Kids everywhere are going crazy over LOL Surprise Dolls®. The thrill of unwrapping a new layer to get a clue or a prize paired with not knowing what is inside totally captivates them. While I was planning my math review I thought, "Why not turn that fad into a meaningful classroom game?" Every time they answer a review question correctly, they get to unwrap a layer of the surprise ball and find a prize inside! High engagement, easy to differentiate and the possibilities are endless. It is a perfect way to review all the math concepts learned before testing begins.
The first step was to find inspiration for the surprise ball. I instantly knew I needed to create an emoji themed surprise ball with all of the goodies from the Mega Emoji Assortment. Surprise balls + trendy emojis. What could be better?!
I am not kidding when I tell you guys how easy and fast these surprise balls were to make. I made six emoji surprise balls while my youngest child napped. My first grade daughter even helped!
The supplies were minimal. Grab the Mega Emoji Assortment, and Mini Noise Putty for the surprise factor. Start by wrapping one small prize with the Yellow Jumbo Paper Streamers. Hold that layer together by adding everyone's favorite go to craft item, Mod Podge® Acrylic Sealer - Matte. Use the amazing Foam Brush Assortment to apply your Mod Podge®.
I wrapped each prize completely and added a thin layer of Mod Podge® Acrylic Sealer - Matte to the end before adding another emoji prize and wrapping it with the White Jumbo Paper Streamers.
I decided to wrap in alternating layers so the students knew when it was the next person's time to unwrap. I continued wrapping up prize after prize ending on a yellow streamer so I could draw on an emoji face.
The week before our testing began we did a full on Math Camp Review Day. Trying to pump the kids up for a week full of testing while keeping them engaged during a comprehensive review can be a daunting task! However, the minute I pulled out these emoji surprise balls as an incentive game for review, every student was ready to play! These were a total game changer!
Our math review turned into instant fun. Every student was engaged in the review process. I put them in teams and each person had a chance to pull a review card to answer. They had to show their work and were able to help tutor or encourage each other.
Each time they answered a question correctly, they got to unwrap a layer to see what surprise was in store for them!
I would highly recommend this activity for any time of the year. The students were captivated and it made test prep so much more fun. Even my most hesitant students were 100% engaged and felt supported. It felt great to reward all of their hard work.
It truly is amazing what happens when you take a fad, like these surprise balls, and creatively incorporate them into meaningful learning activities. They totally transform the learning environment! I encourage you to try it out in your class! Be sure to download the fancy and free Surprise Ball Review Game instructions on the right underneath the supply list. Soon students will be unwrapping the fun in your classroom!
