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This week's Activity of the Week is a departure from our normal format. Instead of providing a typical classroom activity, we model a series of puzzle mechanics that could be used in a Mixed-Reality Complex Learning Scenario (MRCLS). It is important to note that while MRCLSs prime certain learning outcomes and learner interactions, learners' strategies for participatipon will likely differ, and the outcomes depend greatly on each puzzle itself. As such, we have articulated possible learning outcomes for each puzzle type, but urge that these outcomes should not be interpreted as absolute.

Materials: Professor Memorization Puzzles (answer key on last page)

Puzzles

Puzzle 1: In this decoding puzzle, learners connect a numeric system to the alphabet. It could easily be adapted to connect other systems that aid in communication. Ffor example, a series of emojis could indicate numbers, letters, or words. This mechanic can be used to help learners discover targeted and salient content and explore multiliteracies. 

Puzzle 2: In this hidden messages puzzle, learners must read targeted content and uncover a concept revealed through the intentional incorporation of errors. This mechanic can be used to help learners engage in editorial processes, to read for detail, to read for main ideas, and to uncover critical content such as targeted vocabulary or concepts.

Puzzle 3: In this cipher puzzle, learners use a cipher to discover a key idea. This mechanic can be used to build schemata and to scaffold the understanding and analysis of a complex concept.

Puzzle 4: In this clues and letters puzzle, learners complete a crossword puzzle with assumed previous knowledge. This knowledge leads to the discovery of new content. This mechanic is great for building learner access and relevance as it invites previous knowledge sets in the development of new ones.

Puzzle 5: In this hidden messages puzzle, learners use their vocabulary knowledge to uncover a targeted word. This mechanic is great for exploring morphemes and other semantic patterns. Additionally, depending on the articulation of the content, it can be used to help learners build awareness of the impact of the utterances they create.