As teachers, we know how important it is to keep our students engaged in the classroom. But sometimes history lessons can get dull and mundane, leading to a loss of enthusiasm.
To help spice things up, why not tap into the power of technology and incorporate some fun and interactive online games?
Not only will they give your class an extra burst of energy, but these educational games have been proven to help boost student engagement with history topics and enhance their knowledge retention!
Here are 10 of the best history games available online to easily add to your curriculum – let the learning begin!
Related: For more, check out our article on The Top Geography Online Games here.
1. Death in Rome
Death in Rome is a point-and-click adventure game developed by the BBC, which immerses players in the historical setting of Ancient Rome.
The game’s premise is set around a mysterious death, and players must wear their detective hats to unravel the circumstances behind this incident.
Set in 80 AD, the game introduces players to the character of Tiberius Claudius Eutychus. It becomes the player’s task to figure out who murdered him before dawn breaks.
This journey takes players through various aspects of life in ancient Rome, offering a rich, layered learning experience.
This game has also been used in academic settings as a tool for inquiry-based learning, reinforcing its educational value. By blending historical education with elements of mystery and intrigue, Death in Rome provides an engaging and interactive learning experience beyond traditional teaching methods.
URL: BBC History
2.Educational Games For KS3, KS4, KS5 Curriculum
As its name suggests, schoolhistory.co.uk is a platform that provides educational games tailored specifically for students studying at the KS3, KS4, and KS5 curriculum levels. These games are designed to test and enhance students’ knowledge of history, covering a wide range of topics from ancient civilizations to modern times.
In line with modern technological advancements, these games are now available in HTML 5 format, making them accessible on various devices and platforms.
This ensures that students can engage with the learning material anytime, anywhere, adding to the convenience and flexibility of this learning tool.
The interactive nature of these games challenges students to apply their historical knowledge in different contexts, thereby deepening their understanding of the subject.
Schoolhistory.co.uk provides an engaging and challenging learning experience that complements traditional classroom instruction by offering a comprehensive collection of educational history games.
Related: For more, check out our article on How To Promote Diversity In History Lessons here.
URL: schoolhistory.co.uk/games/
3. Sid Meier’s Civilization VI
Sid Meier’s Civilization VI is not just a game; it’s an immersive world simulation that offers a unique historical perspective. This game is recognized globally as an exceptional educational tool, providing players with an understanding of how civilizations developed, grew, and interacted throughout different historical periods. It’s a captivating journey through time!
URL: Common Sense Media
4. Race to Ratify (iCivics)
Race to Ratify is a fascinating game by iCivics that puts players in the pivotal role of a delegate to the Constitutional Convention. The mission? To gain support for the new Constitution.
This game provides an engaging and interactive way to learn about one of the most significant periods in U.S. history.
URL: iCivics
5. Mission US (THIRTEEN – New York Public Media)
Mission US offers an innovative and interactive approach to learning different periods in U.S. history.
It comprises a series of missions where players assume the roles of young individuals during various historical events. Each mission is intricately designed to provide an immersive learning experience that brings history to life.
URL: Mission US
6. Minecraft: Education Edition
Minecraft: Education Edition is a creative adaptation of the popular game that’s been tailored for educational purposes.
Teachers and students can utilize this platform to explore U.S. history in an engaging, immersive environment. It allows students to build their own historical landmarks, fostering a deeper understanding of historical events and figures.
URL: Minecraft Education
7. Halls of History – Online U.S. History Game
Halls of History offers a unique way to test your visual knowledge of American history.
The game spans various historical eras up until the Civil War, providing a diverse range of topics for players to explore. With its visually appealing interface and interactive elements, it’s a fun and engaging way to learn history.
URL: mrnussbaum.com
8. Hangman History
Hangman History adds a historical twist to the classic hangman game. It includes a variety of topics like the Age of Exploration, Medicine through Time, and the Battle of Little Bighorn.
Each round is a unique learning experience, offering players a fun way to test their knowledge of different historical periods.
URL: prometheanworld.com
9. Oregon Trail
The Oregon Trail game is a captivating simulation of 19th-century pioneer life on the Oregon Trail.
From planning the journey to making crucial decisions along the way, the game provides an authentic glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of the pioneers. It’s an educational activity that simulates real historical conditions, making learning history an exciting adventure.
URL: Classic Reload
10. Free Online Educational Games for American History
This interactive online platform is a goldmine for history buffs and students alike, offering many games that delve into various periods of American history.
From the time of Native Americans to the French and Indian War (1754-1763), each game provides in-depth insights and compelling narratives that make learning fun and engaging.
The games are categorized according to historical periods, allowing users to navigate their historical journey easily.
URL: wcsd.k12.sc.us
Enhancing Geography Learning in the Classroom and at Home
Have you ever wondered why geography is crucial in our education system? It’s because geography provides us with an understanding of the world around us. It’s more than just memorizing countries, capitals, and landmarks.
It’s about understanding how landscapes form, how cultures develop and interact, and how economic systems are influenced by their physical environments.
So, how can we ensure that geography is taught effectively in our classrooms and supported at home?
In the classroom, geography should be taught as an exciting exploration of our planet. Teachers can use interactive maps, globes, and other visual aids to bring geography to life.
They can incorporate technology like Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze spatial data, or virtual field trips to give students a firsthand look at different locations worldwide.
Additionally, real-world examples and current events can be used to illustrate geographic concepts, making lessons more relevant and engaging.
But what about at home? How can parents support this learning?
Parents can encourage their children’s interest in geography at home by incorporating it into everyday activities.
For instance, when planning a family trip, they can involve their child in the planning process, discussing different locations, climates, and cultures.
Parents can also use online resources, like educational games and apps, to make learning geography fun. Furthermore, discussing news stories related to geography can spark meaningful conversations and deepen understanding.
Remember, geography isn’t just about facts and figures. It’s about understanding the complex interconnections between people, places, and environments.
Teaching geography effectively in the classroom and supporting it at home can help our children become informed, globally aware citizens. Isn’t that a goal worth striving for?
FAQ
Q1: Why is history a vital subject to teach in schools?
History is crucial because it allows us to understand our past, which in turn allows us to understand our present.
Students gain a sense of identity and understanding of the world around them by learning about historical events, individuals, and periods. It also helps to develop critical thinking skills as students analyze sources and construct informed arguments.
Q2: How can I make history lessons engaging and interactive in the classroom?
Incorporate storytelling into your lessons, as narratives are often more memorable than facts alone. Use primary sources like letters, diaries, and photographs to bring history to life.
Incorporating technology, such as educational videos, digital archives, and online games can also make lessons more engaging and interactive.
Q3: How can parents support history learning at home?
Parents can encourage their children’s interest in history by discussing family histories, visiting museums or historical sites, and reading historical fiction together.
They can also use online resources, such as educational websites and apps, to further support learning.
Q4: What are some effective strategies for teaching complex historical events or concepts?
Breaking down complex topics into smaller parts can make them more manageable. Start with the basic facts before delving into the complexities. Use visuals, timelines, and mind maps to help students understand the sequence of events and their connections.
Encourage discussion and debate to help students explore different perspectives.
Q5: How can I incorporate current events into my history lessons?
Linking historical events to current issues can make history more relevant and engaging for students.
This could involve comparing past events to current ones, discussing how historical events have shaped the present, or exploring the historical context of current issues.
Remember, history isn’t just about memorizing dates and facts. It’s about understanding how the past has shaped our world today.
Teaching history effectively in the classroom and supporting it at home can help students develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the subject.
