Key Sketch

How to play this game

This game is a lot of fun! It uses different keyboard functions to draw lines of varying design across the screen. The line is continuous but can be changed at any time. Children can explore their creative side whilst becoming familiar with the keyboard keys.

NOTE: this game requires the keyboard to be plugged in.

Sound can be turned on and off by clicking on the music symbol to the right of the design area.

To exit, click on the small hand to the right of the design area.

Related Learning Outcomes

Outcome 4: Children are involved and confident learners

Outcome 5: Children are effective communicators

Developmental skills

Creativity

Observation

Concentration

Keyboard - arrow keys, spacebar, letter and number keys

Directions - left, right, up and down

Strategy

Communication

Cooperation

Teaching tips

Level one is great for beginners, as it lets them become familiar with the keyboard keys. Instruct children at the start of the game what results when the spacebar, arrow, letter and number keys are pressed. Also point out that there are some keys that do not have a function in this game.

Encourage children to try all the letter and number keys. Ask them to try the letters of their names or go through the alphabet.

Level two is the same as level one except that it has a target to reach. This helps children get used to starting and stopping the line and changing direction. Some children may get stuck on the frame and find themselves going around in a big rectangle. A target helps them to focus on the end result and change direction when needed.

Level three is the same as level two but is a bit more challenging. If the target is not reached in a certain time limit, it will move to another place on the design area.

Two-player game

When two children play this, a lot of giggles result. One child can be in control of the direction of the line, while the other child is responsible for the look of the line and the background. It requires added concentration to achieve desired results, especially on level three.

Another two-player method is for one player to be in control of the keyboard and not looking at the screen. Their partner must guide them with verbal directions such as up, down, left or right, and maybe "Change the line" or "Change the background". Level two is recommended for this one, but level three is possible for players with good comprehension, listening and cooperative skills.