Wii in the classroom?

As I was brainstorming ideas for my third blog post, I was watching my sons play Wii. I started wondering if and how the beloved Wii could be used in the classroom to engage students. So I googled it. Guess what? Teachers are already using Wiis in the classroom. Arcademic Skill Builders creates games to use on the Wii. Their mission is to engage and excite students. I tested out a few of their games and I'm addicted already. In Grand Prix Multiplication you click on the correct answers to make your car move. The faster you click on the correct answer, the faster your car moves. And you can play with up to 4 players. My third grader was frustrated with his multiplication homework last night. I think this would be a great way to teach and practice math facts and allow the kids to have a little fun at the same time. In addition to multiplication games, there are addition, subtraction, language arts and geography games.

I recently started rewarding my sons' good behavior with 5 extra minutes of Wii time. My husband mockingly said, "are you serious, five extra minutes?" Much to his surprise, however, my tactic works! My kids figured that multiplication problem out in a hurry - five minutes per day times seven days a week equals 35 minutes of extra Wii time on the weekend. If they can get excited over 5 extra minutes a day, imagine how excited they would be to play Wii in the classroom!

Images from private collection.