Welcome back to my blog friends! Today I am writing all about using game boards in the bilingual classroom. Teachers are creative and inventive when it comes to engaging students in the lessons. Since we are always creating these fun new ways to engage students with content, today I am here to share my top three reasons for using game boards. I will also be sharing FREE game boards in SPANISH to use as you head back to school.
Keep reading for ideas and a FREEBIE!
Top three reasons to use game boards in the classroom:
1) Learn skills
Through games, students are learning much more than just content. They are applying critical thinking skills, team work, good sportsmanship, and creativity. Games allow students to learn and practice rules. They also learn from experience to think ahead and plan their "winning strategy."
2) Engagement
Using game boards ensures the students are participating. Students take turns and hold each other accountable to answer the questions. Since there is an element of competition, they are energized and motivated to pay attention to what is going on in the game.
3) Retention of material
Students will recall much more information when they are actively participating in their learning. So what's better than practice book pages, worksheets, and writing definitions? A game that will provide the repetition they need to retain the material. However, be certain to make this connection noticeable for students. They need to be able to apply what they learned at the game during their academic tasks.
I have created this FREEBIE just for you to use when playing games in the classroom. Simply print out the pages and laminate for durability. Just add dice, game pieces, and you're set! This is a must have when getting centers or stations prepared :) Enjoy! Click on the picture for your free download!
So how will you use games this coming school year? What kind of games do your students play? I'd love to hear from you in the comments below.
Until next time friends, XOXO
