Description

This is a “ready to go” 24 session Middle School Science class. Using the methodology of Edu-LARP (Educational Live Action Role Play), students will work together to save the human race as they create and populate their very own planet. This class covers Middle School Life Science based syllabus and complies with the NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards).  The syllabus is structured using what is referred to as the “blended story-line” to also cover different topics and standards in Earth & Space Science, as well as Physical Science/Chemistry NGSS.

Edu-LARP is when we use a story as a backdrop and game mechanics to create a fun and exciting joint story, learning all of the science as we journey throughout the adventure. The students are responsible for the outcome of the story by doing the homework and other projects, making an impact on their growing a developing planets. However, the entire time we “play the game” the cadets are learning about Ecology, Natural Selection, Matter Structure/Function, Energy and the Laws of Thermodynamics, to name just a few (please see list of NGSS and the overall syllabus at the end). In fact, it is how well the cadets do on the homework, labs, and quizzes that earn the kids certain benefits for their planets to grow, develop, and become the new home for humanity! We discuss the evolution from Atoms, to Chemicals, to Compounds, to unicellular organisms, and so on, until we reach a sentient being and society living in and intricate biomes on their planets. All of these topics are integrated into the story to give greater meaning to the students. There will be different encounters and story elements that will bring up the topics of science to make their planets flourish. In the end the final project is a brief history of your planet with both a visual and written portion. Then the vote to find our new home will begin!

Here is an intro to the story we will be creating this year:
They year is 3055. After decades of neglect and misuse of resources, the earth was on the verge of destruction. Humans decided to take to the stars and find other planets that we might make our new home. However, just as we were starting to have some success, an unknown, force known only as the Gammalons, bombarded the earth with their terrible planet bombs. With the need to save humanity accelerated, this group of cadets have volunteered to make “the jump” to Forward Base Epsilon, where they will each become a caretaker to a new primordial planet. The cadets have been chosen because they are the best, brightest, and most genius of our generation! They must develop their planet progress from its primordial stage, until it is filled with thriving biomes and with a dominate sentient species. We need you to be the savior of humanity! 

After 20 years of teaching and developing these Edu-LARP curriculums, I have discovered that this method of teaching helps the students remember the details and have meaningful attachment to the material. There are no “random facts to be tested on.” All the information and science topics taught are important for them to succeed at the game and bring their planet to life. Thus, giving the cadet a vested interest in learning the material, doing the work, and making memories about the science that are integrated into the memorable story we create together. Think of it as a very long fable that is teaching the science in a very real and personal manner. 

What you get:

• A one-on-one training session on how to use the
curriculum, digital battle maps, and how to run the class for maximum.
(More sessions can be purchased)
• Digital Science Master (SciM) Manual to help you prepare each session with rules, topics, and story information.
• 24 Fully animated slide presentations with a full script of what to say and when to say it.
• 21 Edu-LARP activities (Assignments) to reinforce science principles and build the planet.
• 10 Hands on Labs to be done either at home or in class with the students.
• Full Online Battle Maps access for every battle in your game.
• Google Classroom Set Up Available Upon Request
• Full set of Guided Notes for students.

Access to Google Folder with all materials and request for meeting time will arrive via email within 24 hours! (Usually faster)