Looking for a new and fun way to use task cards with your students? Try the Kagan cooperative learning game Quiz, Quiz, Trade. One reason this game is popular with both kids and teachers is that it gets your students up and moving. Not only that but you can also use it to review pretty much any subject. Here is how to play:
- Select a set of task cards for the activity. Task cards with multiple choice or concrete short answers will work best. Write the answer for each card in small print on the back (possibly in a lower corner). You can use dry-erase pens if you do not want to keep the answers there.
- Give each student a task card.
- Partner students.
- Partner 1 asks Partner 2 the question on her card. Partner 2 answers (or admits he doesn’t know). Partner 1 acknowledges a correct answer or gives the answer, if needed.
- The process reverses with Partner 2 asking the questions.
- After both questions have been asked, the partners switch cards, find new partners, and the process begins again.
If you have never played this game, you will want to model it with two volunteers first, and then make sure that students know the rules. Depending on your students, you may want to establish the following rules:
- No running
- No refusing to partner with someone
- Treat partners with courtesy
When you feel like you have played long enough (five to 10 minutes is usually about right), collect the cards and go over them together. Another variation of this game is to give each student an index card and have them each write a question before you begin the game.