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Begin by printing out the Poke cards (refer to the picture for a visual guide). I highly recommend using card stock for this. Not only does it enhance the durability of the cards, but it also prevents students from seeing the correct answer marked on the back during the game. While card stock is a bit more expensive, I consider it a worthwhile investment, given that these materials can last for many years. Additionally, don’t forget to print off the instruction/answer sheet. It’s a great help when it comes to coding the cards, a step I’ll explain in more detail shortly.
Next, I laminate the cards (see picture above). I only plan on assembling this Poke set once so for me laminating is critical. Again, a little additional time and money up front, will provide you with a resource that will last.
After laminating, it is time to cut the cards apart (see picture above). I have found that when cutting any cards, it is best to trim around the page first. This helps assure that the cards will be uniform in size.
After trimming the outside, I cut down the center.
And finally, I cut each card apart.
Now comes the part where these cards truly start to take shape—hole punching the answer choices. Each card in this set features three potential answers, requiring three precise punches to create an interactive experience for the student. As I align the hole puncher with the marked answer spots, I can’t help but chuckle at the unexpected workout it provides—consider it a mini strength session for your forearms! But all jesting aside, this step is crucial. It not only prepares the cards for the engaging “poke and check” method that students love but also adds a tactile dimension to their learning, which can be especially beneficial for kinesthetic learners.
With all the holes now neatly punched, the next step is to organize the cards. If you glance at the picture, you’ll notice each card has a number printed in the bottom right-hand corner. These numbers are my guide to sequentially arranging the cards, ensuring that everything is in perfect order. While at first glance the numbering might seem inconsequential to the gameplay itself, it plays a pivotal role in the setup process. It’s a small detail that streamlines the upcoming task of coding the cards, acting as a simple yet effective system to keep track of the cards during the coding phase and any future checks or updates to the set. This organizational step may seem minor, but it’s these nuances that make the game flow smoothly and allow for quick, hassle-free game setup and play.
The final assembly step is coding each card with the correct answer. Using the answer key, I identify the correct answer on the card’s front. I then flip the card to the back and mark the correct spot with a permanent marker. While some may choose to encircle the corresponding hole, I’ve found that marking an ‘X’ above the correct answer suits me better—somehow, it’s easier for me to make an ‘X’ than to draw a precise circle around a hole. You might wonder why I don’t code the card before laminating, as it would certainly make the marking more permanent. The reason is simple: the possibility of error. If I were to code pre-lamination and mark incorrectly, there’s no recourse for correction. The downside of post-lamination coding is that the ‘X’ might fade over time. However, this is easily remedied by having a student helper refresh the markings as needed. This method ensures both the durability of the cards and the flexibility to correct any mistakes.
To create the most engaging Pokey Porcupine experience, each player will require their own ‘poke stick,’ which is essentially the tool used to interact with the cards. There’s a whole array of potential poking instruments one could use. However, through trial and error, I’ve come to favor the humble Q-tip as the poking instrument of choice for my students.
The reason? Safety first. Q-tips, with their soft and pliable nature, minimize the risk of classroom mishaps. Unlike the sharper alternatives, a Q-tip ensures that the game remains fun and harmless—even if the playful spirit of the game leads to some unintended jabs, they won’t result in any tears or trips to the nurse’s office
Another practical benefit of Q-tips is their perfect fit for the poke holes on the cards—like they were made for each other. But, of course, with the versatility of Q-tips comes the need for a clear rule: they are tools for the game, not for personal exploration of ears, noses, or any other creative uses students might think up. A gentle but firm reminder of this at the start of the game can save a lot of trouble later on.
When it comes to supply, I purchase Q-tips in bulk—think packs of 300—which ensures I’m well-stocked for numerous rounds of poke games. Post-game, the Q-tips are disposed of, maintaining a hygienic environment. This way, each new game starts fresh, and there’s never a shortage of poke sticks for the math adventures that await.
Let's Play!
First, lay all the cards out face up, as shown in the picture , to prepare the playground for the minds eager for a mathematical challenge.
The students then engage in the age-old decision-making game of “Rock, Paper, Scissors” to bring a bit of extra excitement and fair play to determine who will have the honor of going first. This simple yet effective method infuses the session with an initial burst of fun and ensures that the game starts off on an energetic note.
Plus, it’s a great way for students to practice good sportsmanship and accept the outcome with grace, setting a positive tone for the learning activity ahead.
The first player initiates the game by thoughtfully selecting a card from the neatly laid-out array. They then engage with the problem, deliberate on the solution, and with a gentle tap, place their Q-tip into the hole corresponding to what they believe is the correct answer.
With the Q-tip marking their choice, the student carefully lifts the card to reveal the back, eager to discover if their logic was sound—if they spot the telltale ‘X’ marking their hole, their answer is confirmed correct. The student then collects the card.
If a student turns the card over and discovers that their answer is incorrect, the card is returned to its original position among the other face-up cards, leaving an opportunity for learning and revision. The game then seamlessly moves on to the next player, maintaining a dynamic and engaging rhythm. Play continues in this manner until all the cards have been claimed. The excitement builds as the game progresses, with each student eagerly waiting for their turn to solve and claim more cards. The ultimate victor is the player who has accumulated the most cards by the end, a rewarding testament to their math skills and strategic thinking.
Regarding the number of participants, the game is flexible enough to accommodate various group sizes. While a minimum of two players is required to kick off the fun, I’ve successfully managed groups of three, four, and even five students.
Pokey Porcupine’s adaptability makes it an ideal tool for diverse classroom settings, fostering teamwork and shared learning in larger groups, while offering concentrated problem-solving opportunities in smaller ones. Its versatility not only boosts its appeal but also enriches its educational impact, accommodating various learning preferences and situations. Remember, these cards aren’t just for group play; students can also engage with them independently at their desks or in a center, providing a strategic way to sharpen their skills for future group challenges.
Interested in bringing Pokey Porcupine into your classroom? Visit Mrs. B’s Best to check out the set featured in this post. Plus, see Mrs. B’s full collection of Pokey Porcupine Poke Game sets by clicking here. If there’s a specific skill you’re looking for that isn’t available yet, be sure to check back regularly – I am constantly adding new sets to cater to all your educational needs. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance learning and fun in your classroom!
