According to a recent paper by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), games, when developed correctly and used appropriately, can engage players in learning that is specifically applicable to school curriculum, and teachers can leverage the learning in these games without disrupting the worlds of either "play" or school.

Please find the assignments in TWO formats: a PDF file and a Word document.

This is a bundle of fun games you can play in a Language Arts/English classroom. The topics include "TROPICAL," HALLOWEEN," "WINTER," "BASKETBALL," and "SPRING." 

Students must match appropriate words with the categories provided. The categories are diverse (a bit like the game Scattergories but more accessible for all types of learners).

You might also give it to your students during a team-building exercise or leave it for a substitute teacher. You might even consider using it as an assignment for students who finish their classwork early or hand it to your class on the day before a long weekend or a vacation. The possibilities are endless, but I can tell you -- after using this exercise for many years now -- it really keeps my students engaged. It has been a lifesaver on more than one occasion.

I have included the worksheets as PDF files and the package also includes "possible answers" sheets. I have used these activities many times in my own classroom, and the "possible answers" are some of the best that my students have provided.

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