At Sunrise Estates Elementary School, the students in Mrs. Simon’s classroom are enjoying a plethora of new board games.
“Board games are inherently interactive and enjoyable,” explains Simon. “They can captivate students' interests and motivation, making learning more engaging. A board game can really spice up instruction. I like to have students answer a question correctly in order to take their next turn in the game. The element of competition or collaboration within a game setting can drive students to actively participate.”
Simon also points out the educational value of many of the new games, which require planning, decision-making, and development of critical thinking skills as students analyze situations, weigh options, and make informed choices. Strategic board games can enhance cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills.
“Some board games even involve counting, calculations, and reading,” says Simon. “Whether it's keeping score, managing resources, or interpreting instructions, students can reinforce math and literacy skills in a fun and practical context.”
Funds for the new materials were made possible through DonorsChoose, a crowdfunding platform for teachers.
5th-graders Brookson Yost, Wyatt Pushinsky, Zyon Bethea-Knox, and Liliana McDonald play Multiplication Jenga
3rd-graders Lorenzo Milos, Emma Wolowski, and Aniah Stowell play Hi Ho Cherry-O
3rd-grader Xander Vargson selects a game to play
4th-graders Logan Harkobusic and Benjamin Lee compete at Thin Ice