Page 2 Code Book



Critical Viewing

Critical viewing means taking a closer look at positive and negative qualities of a work. For example, to critically view a video game, you would examine the effects of the following:
  • directions for playing
  • colours
  • sounds
  • images
  • rewards

Interactive 

Consider a video game that you have played in the past. Games on a table or phone count, too.

Was there ever a time during game play where you felt frustrated? What caused that frustration? Was it a lack of instructions? Lack of effort? Was the level tricky? Consider a video game that you have played in the past. Games on a table or phone count, too.


Video Game Literacy

Are there elements of literacy in video games? 

Yes, there are!

Video games, no matter how basic or how complex include many elements of literacy. 

  • Words (writing) 
  • Words (reading)
Could we play video games if there were no words (instructions)? Technically, yes, we could, but it would take us a lot longer to figure out how to play if games did not include any words.



Video Game Code Book

Four familiar and predictable aspects of video games are as follows:
  1. Video games use discovery learning or hands-on learning to engage players.

  2. A game is not easy, but it is not impossible. The player is challenged but not overly frustrated. The player wants to complete the tasks in the game. Often, the virtual world is constructed in such a way that learners learn not only about the game, but also about themselves and their current and potential capacities.

  3. Often, games have various levels. After the player has practiced at one level, he or she moves to the next. Players take risks and face consequences. Knowledge and skills learned early in the game are useful later.  

  4. Video games can teach many skills and can be incorporated into various subjects. Often, the player can work with others or teach others the game.


Creativity Time

  If you would like to put your creativity to the test, try creating your own video game using Sploder. Make sure to ask your parents for permission before creating an account.



  Please contact your teacher if you have questions.