The Phylum Masquerade and Other Games

 

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2005, Volume 26

Abstract

These games are used at the end of our first semester introductory Biology course that focuses on diversity. Their purpose is to help students review the concepts and terminology of the animal phyla for their final exam. Done at the last lab of the semester, they not only let students realize that they probably need to do a little more review for the test, but they also end the semester in a very fun, positive way. Prizes are awarded that reflect the plant and animal groups the students have studied over the semester. These consist of a college cup filled with gummy worms, nuts, chocolate, candy canes , etc., wrapped in bench paper and lab tape. The games are very adaptable and could be used in a wide variety of courses for all levels of students.

Keywords:  educational game, taxonomy

Bowling Green State University, Ohio (2004)