Vocabulary lessons are an integral aspect of every student's academic career. Whether the subject is English, science or history, new keywords are constantly introduced to students in the classroom and are essential to content learning. Instead of another dreaded pop quiz, make a game out of vocabulary words with this Bingo idea: Pass out blank bingo cards that feature a grid of empty boxes. Determine the number of boxes based on the number of vocabulary words. Have students fill in each box with one vocabulary word from a master list clearly displayed on the blackboard or overhead projector. To start the game, read a vocabulary word definition and have students cross off the box containing the word they think matches the definition. Continue playing this way until a student gets Bingo.
Picture Bingo is similar to vocabulary Bingo, except boxes are pre-filled with pictures instead of words. The teacher will call out picture names, and students will check off the corresponding picture box until someone gets Bingo. Picture Bingo is suitable for early elementary classrooms as well as a foreign language or science class. Older students in chemistry, for example, would benefit from picture Bingo that features abbreviations from the periodic table of elements, while a picture Bingo game based on pictures and names of different flower parts would be suitable for middle school students in a physical science class.
Social development, cooperative learning and kinesthetic learning are essential components of a student's overall academic career. Encourage and foster these skills in the beginning of the school year with this social Bingo idea: fill Bingo grid boxes in with short, descriptive phrases such as "has long hair," "is wearing green" or "likes reading." Have students go around the classroom collecting signatures from other students who match each description. Only one name can be signed per box. Once all boxes have been signed, call out students' names until someone gets Bingo.
Make math class enjoyable for students with a mathematical Bingo game. Before the game begins, create a master list of 20 to 30 simple math problems and answers. Randomly fill in Bingo card grid boxes with the equations only, and during game play, call out the answers. Instruct students to check off the box containing the corresponding equation until someone gets Bingo. Remember to double-check equations and answers before declaring a winner.