Much like exit slips, “speed ball” is also a fun and easy form of review for students to do at the end of a period. All you need is a soft object and active students to play this review game. There are two ways to play; you can be the one to throw the speed ball to students or any student in the class can have the ability to throw the speed ball. First, you throw the speed ball to someone. Once they have caught it, you ask them a question on the material you just went over. If he or she gets it right, it is his or her turn to throw the speed ball to someone and ask them a question. If he or she gets it wrong, he or she has to throw it back the person and they are to find someone new to ask the question. Students love to have the opportunity to throw the speed ball, so that makes it a great incentive for them to answer the question correctly.
There are a couple things to remember before playing speed ball. First, you want to find something soft to play with that can’t hurt a student, such as a stuffed animal. Second, instruct your students that they are not to throw the speed ball too hard or fast. Any student who does so will not be able to play again. Finally, encourage all of your students to be active in the game. You can do so by including their efforts as part of their participation grade.
