Treasure Hunt!

Whoever invented QR codes is a genius! 

My group (Emily, Lauren, and I) created a Pirate Detective lesson using QR codes in the classroom. Students were trying to figure out the secret word (Thomas Jefferson) by answering questions to the QR codes.The students goal was to use inquiry to explore a variety of books about important men involved with the Continental Congress and the Declaration of Independence. The student will also deepen their understanding as to why the colonists wanted independence from the British.

If you are interested in making your own lesson using QR codes I highly recommend this website. It has two lesson plans you can review before you make your own! If you are going to perform lesson using QR codes, you are going to need a smart phone, ipad, or anything that can download apps. The app is easy to download and free! Once you have downloaded the app, the screen scans the code and gives you the clue!

My personal experience with QR codes was fantastic. At first things were a little hectic, but after a few minutes the students got the hang of it and were completely engaged in the lesson. Each activity had them working hard against the clock and they loved it. I have never seen students that eager to learn and find the next clue! Giving the students an educational incentive and making it entertaining is the best idea out there.

In the article the woman stated that she projects the code onto the SMARTboard. I think that is a wonderful idea, but unfortunately all the students I was working with did not all have ipads or smart phones. Yes, we used more paper, but you have to work with what you have. If you have not tried QR codes yet, you will be amazed at how terrific they truly are!

Hard at work!

Here is a picture of the 4th grade using QR codes during our inquiry lesson :) What a great success!