Application of educational games in the teaching of chemistry

Abstract

The authors of the article consider the possibilities of using the game method of instruction in the study of chemistry. Correctly selected game and tasks allow activating both the learning process itself and creating conditions for the multilateral development of students. The article presents two games «Electronic formula» and «Guess the compound». The main rule of the game «Electronic formula» which guides the players is the strictly consistent construction of electronic formulas of the currently selected elements. As a result, students learn the knowledge of electronic constitution of elements and the ability to build them. The second game «Guess the compound» is based on the question-and-answer principle and ends at the moment when one of the players (or a group of players) with the help of their guiding indirect questions will guess what this substance is. Questions can be asked in different ways, but in general, based only on the chemical and physical properties of the substance being determined. The content and form of the organization of game training contribute to the formation of skills and practical skills, the disclosure of the creative abilities of students. The opportunity is shown to awaken and strengthen interest in chemistry, a sense of collectivism and mutual assistance in solving difficult problems. The possibilities of mutual enrichment with information and skills in the process of the game, the development of the ability to generalize and control the acquired knowledge, confirmed by the long-term use of the game method of learning in the study of chemistry in secondary schools and in higher education institutions are revealed.