Mr. Wells, a teacher at Middle School, is a part of the English Department. During his time at NMS, he has taught multiple grades: 6th, 7th, and 8th. When reflecting on his teaching career so far, Mr. Wells says, “I saw how my voice and action could make change...” In his third year teaching with the Harrisburg School District, he has positively influenced many students.
Mr. Wells’s classroom holds a unique environment that has a positive impact on his students. One way that his teaching differs from others involves his use of a game called Dungeons and Dragons (D&D). In this game, students must use problem-solving techniques to get through the various interactive challenges. Each student builds their own character with the help of a D&D textbook; additionally, one of the students in the group is given the title “Dungeon Master”, who is responsible for leading the other characters through the challenges and adventures. Richard Carlson, a three-year student of Mr. Wells, explains, “It's a very complex task that's not only extremely fun, but also challenges the mind and stretches its capabilities.” Using this game as a tool in the classroom allows students to improve both their English and personal skills.
While others do not see games as learning tools, Mr. Wells believes that this game is the perfect way to trick his students into using a textbook with a 1400 reading Lexile as well as learning new vocabulary. Mr. Wells explains, “All but two of the power grading standards for middle school English are fulfilled with efficacy by playing the game.” In order to fulfill the other two standards needed, students write creative pieces related to the game. These works tie to the adventures the groups go through, allowing them to each expand their writing skills in an interactive way. Eloise Geraets, another student of Mr. Wells, shares how her writing skills have improved because of this teaching method: “D&D taught me many new vocabulary words and how to use all five of your senses when writing a creative piece.” This class incorporates many other tasks like reading Lord of the Flies and writing different pieces for a WWII Multi-Genre unit, but the use of Dungeons and Dragons holds a large impact on his students' growth.
Lastly, Richard states, “[Dungeons and Dragons] helped with learning how to take information from text and describe it on paper, as well as being able to understand it mentally.” This game stands out by providing both learning and interactive tools. Many students in his class say that D&D is a social game that requires them to communicate with their group, which also builds many different types of relationships. One last note from Mr. Wells says, “...although people often don’t like change, it is usually the voice from outside that eventually aids in succeeding at change to make positive growth.” He continues to prove how one game can influence the growth of an individual's English skills; moreover, he prepares his students for life beyond school.