Stage 1 “The Learning Zone” English Project

2M are taking part in the following English/Minecraft project. It is hard as they must learn how to navigate the space, keyboard control keys and read at the same time. This is also tricky when you have small hands and have to use both of them simultaneously. For many students this is the first time they are using this program which has been specially modified for teachers. The reading in-world and crafting of tools exposes them to different forms of sense making/comprehension as they problem solve the task. Already there are student experts on hand to guide other students who are having difficulty. Finally, the students are documenting their experiences and creating illustrations reflecting their learning.

Task:

• Students work in group rotations to problem solve how to craft items. There are 4 different sections to complete, each one building on the previous learning. Zone 1: Crafting / Zone 2: Building Bridges / Zone 3: Making Numbers / Zone 4: Pyramid Building.
• Students must navigate information supplied to correctly complete each task. They need to interpret the information presented, explain how the information contributes to an understanding of the task and recount the information and additional relevant learning in their English journals. Students will finally compose a brief summary of their overall experience guided by class created assessment criteria that reflects their learning, highlighting difficulties, what they enjoyed the most/least etc.

The MinecraftEdu map being used is called ‘The Learning Zone’ and was created by teacher Mr Solomon. Educators’ click on this link to access the download: The Learning Zone

Mrs Booth and Mrs Mellitas