The best PowerPoint game I played today was by Jamie Paticchio. The game is geared toward third grade math students and is designed to practice solving word problems. The name of the game is "Grocery Store Challenge" and the objective is to help Tommy and his mom buy all the groceries they need without going over their budget.
The technology enhanced the subject matter. The game itself was well designed. The home page had an animated clip art piece and the entire presentation flowed well. Because the game is played in groups, it creates team work and cooperation. Playing this game during class would not only enhance learning, but also foster peer relationships. The questions are consistent with the word problem theme and are grade level appropriate.
I wouldn't change the questions, per se, but I would change the "outcome" slides. I don't like that a big sad face and INCORRECT! pops up if the students get the answer wrong. Especially with viewing this on a projector (which is more probable since the game is for the entire class), it is discouraging to see an image like that for a third grader. Instead, I would possibly put "Try Again" without the exclamation point and the HUGE sad face. Also, a few slides still have "type my question here" before the question begins.
I really liked how colorful and well put together this game was. I want to figure out how to incorporate animated clip art into my game when I create it.
PowerPoint games can be used as a classroom activity in order to break away from the monotony of worksheets and lectures. PowerPoint games are a fun way to learn and will foster student participation and, creativity if used properly.
