Are you looking for an engaging game that can easily be differentiated to meet all of your learners' needs? Well look no futher!
Zap games take a bit of prep to set up the first time, but after the initial set up it is super easy to swap out for new content.
Read on to find out the two main ways that I would recommend setting up the games:
When you purchase the product on TPT, you will get two different labels - the first has a set of three that you can cut out and glue onto your own decorative wrapping paper. The second label is already printed for you on decorative paper. You also get two sheets of game cards - this set is the alphabet version. :)
You can use whichever kind of container you would like for this game, but I prefer Pringles containers.
ASSEMBLY VERSION 1: If you want to use the decorative paper I have included in the file, simply print it out.
If you wrap it around the pringles container, you will notice it is just a smidge too small. You can either leave it like this, or first wrap a blank piece of white paper around the top of the container (see below) and then secure the decorative label on top. :)
ASSEMBLY VERSION 2: If you want to use your own wrapping paper, print out the page with the three labels and the blank background. Measure your wrap carefully, cut, and secure onto the can. Cut out the label and attach onto the wrapping paper. :)
Here is a side by side of each way to assemble. The first way is definitely easier, but I understand that teachers may have their own colour grouping/themes they may want to use, which is why I have included both versions.
Next, chop up all of the game cards! I would definitely recommend using a paper cutter to make it easier on you. Laminating them will make them last longer, but if you have gentle kiddos then cardstock will work fine too.
Fold them up, pop them into the container, and you are all set to play!
How to play ZAP games:
Kids can play independently, or in groups. I find 3-4 work best, but you can always have larger groups if you want.
Students will take turns drawing a card from the container. This is where you can differentiate as you see fit. For example, with the alphabet set, you can have the following levels of differentiation:
Level 1- identify the name of the letter
Level 2 - identify the sound of the letter
Level 3 - identify a word that starts with that letter
If the child gets the card correct, they can keep it in their pile. If they get it incorrect, they put it back.
If you draw a ZAP card, you put all of your cards back into the container!
Game play continues for a set amount of time (I usually say 10-15 minutes) and then the kids count up their cards. Whoever has the most is the winner!
I have individual sets avaliable on my TPT shop here, and I've just released a growing bundle option with massive savings:
Any questions? Please email me at aminimalistteacher@gmail.com or leave me a comment. :)
