Daily News Lesson Roundup: Video Games
As time goes on, video games are becoming a bigger part of our global popular culture — and people from all generations enjoy firing up their favorite console, or even slipping on a pair of VR goggles.
So for students who like video games, and even for those who are just curious, here are ten Daily News lessons about games, the people who play them and their impact on our society.
Study: Video Games Don’t Affect Cognition in Children
Level 6: Intermediate
Given the popularity of games among young people, it's no surprise that there are many experiments studying the effect they can have on growth and development.
Both parents and students with an interest in science should find this article interesting.
Animals Like Video Games, Too
Level 5: Intermediate
Here's a unique combination many people have probably never thought of: video games and animals. Can your students think of any situation in which animals may be exposed to games or interactive technology?
Neuralink Implant Lets Man Play Mario Kart with His Mind
Level 7: Advanced
Game technology has evolved from simple controls like joysticks with a single button to modern advancements such as virtual reality headsets and devices that detect motion. But what if you didn't need to use your limbs at all to control a game?
Video Game Performers Protest Over Use of AI
Level 8: Advanced
Advancements in AI have brought lots of convenience as well as plenty of controversy. Particularly for people whose jobs are directly affected, AI can be more of a threat than an exciting new tool.
This topic will likely generate some interesting discussion with higher-level students on the ethics of new technology.
Why Do People Watch Other People Play Video Games?
Level 7: Advanced
For many people, simply watching games being played — rather than playing them directly — is entertaining. Some players have earned lots of fans and money by playing online for others to watch.
But what's the appeal for the viewers? Have your students ever done this?
The Best-Selling Video Games of All Time
Level 7: Advanced
Before reading this article, ask your students what their guesses would be for the best-selling games ever. You'll likely get a surprising variety of answers depending on their age and how deeply they're into video games as a hobby.
First Video Game 'Olympics' Held in Singapore
Level 6: Intermediate
In an attempt to attract younger viewers, the official Olympic Games have been including new events in recents years, such as skateboarding and breaking. Could video games be far behind?
Video Game Hall of Fame Announces New Inductees
Level 8: Advanced
We've already listed an article about the biggest-selling games, but are they all worthy to be inducted into the hall of fame? What games would your students' personal hall of fame include?
Video Game Offers Rare Glimpse Into 1979 Iranian Revolution
Level 9: Proficient
Games often place players in fantasy worlds very different from our own. That means those that use the medium to teach about real-world places and events really stand out — and the game in this lesson is just one example.
This is a great choice for history buffs!
Potter Fans Divided as Hogwarts Legacy Game Released
Level 6: Intermediate
Just like movies and books, opinions about video games can often be based on things that aren't directly related to the work itself.
For example, the release of one Harry Potter game was controversial not because of the actual game, but because of the views of the series' creator.
Wrap-up
For students who play or are interested in the world of video games, the lessons presented here can be good choices when they aren't sure of how to spend their 25 minutes with you.
If they're really into games, be sure to ask students about more recent titles and developments in the gaming industry; like most things tech-related, it moves quickly!
