What can we do with our technology that we just couldn't do before. That was my thinking when it came to my Israel Tiny Tap Project. The game works best on an iPad. Also, you will need to have sound.
Our students learn best when they are given the chance to explore the content in a self-directed way. The content I made allows for multiple entry-points, depending on personal interest. Students can choose Jerusaem, Masada, Tel Aviv, etc. These would then lead the students to more choices and more information. Masada is a great example - the different smiley faces have different tidbits about what life for the zealots may have been like for Masada. One leads to a page with a (stock) photo of some children at Masada. Clicking on each face plays a short audio clip of them describing their experiences. Students could grow up hearing and seeing these stories, knowing that - when they go to Israel - they can add their own story to the app. It makes the learning much more personal, rather than hearing it from a text book or teacher.
I also included buttons on the first page on most of the countries in the Middle East. I think it is important that our students know the surrounding countries - or at least know how to say them correctly. This also gives the students more choice - those who don't want to just click on Israel have a useful diversion that still teaches them something important.
I would use this game - and other Tiny Tap games that allow this kind of exploration - in my classroom in two ways. First, on certain days I would have the whole class use the program to learn - by the end of the period each child would need to share one or two new things they just learned. Secondly, if students finish work early, or if they arrive to class early, I'd let them use these games, which allows them to use downtime more effectively, and they may learn a thing or two without even realizing it.
Making this game took a very long time - I'd say maybe 2.5 hours for what I've got now, and I know I'm not even finished yet. However, this kind of game can be used for several years, and I believe it is a good investment of my time. But do know, if you want to make something similar, it is time consuming and at times tedious. However, it is well worth the effort!
