Preparing to Write WA5

Group Activity

 

In preparation for WA5, let’s begin talking about games in terms of communities of practice. You needn’t talk about games in your WA5, but it’s a useful exercise to think about them in these terms just in case gaming seems like a good topic for you to explore in your own WA5.

 

Directions: In groups of 3, answer the following questions in as much detail as possible, then report your findings to the rest of us. Before you do so, however, assign each group member one of the following roles: (a) the scribe—this person is responsible for writing down the answers the following questions (in as much detail as possible). (b) the reporter—this person is responsible for reporting the answers your group generated so the rest of the class can benefit from your great wisdom. (c) the facilitator—this person is responsible for making sure all of the above happens within the given timeframe. Stay on top of things! Your group is counting on you!

 

  1. Name three games played somewhat regularly by members of your group. These can be video games, board games, or card games. Sports will work less well for this activity, but you can choose to explore something closely related like Fantasy Football. Choose one from the list and begin answering the questions below.
  2. What are the rules involved in his game? Name three very specific rules.
  3. Ask the player: How did you learn the rules?
  4. What is the objective of the game?
  5. Ask the player: How do players learn the objective?
  6. What “tools” are involved with the game?
  7. Ask the player: How did you learn to use the tools effectively?
  8. Do you talk about the game (face-to-face or online) when you are not playing it? If so, answer questions 9-10 with respect to the social aspects of the game. If not, speculate as to why you only talk about the game while you are playing it.
  9. What special terminology is involved with this community of practice?
  10. What does this community of practice value?

 

Reporter: Present your findings to the rest of the class.

Scribe: Turn these written responses in at the end of class.

Facilitator: Make certain the reporter covers all the relevant information your group came up with. Make certain the names of each group member and their role (reporter, scribe, and facilitator) are written at the top.