While attending the James Madison Legacy Institute this summer, I was introduced to many wonderful instructional strategies. As I begin implementation of these, one I've incorporated recently in my classroom is History Dominos. Played much like the traditional game, this version provides students with a challenging, yet fun way to learn content. 

To set up, simply type the key people, places, dates, events, etc., onto opposite ends of your domino template, laminate if you wish, and randomly hand out to you students. In my class, I cleared my tables and chairs and used the floor space with the kids gathered in a circle. Each took turns making connections and verbalizing "how" the two touching ends related. 

This activity requires higher level thinking. Students were challenged to think beyond basic flashcard facts. They had to make relevant connections and explain their reasoning which can be difficult for middle schoolers. 

THIS is a game-changer! My kids absolutely loved it and the results were amazing. I used it as a review for our second common assessment.  I loved this activity because it allowed me to assess my students on the fly and correct  or affirm as we played. As a result, my overall average went up 10 points from our first common assessment! I teach six classes with a total of 120 students. I cannot tell you how excited I was to facilitate this activity. I look forward to implementing it with each new unit.

I am including a template I created in Google Slides in which you can quickly add your terms. Have fun and watch your student engagement soar!

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/17Ha9tLMuDoHNbMEVO7IKeuTXyfpUsskze6WtsvLoU40/copy