When I prepare a review game, I like to put 1-2 of the actual test questions somewhere in the review. I know that some of my students will study the questions from the review game in addition to the test review worksheet that I give them, so I like to reward the extra work. Also, I think it helps students relax a bit when they see a familiar question on the test.
My favorite types of review games are whole class games. However, for me to play a whole class review game, the game must be set up in a way that kids can't just sit back and "coast" on the backs of their team. No slackers allowed!
Also read: 15+ Math Games to Keep Students Engaged
I like to call this game "Let the Cards Decide". This game can be played with any subject and any type of question. As with any review game, tweak the rules to fit your classroom and students.
How to Play "Let the Cards Decide"
Before students come to class, copy the deck of cards onto cardstock. Select the questions you would like to use for the game. Also, decide how you want to ask the questions. I suggest choosing one of the following methods:
- Verbally ask each question. This works well for vocabulary or humanities type classes.
- Type or handwrite questions and display them on the board using a projector.
- Give students a review sheet the night before the game. Then, when you ask a question in class you can just call out a problem number. This also gives students a chance to correct their review sheet before the test.
Put students into teams of 4-6 students. The game works best if you have about 5 teams. Set up one chair at the front of the room for each team (5 teams = 5 chairs). I call these chairs the hot seats. It's fun to let students have team names.
Have each team send someone to the hot seat. Ask a review question. Call on the student in the hot seat that raises their hand first. If the student is correct, they get to draw a card (and do whatever is on the card). If the student is incorrect, someone else from the hot seat can answer.
Continue asking questions and having the teams cycle through the hot seat. The big twist with this game is that a correct answer doesn't necessarily mean your team gets points! This game truly comes down to luck! You can make your own deck of cards, but if you'd like the set I use it's part of my free resource library. If you don't have access, you can sign up here.
Also read: Trashketball - My Favorite Review Game
There are so many fun things you can do to add a twist to the game! I love playing this game to prepare for final exams too.
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If you already get my emails, use this link: free resource library and the password you have received in previous emails. You will not receive a separate email with the file as an attachment. If you do not receive my emails, click the button below.
