I have used the crossword puzzles as homework and given a prize for the most correct. I have also used it as a small group project and given prizes to the group with the most correct. I found it more helpful to use it as a group project in the beginning when they are just learning the material, so they can talk through it. Using it as individual homework seemed to be better as a review technique for the exam.
I love the reward system you described. Using school cash can make it possible for different motivators to be chosen by the learners themselves. Great idea!
I have purchased the software to create crossword puzzles and the students really enjoy them. It gives them a sense of accomplishment. I first did not put the answers at the end of teh puzzle, but then I thought that this is really "not a game". Any time that a student finds that correct answer, whether in their reading or fromt he pool of answeres, the are learning. They still have to "read" from the book or dictionary to understand the pool of answers - in order to pick the right one.
I have also used games from the DVD that comes with most Med Term text books. Most of the games a use a review. We give out "school cash" to the students in order to get items from the bookstore.
I really like using crosswords, word searches, and small pop quizes (nothing hard) this helps them it really does.
I'm glad to hear you use some of the same strategies I do, and I hope the new ideas are incorporated into your classes and give you continued success in teaching.
This is what I normally do as well but I am going to try more word searches and crosswords. I also like the concentration game, it was one of my favorites growing up. I may do a spin on it using pictures as well as terms and match them.
I have also used crossword and word search puzzles with one of my classes. This was a homework assignment. I was amazed by how involved and competitive the students became. The assignment was for students,working in groups of three to create either a crossword or a word search puzzle with chapter terms. The class completed each groups puzzles. A couple of the word searches took time to complete. The students enjoyed this activity and it also served to reinforce terms to be learned.
Krista, the key is variety, adding new and taking away old as the group works through them. Keep your eyes open for activities that will allow you to mix and match them.
Crosswords got a mix review.
Mystery term students liked at first but after a while lost interest.
Matching they liked but as teams.
You can assess students knowledge and skills in a variety of ways which allows to celebrate students who show they knowledge in different ways. This is motivating and confidence building.
Not everyone has a natural style to figure out the puzzle part, but once they do, it is a great test review. I know your students are benefiting from using these puzzles, Diedra!
Personal dry erase boards is a great low tech tool that has many uses. Thanks for sharing your idea, Jason!
Students like opportunities to get extra credit.
Flashcards are great tools, Robbie. I find them to be even more helpful if they have a picture or visual component.
I use a lot of word puzzles and cross words for my students when it comes to helping them learn. Some go crazy for them and keep asking for more and others fight it in the beginning but eventually they will start to use the as well.. Especially for test review.
in addition, I have used personal dry-erase boards for q&a.
Many reinforcement books that accompany our text books have pre-made crosswords etc. I have given them in the past to students, usually as "extra-credit."
have found flashcards to be very helpful to students and they seem to respond well to them. time that might otherwise be wasted is filled in easily.
I see that with the homework assignments, I learn quickly who pays attention in class and who does not. It is easy to see who needs help from their peers.
Having the student's take responsibility for what they need to review is a great strategy.
