Clicker Crazy!

Its official. I have gone Clicker Crazy! I have found ways to incorporate the clickers~ or remote control keypads as they are known in my school district~ into all kind of activities. These remote controls allow students to punch in answers electronically~ and the results are posted on the overhead screen. For instance~ the class answers a math problem~ punching in either the number or choosing a mutliple choice answer~ and then the screen shows what percent of the class got the answer correct.

Recently~ I have pushed myself to take the remotes to another level. I began incorportating them into traditional games and review activities. For example~ students use remotes to play Around the World by answering questions to move to the next table with the hopes of circling the whole classroom. Today~ my students used the remote system when playing a game called Elimination Ball~ where students get an answer correct then eliminate a classmate until there is only one student remaining.

The student who gets the beach ball must answer a question posed on the overhead screen within 30 seconds by using the remote. Students answering questions gets immediate feedback. If they get an answer wrong~ they also get to see the correct answer.

I also plan to play Football~ which will involve students answering questions to move down imaginary yards set up by tape in the classroom. It seems like any traditional game can be improved using remotes~ and it is a great way to review a lot of material in a short time.

If you use remotes in your classroom and would like to write about the ways you have incorporated them into the classroom please visit the group~ Innovative Teaching and click on the topic Click Away.

Steve