🎲 Learning Through Play: An Innovative Chemistry Classroom Experience

“Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember, involve me and I learn.” — Benjamin Franklin

📘 Context

Class: VIII B

Subject: Chemistry

Topic: Chemical Formula of Compounds.

Teaching Practice Phase: Phase 1

Day: 42

Period: 8th period (Substitution class)

On the 42nd day of my teaching practice, I got an unexpected substitution period in Class 8B Chemistry. Instead of opting for a routine revision, I decided to implement my innovative lesson plan using a Snake and Ladder game that I had designed specifically for the topic Chemical Formula of Compounds.

The board and dice were carefully prepared beforehand, incorporating tasks and questions related to chemical formulae, number of atoms, and number of molecules—concepts that students usually find difficult and confusing.

The class was divided into four groups, and the game began with great excitement. From the very first move, the classroom atmosphere transformed. Students were energetic, curious, and highly competitive—but in a healthy and collaborative way.

As the game progressed, students navigated through questions, climbed ladders with correct answers, and slid down snakes when misconceptions appeared. What stood out the most was the group learning process—students who were confident in the topic supported those who were unsure, explaining concepts, correcting mistakes, and learning together. 

The game continued until we identified the first, second, and third positions, keeping everyone engaged throughout the period. 

Students easily understood and revised chemical formulae of compounds. Abstract concepts like number of atoms and molecules became clearer through repeated application. Fear of revision was replaced with joyful participation. Peer learning naturally occurred within groups. Students remained active and focused throughout the period.

Watching students learn without feeling the burden of “studying” was deeply satisfying. The effort I had put into designing and preparing the game proved to be useful, meaningful, and impactful.

This experience reinforced my belief that learning becomes powerful when it is joyful. The smiles on students’ faces, their eagerness to participate, and their confidence in answering questions made the entire day end on a happy and fulfilling note.This innovative Snake and Ladder model class was not just a game—it was a reminder that effective teaching lies in creativity, empathy, and student involvement.

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