Now Let's Turn On Our Gamification Mode!

I used PhET simulations to explain the difference between Series and Parallel Circuits. In this subtopic, I need to explain the difference of potential difference, current and effective resistance between these two types of circuits. Instead of having to set up the real circuits, I only need to construct the circuits in the simulation. The simulation can be downloaded from here. 

PhET simulation on phet.colorado.edu

I built two types of circuits before the class so that I can save the time for demonstration. The simulation done in computer can be displayed on projector which let the whole class to be able to observe the simulations.

Two types of circuits: series and parallel circuit.

Simulating the results.

By using this simulation, I was able to teach them the concepts of each circuit and how to solve the problems on current, potential difference and resistance. After that, I let them to explore the formulas in the group. In doing the task, they have to recall the concepts that have been observed on simulation.

After the exploration session, I used Kahoot! as an assessment tool to access the students’ understanding. This tool is very convenient as it provides lots of other quizzes which is very helpful for teachers. The teachers can simply use the existed questions to access their students. I acted as the host and the students can join the quizzes by keying in the password. I chose the team mode instead of individual mode as I can simply access the performance of the students by group. 

The student joined the Kahoot! hosted by the teacher.

The students joining the Kahoot!

The Power Renjer team

As Kahoot! automatically check for the correct answer, I was able to identify the number of groups who have failed to answer the question correctly. I can explain the correct answer after each of question. I can simply pause the game since Kahoot! let me control each of the questions.

The results after each of questions

Kahoot! also have the real time scoreboard which displayed the scores for each group. The students were competing among each other and are very excited to find out their marks. However, playing Kahoot! needs a strong connection of internet. One of the groups accidentally left the quiz because of the poor connection.

The students are eager to check their scoreboard.

The students are able to rate the quizzes, give feedbacks to the teachers after the quizzes and express their feelings.

Students can give feedback for the Kahoot!

The students enjoyed their classes especially when it comes to digital technology!

Have a nice day :)