(above) Grade 4 students Alexa Cohen, Alexa Velazquez and Addison Long.
Breakout EDU, an Interactive Learning Experience at Mt. Horeb School
Students at Mt. Horeb School are being challenged by Breakout EDU, an interactive diverse learning experience that enables teachers to facilitate academic games for students at varying levels and ages. Ms. Christine Burkhardt, Library Media Specialist, brought the game to Mt. Horeb and is excited and pleased by the students’ reactions.
To play the game, the Breakout EDU Kits are set up by the proctor. Students are divided into teams and placed at a table with their kit. Depending on the topic, which can involve subject matter related to math, science, world language, social studies, ELA, computer science, or library media literacy, a scenario card is distributed along with supporting materials. Students are then given a time limit to crack the case.
Each Breakout EDU Kit is sealed by many multi-locks that can only be opened once a particular question in the game has been answered. Clues can even be written with invisible ink only to be read once the red lens viewer is broken out of the locked box.
Breakout EDU encourages students to use critical thinking skills, collaboration, creativity and communication. After all of the clues have been given, each question answered, riddles solved and locks opened, students can break open that kit to claim their prize. The students of Mt. Horeb School worked very hard and were proud to hold their “we broke out” signs once they successfully finished the game!
“With escape rooms becoming more and more popular in the area, these Breakout EDU boxes are an engaging way for students to work on life skills such as teamwork, problem solving, critical thinking, persistence and troubleshooting. The games are fun and adaptable to any subject area, and they promote communication and collaboration. It’s a win-win,” said Ms. Christine Burkhardt.
Submitted by Shannon Regan
Photo by Warren Township Schools
