CSC 216 F09/JavaWar
Java War
The Problem
Many Computer Science students are good at coding, but when asked to explain what they are doing, they are unable to use the right terms. Java War is a game that is easy to set up, but will help Computer Science students learn the correct Java terms, which will help them sound professional, and also help them to communicate with other programmers.
Participants and Props
Any number of students can be used, but the minimum is two students, and someone to act like a moderator. For props, flash cards need to be drawn up in the format of the definition of the term on one side, and the name of the definition on the other side. If two buzzers (like those used on game shows) are available, those are welcome, but not necessary. A stopwatch is extremely useful, as the students answers will be timed.
The Script
Set-up
Divide the students into two equal teams. Pick two from opposing teams, and have them come up to the front of the room and face each other. If you are using buzzers, but one in front of each student. If not, have the students put one hand above the desk, and the other behind their back. You may have someone act as a scorekeeper, but it is not necessary. The moderator should also be up at the front of the classroom between the two students.
Begin
The moderator should pick one of the flash cards and then read the definition out loud. The first student to either put their hand on the desk, or hit the buzzer, should then be asked to say the term matching the definition out loud. As soon as the students signal that they have an answer start the stopwatch. The student will have 30 seconds to answer the question. If they answer correctly, their team gets two points. If the student does not answer correctly, the opposing student is then asked by the moderator if they know the correct term. Start the stopwatch and the student has 30 seconds to answer. If the opposing student gets the question right, their team gets one point, and if not, neither team gets a point. You can then have two different students come up, or keep the same students up at the front of the class. You can decide. Keep doing this until all the flash cards are done, and then you can determine a winner based on the points.
Tie Breaker
If there is a tie at the end of the game, the moderator can create a tie breaker by asking the students to write a piece of code. The type and purpose of the code can be based on what the students are currently learning at the moment. The student that finishes first and gets it right, is declared the winner.