Gamestar Mechanic and Games in the Classroom

Many teachers are using games in the classroom. After browsing through Gamestar Mechanic, I found that teachers are using games in a variety of ways for ELA. The most evident is having students read as they are playing the game. This could be incorporated in many different ways. To start, the students will have to read and understand the directions of the game. Furthermore, throughout the game there could be several pop ups that they have to read in order to win and complete the game. It seems that the majority of the games are intended as a reinforcer and not a lesson in and of itself.

In terms of using games in the classroom, I think it's a great idea if used properly. I believe that using a game that's based on a topic the students have learned is a great way for the students to gain more experience and familiarity with the topic. There are many appropriate games that can help students reinforce their newly learned skills. Furthermore, since they are playing a game students will be more apt to continue enhancing these skills. It will keep them interested and motivated. However, I do not agree with only using games. I think there needs to be a balance between a structured lesson and technology. Therefore, I think starting the lesson in a structured format followed by allowing the students to play an instructional game that reinforces their newly learned skills is a wonderful balance. Furthermore, this also meets the needs of every student as it provides the structure that some students may need and also the creativity that others require at the tame time.