This activity begins with the teacher writing topic headings on the board or overhead. These topics can be anything, but it would be best to relate them to what is being studying. Under each topic the number 1-5 should be listed. When the game begins one person will try and list 5 items under 1 of the topic heading. The challenge is that the task must be completed in a certain amount of time. Have a stuffed animal, ball, or other object that will start with the student ready to list 5 items, and will be passed to all students. If the beginning student lists 5 items before the animal, ball, or other object gets back to them they win. If they do not succeed they lose. It is optional to provide prizes if they win or make them sit out if they lose. I do not think that is necessary because the students are so excited during the activity. It is more of a self test to see if they can list 5 items before the object is passed back to them.
I have developed a social studies sample below to help explain further.
1. On board or overhead the teacher will write the following.
2. A stuffed rooster will be the object passed. The teacher hands it to 1 student. They choose which way to pass the animal. When it is time to begin the student will begin passing, choose a category, and begin naming. For example the student says, "I choose countries." He or she begins to list countries out loud.
3. As the student names items 1-5 the teacher writes each under the Countries category.
Countries 1. USA 2. UK 3. Canada 4. Mexico 5. Peru
4. Teacher should affirm the student regardless of completing the challenge or not. If he or she could not complete it allow that student to try to finish. If he or she can't allow another student to help. 5. Now it is time for another student to begin & repeat steps 2-4.
Purpose: This activity encourages fast thinking & recall in a fun atmosphere.
Pros: 100% academic. Easy review. Quickly assess those still struggling. Can be adapted to any subject or lesson topic that has items to be listed. Can be made easier or harder by reducing the number 5 to 3 or 7 items.
Cons: Does not promote problem solving skills. This is not an activity that requires higher-order thinking. Only a recall activity. If 5 items listed are incorrect the teacher may accidentally reinforce incorrect material.
Student Objective: The student will be able to recall at least 5 items under a topic heading.
Source: Found & adapted slightly from the Online Education Blog Website, List of 100 sponge activities.