LEVEL UP!

Exciting STEM and language arts lessons that use video game design as a teaching tool.

HOW TO GET STARTED

LEVEL UP! features a series of standards-based lessons that provide students with the knowledge and tools to design their own video games—right from the comfort of your classroom.
Video games are exciting, challenging, and a vital part of life for many teens. This year energize your students by using video games as an engaging educational tool to teach core language arts, math, and science concepts! Click here to review the research
Two versions of this easy-to-use program have been created. Here's how it works:
1) Look below and choose the best program for you and your students.

2) Teach the classroom-based lessons.

3) Reinforce students' new STEM, language arts, and/or social studies knowledge by having them build an original game.

4) Encourage students in grades 7–12 to submit their video game designs to the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards for a chance to win scholarships and awards! Deadline: January 9, 2012.
Get Inspired!
Professional game makers discuss the importance of video game design as a learning tool.
Beginner to Intermediate Level
Core Subjects: Language Arts, Visual Arts, Science, Math
These four lessons and worksheets are perfect for classes interested in using basic game design techniques to reinforce core skills.
Tool: Gamestar Mechanic
A Mythical Tale (English/Language Arts)
Students will use writing and research to learn about myths and storytelling.
An Escher Encounter (Art)
Students will learn about art and design by designing their own games.
Laws of the Jungle (Science, Math)
Students will learn about ecology by creating an environment for a game, complete with predators and prey.
Recipe for Disaster (Math)
Students will use ratios to construct rules for an original game.
About Gamestar Mechanic
Gamestar Mechanic is a learning platform designed to foster the development of 21st century skills while teaching the principles of game design. Visit Official Site >
Intermediate to Advanced Level
Core Subjects: Science, Math, Computer Science, and Physical Education
These four lessons and five worksheets are perfect for knowledgeable students looking for real-world applications of their science and math skills.
Tool: Activate!
Lesson 1: Systems Thinking: Creating a Digital World
Students will learn that the world is made up of systems.
Lesson 2: Action & Reaction: Writing Rules for Your World
Students will observe Newton’s Third Law of Motion in action.
Lesson 3: Problem Solving: How to Improve Your World
Students will learn how to solve problems using a technique called the iterative process.
Lesson 4: Build a World: Putting It All Together
Students will combine their understanding of systems, meaningful decisions, and the iterative process to create a new game.
About Activate!
Activate! is designed to help teens start taking real action on important issues like energy conservation, solar power, and pollution–instead of just thinking about it. By creating games about these topics, they'll be sharing what they know in fun and exciting new ways. Visit Official Site >
Need Help? Download the Gamestar Mechanic Learning Guide
Need Help? Download the Activate Learning Guide
Need more help? Email us >
Games for Educational Change
Why is game design a great classroom tool? Find out. Watch Video >
Teens!
Ludo Dojo is for apprentice game makers and the masters who train them. Connect to the resources you need to get started or to take it to the next level! Go Now >
Inspire Students
Learn more about the value of using video games to inspire students. Watch Video >
Be a Game Changer!
Your students could win scholarships and awards by creating an original video game for the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.
Deadline: January 9, 2012 Learn More >
Join the Globaloria Learning Network
Apply now for training and access to digital curriculum. Teach your students how to make educational web games using a real-world design process and professional tools. Visit Us >
Game Central
Check out these Scholastic Art & Writing Award-winning games!
"The Walls"
by Joshua Krieble
Play "Part 2" >
Play "Part 3" >
Watch Video > AMD Changing the Game is AMD's signature education program. The initiative, which is run by the AMD Foundation, enables teens to learn critical STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) skills and become more globally conscious citizens by developing digital video games with social content.