Kids like games. That’s why as teachers games can be a great way to enhance student learning in the classroom. Don’t believe me? No problem! Today I’ve created a list of eight reasons to use classroom games to enhance student learning.
1. Kids don’t realize they’re still learning.
When you tell the students you’re going to play any type of classroom game, they are immediately drawn in. They get excited. Learning is guaranteed to take place because of this excitement. Right there you’ve won the first battle!
2. Games keep kids engaged.
Engaged students learn more. Games are just one great way to keep students engaged. Here are a few more ideas if you want them.
3. You can learn great lessons from classroom games.
Yes, you obviously have some type of academic reason in mind when you pull out a game to enhance student learning. But what about the other lessons that can be learned? Students can learn teamwork, perseverance, how to follow rules, and much more – just by playing a simple classroom game.
4. Learning is enhanced.
Games come with emotions. Kids get excited about figuring out a problem, or they get elated over a win. When emotions are involved in learning, that learning is more likely to be greater.
5. Previously taught concepts are reinforced.
Games are a great way to reinforce concepts you’ve already taught without the dreaded “drill and kill”. Today’s students want to be engaged and having fun, yet it can be hard to do that. Pulling out games, like these Magic Square Puzzles, helps your students review concepts in a fun way where they don’t even realize they’re still learning.
6. Any student can enjoy games.
With the many different learning styles our students have, it’s sometimes a challenge to find ways to engaged them all with one activity. Yet many games let us do just that! Tactile learners can enjoy and learn through manipulating game pieces, analytical thinkers will enjoy the various thought processes needed to be successful in the game, and your readers and drawers will like those aspects (if the game you choose contains them). Different games can help reach different types of learners.
7. Games are memorable.
Students are more likely to remember what they’re learning when they enjoy it. Which leads us to our next point…
8. Games are fun!
Those are eight reasons you should be using games in your classroom! Your students will thank you, your lesson plans will thank you, and even your test scores will thank you!
Not sure where to start looking for classroom games? Check out all of my awesome Magic Square Puzzle games in my Teachers Pay Teachers store by clicking here. If you’re not ready to commit to a purchase just yet, check out the free downloads by clicking here.
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