Minecraft

Minecraft is a sandbox game that allows its players to build many things by placing different blocks together. Users can create a 3d world by using different tools. There are also many other activities included in Minecraft for example, combat, resources gathering and exploration. There are different gameplay modes available and players can choose any mode that they want. It is a famous game that has also won several awards.

Here is how Minecraft works:

1. The first step is to purchase it. It can be purchased from the official website of Minecraft. Once you have purchased it, install it on your computer before you start playing.

2. The second step involves opening the Minecraft launcher. Minecraft app icon will look like a simple block of dirt. Double click on this icon to launch Minecraft.

3. Enter your login details and click on the green “play” button.

4. On the top of the main menu bar, you will find a button named “single player”. Click on this button.

5. Now click on “create new world” button.

6. A text box will appear at the top of the window. Enter the name of your world in this text box.

7. In this step, you can adjust different world’s options such as the world type.

8. Again, click on “create new world” button.

Tip

Before you start, learn the functions of Minecraft so that you can play it properly. To learn functions on your desktop, click on Esc > options > controls. 

One of the most fun projects that your elementary students can do in Minecraft is to build a school. Here is how it can be done:

Building a Minecraft School

1. The first step is to build a big rectangle. Use 20 blogs for width and 40 blocks for length. Use a glass to make the roof of your school. Also, use andesite to make the floor. We are using glass so that we can easily provide light to our school.
2. The next step is to add classrooms in your school. To do this, build walls that are 6 blocks wide and 10-12 blocks long. Again, use glass to make the roof. Use green clay to put a chalkboard on the front wall of every classroom.
3. The third step is to build principal’s office of your school. As it will be an office, therefore making it nice and fancy is important. You can use quartz to create walls. Add some nice windows and put some notes and papers behind the desk.
4. The fourth step is to decorate your school. Use your imagination in this step. Put signs and directions outside the classrooms so that you can stay organized.
5. The next step is to create cafeteria and gym for your school. You can place a running track and a soccer field. Place gym outside and cafeteria near to the classrooms.

The last step is to add lockers and other important stuff such as notice boards. Add flowers, windows, and other items to your school as well. Have fun!

Alignment with the iTECH Model 

1. Inspire: Introduce Minecraft EDU by showing examples of incredible structures and worlds built by other students or players. Discuss the potential of Minecraft as a learning tool not just for building but also for understanding subjects like history, science, and math.

2. Try: Start by letting students explore the Minecraft environment, understand basic controls, and experiment with building simple structures. Encourage them to explore different materials and tools within the game.

3. Expand: Introduce a structured activity, such as building a simple house or recreating a historical landmark. Teach students about scale, measurement, and spatial reasoning as they build.

4. Create: Assign a project, like building a school in Minecraft, where students apply the skills they’ve learned. Encourage them to plan their design, consider functionality and aesthetics, and collaborate with peers.

5. Huddle: Have students present their Minecraft projects to the class. Facilitate discussions on their design choices, the challenges they faced, and how they solved problems.

Tips for Effective Implementation 

1. Set Clear Objectives: Define what you want students to learn or achieve through the Minecraft project.

2. Collaborative Learning: Encourage students to work in teams, fostering collaboration and communication skills.

3. Integrate Curriculum: Use Minecraft projects to complement and enhance lessons in history, science, art, and more.

Role of Educators

As facilitators, educators can guide students in using Minecraft EDU as a learning tool, ensuring  the gaming aspect is balanced with educational objectives. Support students in project planning, problem-solving, and applying classroom learning to their Minecraft creations.

Minecraft EDU offers an engaging and versatile platform for educational projects, encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. By integrating Minecraft with the iTECH Model, educators can transform traditional lessons into interactive, hands-on learning experiences. Whether building a school, exploring historical sites, or engaging in scientific experiments, Minecraft can play a significant role in making learning fun and relevant for students.