fun review games for middle schoolers

Okay, so the other day, I was trying to figure out how to make my middle schoolers actually want to review stuff. You know, instead of just staring blankly at worksheets. I mean, who can blame them, right? So, I went on a mission to find some fun review games.

First, I brainstormed a bit. What do kids this age even like? What gets them competitive without being, like, too crazy? I jotted down some initial ideas, mostly based on games I remembered from when I was their age (which, ahem, was a little while ago).

My Game Plan

• Jeopardy-style: This seemed classic, but I was worried it might be a bit…dry.
• Bingo: Always a possibility, easy to set up.
• “Trashketball”: Where they answer questions and then try to throw a crumpled paper ball into a trash can for extra points. I’ve seen teachers use this.
• Some kind of online thing: There are a ton of educational game websites out there, maybe something there?

Then, I hit the internet. I searched for things like “middle school review games” and “engaging classroom activities.” Let me tell you, there is a LOT out there. It was a bit overwhelming, to be honest. I spent a good hour just clicking through different websites and teacher blogs.

I found a few interesting options. One was this online platform, I can’t remember the name off the top of my head, that lets you create custom quizzes that look like game shows. You input the questions and answers, and it formats everything. Sounded promising!

I also stumbled upon some variations of the “Trashketball” idea. One teacher had students work in teams, and each team had a different colored ball so they could keep track of points. Another had different “levels” of shots for different point values – like, a close shot was worth 1 point, a medium shot 2, and a super-far shot 3. Smart!

So, I decided to try a combination of things. I created a Jeopardy-style game using that online platform. I divided the class into teams, and I even added a “physical challenge” component – after each question, they had to do something silly like five jumping jacks or a quick dance move to earn a bonus point. It was totally goofy, but they loved it!

The online Jeopardy thing worked pretty well, although there were a few technical glitches. (Always have a backup plan, people!) The physical challenges were a HUGE hit. They were laughing, they were moving, and – most importantly – they were actually remembering the material! It made my heart smile.

It took some time to plan everything to be sure, and for next time I plan to start organizing review games far in advance of the exam date. Next time, I’ll start planning the review games well in advance.

Overall, I’d say it was a success. It definitely wasn’t perfect, but it was way more engaging than just handing out a review packet. Plus, it gave me some good ideas for next time. Middle schoolers – they’re a tough crowd, but they’re also pretty fun when you find the right way to connect with them. Review games can be a great way to help students while also having fun.