Having created a group identity, the pupils also created a group vehicle to represent them on the class track.  Interestingly, some went for bikes, some for cars, some for a banana!  The race track which some of the pupils created was to be used to in conjunction with the schools positive behaviour system.  In reality, this didn’t really happen, but the track could still be used to show the order in which teams would have use of the Wii, as a visual indicator to some of the pupils who really need that, and also as a reminder to myself, as to who has had a turn (not that the pupils were shy in reminding me!).  I think if we had planned the project for the first term, then it could have been used more heavily for positive behaviour.  As it was, the whole school policy was being followed, although the project is a great incentive and reward for pupils.

Coordinates

We have created our own tracks on A3 paper using the attached grid outline.  We then added coordinates to these sheets and used them to develop our understanding of grid references.  We also completed a brief outline description about our tracks.

Race Timer

We used the project to investigate time and averages.  A group timed another group racing a 3 lap race and then calculated the average lap time.  This did prove tricky for some, as we had to convert minutes and seconds to seconds first.  Some pupils haven’t really investigated time at all much, yet.  We also had stop watches available at the class Scaletrix track for use by pupils.  A typical record sheet looks like:

We spent some time developing new characters for the game.  This was a part of the project I really wanted to take to a bit more depth, linking to ICT, to the group reading books, comprehension and grammar.  I wanted to develop the use of rich language in describing characters.  I hoped the class would really see how this aids the reader in understanding, but also makes the writing so much more exciting.  To start with, we used a template, which included some basic character features, but also some linked specifically to Mario Kart.

We then developed the basic description after studying how we could use a metaphor or simile to enhance our writing.  Some went to town on this!

The class were set a homework task to design and construct a junk model Eco Mario Kart.  The results were excellent.  As with any homework task like this, you hope it doesn’t develop into a competition between parents to see what they can achieve!  On the whole, I would generally say, these were the pupil’s own work.  Like a number of the tasks in the project, this task allowed some of the less able, less prominent, pupils to shine, to really come to the forefront.  These were those that are maybe a bit quieter, less able with regard to literacy, it was great to see other pupils marvel at their creations!

Similar to a previous task, we collated ‘wow’ words that we would use to describe a crash scene:

A different version of our previous collection of positive wow words:

We are beginning to investigate the use of figurative and rich language for descriptions.  We started with a simple presentation to develop initial use of such language to describe some of the main characters from the game.

Five Fantastic Formula 1 Facts

A homework task, to try and involve parents, many of whom the pupils had said watch the racing. A long weekend, with a Grand Prix race on the Sunday, proved to be a great opportunity for this. With parents night following later in the week, this proved a good chance to bring up the subject of using the game as a context for learning. Some parents were surprised that we were using this resource, others delighted that pupils were so motivated.  I was delighted, and surprised, by the depth of knowledge the pupils came back with!

For a homework task, pupils compiled a list of wow words that they would use to describe winning a race, or taking part in an exciting race.  We then drew these together and fed the list into Wordle.  It is hoped we can then make use of these in short writing pieces, especially newspaper style reports and interviews.

Our budding racing drivers thought they’d like to have a look at a Grand Prix, to perhaps gain some useful tips.  So, the class planned a wee jolly to Abu Dhabi to watch the race, this weekend.  Pupils were tasked with pricing flights and a hotel for 2 or 3 nights.  They had to ensure they chose flights that allowed them to see the Grand Prix on the Sunday.  No budget was given for this task, as the last minute nature of the task meant that well priced flights were not available.  It also proved tricky to find a hotel in Abu Dhabi, obviously this is a busy weekend over there!

Pupils were given a starting point of a set of weblinks in their class Glow Group.  The task itself was also placed in Glow as a reference point.  One pupil who managed to find a well priced flight quite quickly then splurged over £5,000 on a hotel.  She was delighted, but informed us she couldn’t actually go as it was her dog’s birthday!

We also used Google Maps to calculate the distance we’d have to travel.  It helpfully informed us that the journey would take a few days, rather than the 8 hours by plane.

Part of the focus on team development is to promote the essence of team within each group.  Pupils chose a role from Manager, Press Agent, Mechanic or Driver.  They then created biographies for these fictional characters.  These would then be transformed into VOKI creations.  These characters will also be used to engage the pupils in drama activities later in the project.

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