2 minute read
Scavenger Hunt
This activity focuses on getting students to find information using reading or speaking skills. It is useful for introducing a variety of topics or themes from something “big,” such as a neighborhood, to something more particular, such as rules and regulations of a class or institution, or even getting to know a textbook. Scavenger Hunt is typically played in teams, so it is also useful as a team-building exercise.
Preparation
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The instructor prepares the list of questions on a worksheet based on the theme of the scavenger hunt. Room should be left for the answers. For a sample of a scavenger hunt based on this book, see page 13.
Procedure
1. Put students in groups (by counting off, those wearing similar color of clothing, etc.). 2. Groups work together to find the answers to the questions on the worksheet. To facilitate working together, groups should share one worksheet. 3. The first group to complete the worksheet with the correct answers wins.
Variations When to Use It
• To give an overview of something to the students (location, institution, class, textbook) • To build teams • To provide critical thinking practice
Level
Depending on questions chosen
Skills
Practice
Materials
Worksheet for each group
Preparation Time
10–20 minutes
Activity Time
15–30 minutes
This activity can be made with very straightforward questions or turned into a puzzle to make it more challenging and tap into critical thinking. For the latter, an answer can be the next clue to the following answer.
Straightforward: What is the number of the classroom? (e.g., 415) More difficult: What is the sum of the digits of the classroom? (10) Even more difficult: The number ten is the sum of this location number. (415) Answer becomes another clue: What is the title of the page that equals the sum of the classroom?
