Critical thinking games
 

I'm trying to find a game to play with my Honors Sophomore English class. Something that requires them to think, but doesn't involve many materials or lengthy rules. The kids won't have internet access during class. I am trying to use this as a team-builder and an ice-breaker. I am hoping that someone knows of such an activity or where I can find such activities. Google just sends back too many "buy this book/CD" hits. :rolleyes:

Thanks!

Duck Duck Goose

seven tappers

group sex

Go. Simpler than chess, yet considered to be in the same class as a Chinese strategy game. Encircle your opponent with marbles. Sounds too easy, but can be maddening.

Damn GW...is that your idea of "No Child Left Behind?"

Would theatre games be appropriate? If so check Viola Spolin's books or possibly Keith Johnstone's "Impro".

I've used the winking assassin game with groups often. It focuses on observation and problem solving. Also, a game called scorpion where everyone has their eyes closed. One person is the scorpion and tries to "sting" the other players. Finally when only the scorpion and one other are left both try to "sting" the other. It really forces people to listen and "feel" the people around them. Also, the first few times you play most people will stand. Eventually one person will discover that croutching leaves them much safer.

Hope these help. I can probably come up with more if you would like. Good luck.

Mafia

Something like Taboo (the word game, not the porn) or CatchPhrase sound like they would be good.

Password, Taboo, Scrabble, Boggle

Risk

We do a lot of critical thinking activities in my classes. A lot of good brain teaser sites out there have good activities. Walch publishing produces some excellent critical thinking books. One that I like to use are red-herring puzzles. You give them a situation and they can ask you up to 20 questions to guess what has happened to lead up to the situation. All my books are at school, or otherwise I would give you a specific example. If I get a chance I will go there tomorrow and try and did up some of the things I use.

They made a game out of the movie? Link?

I wound up finding a "Who will you let into your bomb shelter?" activity on the web. It actually worked out pretty well. The kids enjoyed having the power of God over 20 fictional people.

You're already back in school? We start Thursday, and that's at least a week earlier than any school around here.