Recently, after being discovered time after time that my class was in California, I decided to shake up the structure of my Mystery Skype competitions. I saw students starting to get a little discouraged. The excitement of the situation also seemed to lead to a bit of a volume issue in my class. My solution was to split my class into two teams to compete against each other, while competing against the "out-of-state classroom."
How it works. I split my class into two teams and assigned each student to a slimmed down, more focused set of jobs for our Mystery Skype. My class was then not only competing against the "out-of-state" class to see who could discover the others location first, but also competing within my class between the two teams of my students working to be the first to discover where the other class was located. What this meant for us was that even when we were discovered to be in California (which again seems to happen quit quickly), my students were still working hard to find out the solution of where the "out-of-state" class is located.
More details... Each team in my class alternates on who asks the questions to the "out-of-state" class(sample question order: Team 1, Team 2... then Team 2, Team 1... then Team 1, Team 2... Then team 2 Team 1... and continuing to alternate until the one has the solution). This means they have to listen closely as to not repeat a question and to get clues from the other teams questions. (Note: Both teams work together to provide answers for the "out-of-state" class.) Along with several other small tweaks, my note takers need to show written evidence that their team actually discovered the location based on the questions they asked and the answers given, rather than from hearing the answer from the other team. I love this because it develops students who show proof and evidence which plays out well in many other subjects including core subjects of writing and math. This new twist also helped build in a purpose to whisper. The first team to tell me the location of the other class... wins the game.
Some advantages include teams working more quietly not to give away clues to the other team in our class, students are able to hold a wider variety of jobs because of the reduced team sizes and the ongoing focus the students have during the game. I was able to eliminate a few of the jobs that always seemed to feel "left out." All of these changes for my class have lead to greater student engagement, involvement and ultimately learning.
I love that this new twist provides a new style of competition, collaboration, critical thinking, and an opportunity for my students to provide evidence for their solution (plus many other benefits). As the games continues to evolve in my classroom, I'll update post here and share. If you have questions don't hesitate to contact me. Finally... let me know the great changes you're making and awesome ideas you have for the classroom!
Microsoft Twitter Background Photo!
So fun-Microsoft chose to feature our class as the background photo during the Super Bowl! #empowering
Mystery Skype Yosemite, CA by Serena (5th Grade)
It was October 15, 2013. They shared with us that they are a one room Kinder through 6th grade class. “I’m determined to win.” says Karina. We asked about 15 questions and they asked about 20, but oh no! The other team has already guessed our state! There is a lot of tension in the air ,we are excited we have a feeling that it is either New Mexico, Washington, or Oregon. But no. Wow, they turn out to be…. California! Everyone was freaking out. Now we know that they are either Southern or Northern California . Back in the think tank, it is chaotic.
People are yelling and telling the other people what to do. We think it is time for them to reveal where they are! They live in… Yosemite national park! Ally said ‘’That was awesome!’’ Oh well they won maybe next time!!!
Mystery Skype with Mexico City
Here are a few photos from the filming of the Mystery Skype with Microsoft. The video is part of the #empowering series and was featured on the Superbowl!
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