Friday, May 29, 2015

Minecraft for the Masses

Molly and I have been experimenting with some cross curricular action using the strategy based game, Minecraft. Part of our action research team was to find unique ways to use technology and writing together. It is a wonderful for enrichment, as well as a weekly activity that the kids love and enjoy. Engagement is extremely high. When the students know more than you, things can be daunting. However, it was easy to pick up and learn along with our students. Students are required to stay on task, provide evidence of their work using signs, and work in teams to foster positive relationships. Each component incorporates a writing piece. Next year, we hope to incorporate these types of activities quite regularly. The curriculum integration is astounding. I have provided useful links for further investigation. Below are some of the ways we are currently using it.

  • Perimeter, Area, and Volume (Our first activity that we continue to build upon)
  • Creating a model of Colonial Boston (Must include the various jobs we have discussed, period correct buildings and situations, and the Boston Harbor, Tea Ships, etc.) 
  • Designing their ideal classroom (Opinion piece, writing)

Links: 
http://lessons4minecraft.com/ - Useful resource with lesson plans, ideas, and curriculum across grade levels.

http://gametrainlearning.org/teacherprograms/minecraft-workshop/ - Introductory Lessons

http://educade.org/lesson_plans/minecraft-math-area-and-perimeter - Minecraft Math, great video and explanation. 

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B2X0z6pjP70NdnI3Ri1BRWdnazg/view?usp=sharing - Here is our  lesson that we created using Area, Perimeter, Volume, and Fractions.

Any questions or suggestions please let us know. Feel free to add to the Minecraft folder in our Staff Google Drive! Here are a few of our projects. We are currently using Apple Air to present this in class for the speaking and language portion of our curriculum. Additionally, we would like in the future to have students upload creations/videos/etc. to a designated page. We are currently using screen shots. Wake County is heavily looking into Minecraft as a learning tool. We'll keep you updated! Thanks so much.












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