Players can test their knowledge of important, interesting, or trivial facts in US history with a timed interactive game. The two mission options available on this tablet version focus on the events leading up to the Revolutionary War and on slavery.
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App Overview
Featuring two characters from the online version of the game, participants can undertake missions with Nat, a Boston printer's apprentice, or with Lucy, a 14-year-old Kentucky slave. Each correct response in Mission One moves the player closer to where Nat's lost dog is hiding. The correct responses in Mission Two move a message closer to Lucy's brother, Jonah. Jonah needs the information in the message to aid his escape from the King Plantation before he is auctioned off.
Instructional Ideas
Consider using the game as a challenge activity for those who like historical trivia or for those who finish other work early.
Classroom Considerations
- Because the focus is on speed, the resource is probably not a good match for those stressed by time limits.
- The educator guide can be found on the developer’s site for the much-expanded, online version of the game, but it is not available for this tablet version. It woud be worthwhile to check it out. The guide includes an overview, background information about the program, standards alignments, activities, primary sources, and training videos.
Pros
- Missions can be replayed with new questions
- Timer pauses after a response to afford players an opportunity to read the provided background information
- High scores for each quiz are recorded
- Players are encouraged to better their previous score
Cons
- Timing too fast for most players
- Even one incorrect response results in a "loss"
- After a loss, players are instructed to repeat the level and work faster
- Prompts and rejoinders are often negative