Breakout EDU is a collaborative game where participants work together to solve a series of critical thinking clues and puzzles in order to open a locked box. Problem solving strategies are developed as each team works together to solve each mystery in a real life collaborative environment. This is a very student-centered, inquiry-based game that can be used to teach many core content standards.

Breakout EDU
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FACILITATE A GAME

Establish Norms
  • Stay in boundaries
  • Do not break anything open
  • Do not write on materials (unless otherwise noted)
  • Questions may or may not be answered
  • Team Photo
Facilitation Tips
  • Determine group size
  • Determine boundaries
  • Allow kids to struggle
  • Circulate
  • Pick up locks as they are opened
  • Collect materials as clues are solved
  • Obtain facilitation bag

MANAGEMENT TIPS

  • Pick up locks as they are opened
  • Reset all number locks to 000 or 0000
  • Reset directional lock to NEWS
  • Reset new directional locks to all UP.
  • Reset word lock to SPELL
  • Designate ONE person to be in charge of locks
  • Visit Lock Care Tips
  • Be ready to reset room
5 Tips for Students
  • Work as a team
  • Communicate and collaborate
  • Make sure your team knows when you solve a puzzle
  • Come together intermittently to share what you know
  • Decide as a team when to use a hint card
Typical Directions
  • 45 minute time limit to open the box
  • Clues are hidden (almost) anywhere in the room
  • Participants must stay within boundaries
  • Every team member must agree to cash in a hint card
  • Questions will only be answered when a hint card​ ​is cashed in

REFLECTION

  • What did you learn about yourself?
  • Describe how one of the puzzles in the game was solved.
  • Did everyone in the team have an opportunity to contribute?
  • What advice would you give to others who were just starting to play their Breakout EDU?
  • How might you use this in your instructional environment?

DESIGN YOUR OWN GAME


ADDITIONAL RESOURCES