragging rights and sometimes for extra credit or a treat. My secondary students LOVE to play games such as this one.
This dynamic and fun approach not only integrates physical movement but also fosters collaboration and critical thinking. Game play continues until time is called or all questions are answered. Students compete in teams, and the winning team is the one with the most correct answers. This innovative approach can be adapted to cover various English Language Arts skills and topics.
Incorporating movement games like the "Ring Toss Reading Challenge" is not only engaging but also aligns with the philosophy of creating student-centered spaces. It breaks away from the traditional classroom model and places the students at the center of their learning journey. The result? Increased motivation, enthusiasm, and a genuine love for learning.
Moreover, this approach resonates with AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) strategies. It encourages inquiry, collaboration, and active participation. It equips students with the tools they need to become independent learners, all while having a blast in the process.
So, why are we talking about all this "trickery"? Because at the heart of it all is a profound understanding: the key to effective teaching is inspiring curiosity, passion, and a thirst for knowledge in our students. We can adapt, innovate, and create adaptive, student-centered spaces that make learning a thrilling adventure. The art of "tricking" students into learning isn't deceitful; it's our way of opening the doors to their full potential. When we ignite the spark of curiosity and make learning enjoyable, we set our students on a path to lifelong learning and success. And that's a magic trick worth mastering.
My students paid me the best compliment when we were working on an EOC practice that incorporates poetry and movement. They asked, "Was that the bell?" Sometimes, they are packed up and ready to go despite my admonishments. But not when they were invited to put movement to a poem. (This resource is available here.)
Please check out my teaching resources at Faulkner English. Follow me for freebies and resources! I will be adding resources for movement games in the secondary ELA classroom soon!