Whenever my students start to get a little squirrely, I try to create a game to release some energy and to keep engagement up. Today’s game: Name That Tone! Keep reading for a step-by-step on how to create your own. Or keep scrolling for a link to my version in Google Slides.
Come up with a scenario
I always use one scenario and just change up the wording in how I describe that one scenario. My scenario includes one sister borrowing another sister’s sweater. You can easily change up your verb to change the tone: borrow, stole, took, etc. This scenario works well because I can easily change the tone from devasted to optimistic with just a few words.
Write out different versions of the scenario
I’m including a few examples I use below. I usually pick out a few tone words that I want to make sure I include, and then I write an example to go with it.
For each slide, I include one to two sentences to demonstrate a specific tone. Again, I’m using the same scenario for each. I only show one example at a time. That’s another reason that I really like doing this as a game. With a worksheet, students rush through in a hurry to get to the end. Here, we’re going to analyze each one as a group.
Gamify It
Up until now, this is very similar to a worksheet assignment: different texts and students identify the tone. Here’s what you need to do to make it into a game:
- Create teams. I think teams of 2-4 work best. This can also be individual depending on your class size. I just like using teams when possible so students can talk and debate it together prior to giving an answer.
- Create a system for giving answers. I’m including my directions below as a guide:
Extend the Learning
Increase engagement by having the person representing the group defend their answer. If you’re projecting on a whiteboard, allow students to circle or underline specific words that support their response. Give them a minute to defend their answer before announcing a winner for that round. Keep score on the board and offer a small prize or just a big DTU (double thumbs up) to the winning team.
Strapped for Time?
Aren’t we all? Click here to make a copy of my Google Slides presentation in your Google Drive.
3 comments
This was so helpful and what I absolutely love is the link to quickly open it in Google Slides. I wish everything in life was as ‘good to go’ and smooth as you made this resource. Thank you.
Hi! My name is Jordyn. I am currently studying English Education at Friends University. I think this is a great concept! I love how you are turning a learning concept into a game for the students. This encourages me to find ways to make learning fun in the classroom. Do you have any advice for me from your teaching experience? Thanks!
Author
Hi, Jordyn! Thanks for checking out my blog. My best advice is to keep searching on the web – it’s loaded with teacher blogs with amazing ideas that you can use in the classroom. Also, there’s an amazing Facebook group I’m a part of: Creative High School English (Here’s the link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/256927044749038/) If you’re on FB you should join. Very supportive group of fabulous ELA teachers. Everyone is sharing ideas and resources.
Good luck!
Amanda