Game On: Unleash Your Inner Math Master!

High School Grade

Project
4 weeks

Game On: Unleash Your Inner Math Master!

Moses Roberts

CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-APR.A.1

CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-APR.D.7

CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-CED.A.1

CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-CED.A.3

CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-CED.A.4

+ 17 more

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage high school students in Algebra 1 and Geometry by having them design math-based video games using GoDot or GDevelop. Through this hands-on experience, students will integrate algebraic and geometric concepts into game mechanics, fostering a deeper understanding of mathematical principles while tapping into their interests in gaming. The project aims to make math learning enjoyable and relevant, encouraging students to creatively apply their knowledge in a real-world context, and to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through collaborative game design.

Learning goals

Students will develop proficiency in polynomial and rational expression operations, applying these skills to create engaging game mechanics. They will construct and solve equations and inequalities to model real-world scenarios within their games, enhancing their understanding of algebraic concepts. Through the integration of geometric definitions and theorems, students will design unique characters and game environments, demonstrating their ability to apply geometric principles creatively. Additionally, students will employ coordinate geometry and volume calculations to solve spatial challenges, fostering a deeper comprehension of these mathematical concepts.

Standards

CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-APR.A.1 - Understand that polynomials form a system analogous to the integers, namely, they are closed under the operations of addition, subtraction, and multiplication; add, subtract, and multiply polynomials.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-APR.D.7 - (+) Understand that rational expressions form a system analogous to the rational numbers, closed under addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division by a nonzero rational expression; add, subtract, multiply, and divide rational expressions.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-CED.A.1 - Create equations and inequalities in one variable and use them to solve problems. Include equations arising from linear and quadratic functions, and simple rational and exponential functions.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-CED.A.3 - Represent constraints by equations or inequalities, and by systems of equations and/or inequalities, and interpret solutions as viable or nonviable options in a modeling context.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-CED.A.4 - Rearrange formulas to highlight a quantity of interest, using the same reasoning as in solving equations.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-REI.A.2 - Solve simple rational and radical equations in one variable, and give examples showing how extraneous solutions may arise.
CCSS.Math.Practice.MP1 - Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.
CCSS.Math.Practice.MP2 - Reason abstractly and quantitatively.
CCSS.Math.Practice.MP6 - Attend to precision.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.A.1 - Know precise definitions of angle, circle, perpendicular line, parallel line, and line segment, based on the undefined notions of point, line, distance along a line, and distance around a circular arc.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.A.3 - Given a rectangle, parallelogram, trapezoid, or regular polygon, describe the rotations and reflections that carry it onto itself.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.A.4 - Develop definitions of rotations, reflections, and translations in terms of angles, circles, perpendicular lines, parallel lines, and line segments.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.B.8 - Explain how the criteria for triangle congruence (ASA, SAS, and SSS) follow from the definition of congruence in terms of rigid motions.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.C.10 - Prove theorems about triangles.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.C.11 - Prove theorems about parallelograms.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.C.9 - Prove theorems about lines and angles.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.D.13 - Construct an equilateral triangle, a square, and a regular hexagon inscribed in a circle.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-GMD.A.3 - Use volume formulas for cylinders, pyramids, cones, and spheres to solve problems.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-GMD.B.4 - Identify the shapes of two-dimensional cross-sections of three-dimensional objects, and identify three-dimensional objects generated by rotations of two-dimensional objects.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-GPE.B.6 - Find the point on a directed line segment between two given points that partitions the segment in a given ratio.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-GPE.B.7 - Use coordinates to compute perimeters of polygons and areas of triangles and rectangles, e.g., using the distance formula.
CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-MG.A.1 - Use geometric shapes, their measures, and their properties to describe objects (e.g., modeling a tree trunk or a human torso as a cylinder).

Products

Students will create a math-based adventure game where players solve polynomial and rational expression puzzles to progress through levels, featuring unique characters inspired by geometric shapes and algebraic concepts. Additionally, they will develop a sports-themed math game that uses geometric principles to simulate real-world scenarios, such as calculating angles and trajectories, with characters named after famous mathematicians. Furthermore, students will design a role-playing game where algebraic equations and inequalities unlock new abilities and navigate through a storyline, with characters representing different math concepts. Each game will incorporate core mathematical content and standards, providing an engaging and educational experience for players.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Math Game Brainstorm Bonanza,' where students form teams to generate innovative game ideas that incorporate algebraic and geometric concepts. Use creative prompts and challenges to inspire students, and provide them with resources on game mechanics and character creation. This collaborative session will set the stage for a dynamic and engaging project, encouraging students to think critically and creatively about how to integrate math standards into their game designs.

Exhibition

Host a 'Game Jam Showcase' where students present their math-based games to peers, teachers, and community members, with interactive stations for attendees to play and experience the games firsthand. Organize a 'Math Game Festival' at the local community center, inviting families and friends to explore student-created games, participate in math challenges, and enjoy themed snacks like Takis. Create a 'Virtual Game Expo' where students upload their games to a shared online platform, allowing participants from around the world to play, rate, and provide feedback on each game. Coordinate a 'Math and Games Fair' in partnership with the community library, where students set up booths to demonstrate their games and explain the math concepts involved, engaging the public in interactive learning experiences.

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Kick off the project with a 'Math Game Brainstorm Bonanza,' where students form teams to generate innovative game ideas that incorporate algebraic and geometric concepts. Use creative prompts and challenges to inspire students.	Participate in a 'Game Design Bootcamp' day with interactive workshops led by local game developers and math educators, focusing on the basics of game mechanics, character creation, and integrating math standards into gameplay.	Engage in a 'Math Game Hackathon,' where students work in small groups to rapidly prototype a simple math-based game concept using GoDot or GDevelop, with guidance from mentors.	Facilitate a 'Math in Motion' activity where students participate in outdoor games and challenges that demonstrate geometric and algebraic principles, connecting physical movement to game design concepts.	Begin drafting a 'Game Design Document' outlining the basic game idea, target audience, core mathematical concepts to be included, and initial sketches of characters and game elements.
Deliverables	1. Submit a completed 'Game Design Document' including game concept, educational goals, and initial character sketches.
Preparation	1. Arrange partnerships with local game developers and math educators for workshops. 2. Prepare materials for the 'Math Game Brainstorm Bonanza,' including creative prompts and ideation templates. 3. Set up accounts and tutorials for using GoDot or GDevelop, ensuring students have access and basic understanding. 4. Organize logistics for the 'Math in Motion' activity, including any necessary equipment and safety measures. 5. Provide resources and examples of Game Design Documents to guide students in their drafting process.

Week 2	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Finalize and refine game mechanics, ensuring alignment with chosen algebraic and geometric concepts. Students focus on integrating polynomial operations and rational expressions into gameplay.	Design and develop initial game levels, incorporating equations and inequalities to represent constraints and challenges within the game. Students work on creating puzzles and tasks that require solving these equations to progress.	Collaborate with a local artist or graphic designer to create unique game characters and visual elements. Students will sketch and digitally render characters, applying geometric definitions and principles.	Conduct a peer review session where students present their game mechanics and initial levels to classmates for feedback, focusing on mathematical accuracy and engagement.	Continue building the game using GoDot or GDevelop, applying coding skills to implement the game mechanics and levels designed. Students receive guidance from mentors to troubleshoot and enhance their coding.
Deliverables	1. Submit a storyboard or flowchart outlining the game's progression, including integrated math challenges and solutions. 2. Provide a draft of character designs and game visuals, incorporating geometric principles and unique character names. 3. Deliver a prototype of at least one fully functional game level that demonstrates the use of equations and inequalities.
Preparation	1. Coordinate with a local artist or graphic designer to facilitate a workshop on character design, providing materials and software for students. 2. Prepare resources and tutorials on integrating algebraic and geometric concepts into game mechanics, ensuring students have access to examples and guidance. 3. Organize a peer review session, including a rubric for constructive feedback on mathematical integration and creativity. 4. Set up coding support sessions with mentors from a local game development studio to assist students in implementing their game mechanics. 5. Ensure all necessary software is installed and functioning, and provide troubleshooting resources for students using GoDot or GDevelop.

Week 3	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Conduct a 'Game Mechanics Deep Dive' session where students focus on refining their game logic and ensuring seamless integration of polynomial operations and rational expressions into gameplay.	Facilitate a 'Level Design Workshop' where students create complex game levels that incorporate geometric transformations and congruence criteria, encouraging collaboration and peer feedback.	Host a 'Coding and Debugging Lab' where students work on finalizing their game code, with a focus on solving rational and radical equations in gameplay contexts, supported by coding mentors.	Organize a 'Character and Environment Design Sprint' for students to finalize the visual elements of their games, ensuring characters and environments reflect geometric and algebraic concepts accurately.	Implement a 'Playtest and Feedback Day' where students present their nearly complete games to peers and community partners, collecting detailed feedback for final revisions.
Deliverables	1. Submit a refined game mechanics document that details how polynomial operations and rational expressions are integrated into the game. 2. Provide a completed set of game levels with detailed descriptions of geometric transformations and congruence challenges. 3. Deliver a playtest-ready version of the game, incorporating peer and mentor feedback into the coding and design.
Preparation	1. Arrange for coding mentors to assist during the 'Coding and Debugging Lab,' ensuring they have access to students' projects and necessary software. 2. Prepare a rubric and guidelines for the 'Playtest and Feedback Day' to facilitate constructive critique focused on mathematical integration and game engagement. 3. Set up resources and materials for the 'Level Design Workshop' that include examples of geometric transformations and congruence in gaming contexts. 4. Coordinate with community partners to participate in the playtesting session, providing external perspectives and feedback. 5. Ensure all equipment and software are functioning properly for students to finalize and test their games, providing technical support as needed.

Week 4	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4	Day 5
Activities	Conduct a 'Final Touches and Polish' session where students refine their game visuals, enhance user interfaces, and ensure smooth functionality through rigorous testing.	Facilitate a 'Game Launch Preparation' workshop where students create marketing materials such as game trailers, posters, and descriptions to promote their games for the showcase event.	Organize a 'Peer and Mentor Review' day where students present their final games to a panel of peers and mentors, focusing on the clarity of mathematical concepts and overall engagement.	Host a 'Reflection and Presentation Rehearsal' where students prepare their presentation pitches, reflecting on their learning journey and the mathematical concepts integrated into their games.	Coordinate the 'Game Jam Showcase' event, where students launch their completed games to the school community, receiving feedback from attendees and celebrating their achievements.
Deliverables	1. Submit a polished, final version of the game, incorporating feedback from playtesting and ensuring all mathematical concepts are accurately represented. 2. Create and present a marketing package, including a game trailer, promotional poster, and a brief description highlighting the educational aspects of the game. 3. Prepare a presentation pitch that outlines the game's development process, mathematical concepts, and reflections on learning experiences.
Preparation	1. Arrange logistics for the 'Game Jam Showcase,' including venue setup, promotional materials, and coordinating with community partners for attendance. 2. Prepare guidelines and templates for marketing materials to assist students in creating effective promotional content. 3. Organize a panel of mentors and peers for the 'Peer and Mentor Review' to provide diverse feedback on the final games. 4. Set up resources and materials for the 'Reflection and Presentation Rehearsal,' providing students with prompts to guide their reflections. 5. Ensure all technical equipment and software are functioning optimally for the final game presentations and showcase event.