Equation Architects -- A Math Game
Welp...I finally finished. I truly enjoyed this design process. Here is the final product: Equation Architects (images below) Video for Equation Architects
Posts
Writing Recipes for Instruction
Recently, we taught 5th graders how to write a procedure for a science experiment. Writing game felt similar in process, especially in the details. I found that using a template of some sort (I used Catan Jr Directions ) was extremely helpful to be as my guide to begin the process of writing instruction. Because my audience is 9-12 year olds (for the most part), Catan Junior layout and organization and explanation helped me wrap my head around what directions could look like for Equation Architects. It takes me a minute to fly from 30,000 in concept development to the details of creating the product. I've created lots of content in my life, but never a game. So this process was challenging for me because being in the details is not always my strong suit. In writing the instructions for my game, I started with the sequencing of it -- the basics of how to play. I wrote and rewrote those several times, adding and subtracting, refining and iterating. The more I wrote and p...
Reflecting on the Analog Design Process
I have enjoyed this analog design process. What started as a seed idea has grown and morphed into something kids could use to lea rn and improve their math skills. What works best for me is time to marinate and iterate. After processing the feedback from peers and my professor, one issue kept me thinking...the drawing cards seemed random, complicated, and almost frustrating - why not give every player a complete set of numeral cards and a set of operations? Then, the idea of levels began to develop. This helped me think through how to tier the game for different learners. THEN...today, in fact...after looking closely at different instructions (most specifically Catan, Jr) and feedback from my professor, I decided it needs to have a narrative. Nothing that changes the purpose and goal but fills it out more, adding muscle to the skeleton. Instead of three levels with only easier to harder concepts - they will build something specific - magical, of ...
Goals of the Game
Goal Building The following are various problems I'm playing with in my mind that could be developed into a game. Problem 1 -- Solving an environmental problem So, helping the earth (based on a 3-5 learning standard on human impact) is something that might make a good game for learning. This is the standard I'm thinking about: Obtain and combine information about ways individual communities use science ideas to protect the Earth’s resources and environment. Problem: Protecting the Earth's resources and environment. This problem is inspired by our immersive project-based learning environment where we are always looking to how we can positively help communities and the world. In the past, our students have created social media campaigns to help fragile ecosystems (4) and created community events where they share how they have helped the environment (K). Lots of options for students to learn the process to helping the environment when playing a game. Steps to the Problem:...
Garden Design Heroes: A Prototype Learning Game
So I made my first digital game using Twine. I LOVED it and can't wait to make more. Not sure why I loved it so much, but I plan to marinate on that for awhile. Game Title Garden Design Heroes is the title of this learning game. I chose this title because the goal of the game is to learn how to design and care for a pollinator garden. Additionally, based on the intended audience, students in grades 3-5, I wanted the players to have the opportunity to see themselves as design heroes. Learning Goal Designed for a project-based learning environment, the learning goal of this game is to teach students in grades 3-5 the basic knowledge of designing a pollinator garden ecosystem in a school setting. Knowledge stems from life science learning standards that include what pollinators need, what challenges to be prepared for, and what is required to care for a pollinator garden ecosystem. Upon completing the game, students should be able to make strategic decisions in designing ...