Jenga!

Since my post last week was about using games to make connections, I wanted to follow up by mentioning another game I often use.  Jenga!  Students of all ages love this game.  I have used it with students in kinder up to 8th grade.  This game works great in one-on-one situations or with a group.  Jenga makes for a wonderful icebreaker activity.

On each Jenga block I wrote a question or statement.  Once the student pulls the block they must answer the question before placing the piece on the top of the tower.  Some pieces have serious questions while other blocks have fun statements to respond to.  When students pull the block that asks a question like, "What makes you mad?" they respond without hesitation almost every time.  Take the game away, ask the same question, and the student most likely will be more guarded and less unwilling to share something so personal.

Teachers, there are so many ways you can incorporate this game into your classroom depending on what you write on the blocks.  As a former math teacher, I would consider writing math facts on the blocks.  The possibilities are endless really.  What games do you like to use with students?  Please leave a comment.  I am always looking for new ideas!