Course Plan: The Impact of Gaming - Positive or Negative
Course Overview
This course aims to engage Year 5 students in discussions about the impact of gaming in their lives and society. Through a series of five lessons, students will explore both the positive and negative aspects of gaming and develop critical thinking and writing skills by responding to prompts with textual evidence.
Learning Objectives
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
- Identify and explain the positive and negative effects of gaming.
- Analyze various texts that discuss gaming.
- Construct a well-supported response to a prompt regarding the impact of gaming.
- Engage in respectful discussions and debates about gaming.
Lesson 1: Introduction to Gaming
Objectives
- Understand what gaming is.
- Explore various types of games and gaming platforms.
Activities
- Discussion: What games do you play? What do you enjoy about them?
- Group Activity: Create a list of different types of games (video games, board games, etc.) and their platforms (PC, console, mobile).
Homework
- Write a paragraph describing your favorite game and why you enjoy it.
Lesson 2: Positive Effects of Gaming
Objectives
- Identify positive aspects of gaming.
- Analyze a text that discusses the benefits of gaming.
Activities
- Reading Assignment: Students read an article about the cognitive benefits of gaming, such as improved problem-solving skills and teamwork.
- Discussion: What are some examples of how gaming can be beneficial?
Homework
- Write a short response detailing a positive impact of gaming observed in your life or among your peers, supported by examples from the reading.
Lesson 3: Negative Effects of Gaming
Objectives
- Identify negative aspects of gaming.
- Analyze a text that discusses the drawbacks of gaming.
Activities
- Reading Assignment: Students read an article detailing issues such as gaming addiction and its impact on social interactions.
- Discussion: Discuss personal experiences related to the negative effects of excessive gaming.
Homework
- Write a brief response reflecting on a negative impact of gaming, supported by examples from the text.
Lesson 4: Balancing Gaming in Life
Objectives
- Discuss the importance of balance when it comes to gaming.
- Explore strategies for healthy gaming habits.
Activities
- Group Brainstorm: What are ways to enjoy gaming responsibly?
- Guest Speaker: A local gamer shares experiences of maintaining balance in gaming and other life activities.
Homework
- Create a personal gaming plan that includes guidelines for how much time to spend gaming each week along with other activities (homework, sports, family time).
Lesson 5: Writing a Supportive Argument
Objectives
- Construct a well-supported response to a prompt about gaming.
- Utilize evidence from readings and personal experiences.
Activities
- Prompt Discussion: "Is gaming more positive than negative?"
- Writing Workshop: Students draft a response, incorporating evidence from texts and their own experiences.
Homework
- Finalize and submit their written response, ensuring to support their argument with examples and explanations from both positive and negative perspectives.
Assessment
Students will be assessed on:
- Participation in discussions and activities.
- Quality of their written responses.
- Ability to present arguments supported by text evidence.
This plan encourages Year 5 students to think critically about the role of gaming in their lives while improving their reading and writing skills. The mix of activities and discussions aims to create an engaging learning environment focused on an issue relevant to their experiences.