Well-designed computer games can help kids enjoy science.
Educational games are a fun and practical tool for physical science teachers. Games can help kids get involved in science by providing a context where it is meaningful for them. Important physical science principles such as speed, velocity, chemical and physical change and the characteristics of materials can be taught effectively through games to get children excited about learning how the world works.
Construction Games
Science construction games allow children to build, or demolish, and practice with the principles of gravity, mechanics and three-dimensional space. An example of a well-designed science construction game is Disney's Trash Tower based on the popular animation film Wall-E. Kids are taught the basics of gravity, mechanics and three-dimensional space by helping Wall-E demolish his trash tower without electrocuting his pet cockroach.
Activity Games
Science exercises and activities can be made into a game by designing an interesting setting and theme that attracts the attention of kids. Even practical exercises like converting units, learning scientific facts and research projects can be turned into games with a little imagination. Take for example NASA's Astro Matic 3000 activity game. This activity teaches kids calculate their weight on different planets in the solar system, the standard metric system units and do simple unit conversions.
Science Arcade Games
Science arcade games combine the fun and fast-paced style of traditional arcade games with scientific subjects to help children learn and remember important scientific facts and concepts. For instance, you can Introduce kids to chemistry with Dog Pound 3, an arcade-style game created by PBS. Dog Pound 3 helps children understand each element is made of a different type of atom and how these elements are organized in the periodic table by playing a classic hammer arcade game.
Science Project Games
Science projects can be turned into games with a little work and imagination. Simply provide kids with an interesting challenge and the tools they need to accomplish it and kids' innate curiosity will do the rest. Try, for example, When Pigs Fly, a science project game created by the U.S Mint to teach children how planes fly in commemoration of the centennial of the Wright brothers first flight. In this game kids learn about the physics of flight by building their own plane and seeing how far it will fly.
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