Bloxels Video Game Creation in 3rd Grade

Can 3rd graders really create their own video game?  YES!!  This fall, 3rd grade students were able to learn about animal survival in a particular habitat (NGSS Standard L-LS4-3) by creating and publishing their own video games, where their animal had to get to safety at the end of the game without dying.  In order to prepare for creating the game, the students had to first write a brief script that defined the habitat, animal that needed to survive, predators, food, and obstacles.  After writing the script, the 3rd graders dived deep into the Bloxel app to begin game creation.  Students had to navigate many different windows to make the complete game.  They designed the habitat, predators, and animals out of colored blocks. Then added art, power characteristics, animation and more to the blocks.  Furthermore, they tested their game over and over again to make sure the game was realistic, challenging and most importantly, fun!!  At the end of the unit they evaluated each other's games using a checklist and published their games to the internet.  Click on the link to visit a few of our favorite games on Wakelet.  Click the pictures to play the games!!  

By: Mrs. Grack, Director of School Technology