THE GAMES WE PLAY

The Games We Play: Learning Through Play at Charles Dale

At Charles Dale Memorial International School, we believe learning should be as dynamic, engaging, and imaginative as the minds of our learners. That’s why “The Games We Play” is more than just fun – it’s a cornerstone of our holistic approach to education.

This exciting project is designed to inspire creativity, spark innovation, and develop critical thinking skills through the power of play. But this isn’t your typical recess – our students, aged 11 to 13 (Years 7 to 12), are not just playing games. They’re creating them.

Guided by teachers and mentors, students dive into the rich history of traditional and modern games, tracing their origins, exploring cultural influences, and analyzing mechanics. The journey culminates in something extraordinary: the design and development of a digital game – completely crafted by the students themselves.

More than Play. It’s Purposeful Learning.

This project cuts across several disciplines including:

• Mathematics: for logic, scoring systems, and programming patterns
• Literature in English: for storytelling, dialogue, and character development
• Music and Creative Arts: for sound design and visual creativity
• ICT and Design: for digital creation and user interface
• Physical and Health Education: for kinesthetic learning and real-world game testing

Why it Matters

In a world driven by innovation, “The Games We Play” helps learners become creators, not just consumers. It promotes collaboration, communication, digital literacy, and problem-solving – all essential 21st-century skills. Most importantly, it allows students to see the relevance of classroom knowledge in real-world applications.

A Celebration of Creativity and Culture

By integrating elements from traditional games, students honor their heritage while developing future-ready tech skills. It’s a beautiful blend of past and future – rooted in identity, yet aiming for global relevance.