Julia Giang

Project Second Tongue studies immigrants in Australia and their ongoing struggle to learn a second language, specifically English, due to second-language anxiety. Thus the result of the project led to the creation of the board game, Glad Tidings! It was designed to tackle this issue by creating a fun and casual environment where learners are comfortable to practice speaking English while also learning a little more about Australian culture. The game is cooperative based and encourages players to discuss hints and ideas while opening up the opportunity to ask and answer any curious questions.

For a detailed view of the game rules, follow the Google Drive link!

Glad Tidings - Synopsis

Items have been stolen by a group of burglars across town. Your team of detective magpies are tasked with identifying these items and chasing those thieves back to their hideout. Can you solve the case before they escape forever?

For Everyone

The game is designed for all ages and does not require a high level of proficency in English to play. Simple words and several pictures and icons help players visualise the items and navigate the map.

STAGE 1: THE SEARCH

With the help of The Bearer of Glad Tidings, use the given hints to identify the 3 stolen items from the long list of items.

[View full video here]

Hints and Stolen Items

This stage focuses on using and understanding descriptive words such as the material, colour and features to match them to the correct item. This helps learners develop ways to describe objects when they do not know its name. A valuable real-world skill!

STAGE 2: THE CHASE

With the items and its locations identified, players must chase down the thieves based on witness accounts. Order the stolen items based on location and find their hideout before they escape.

[View full video here]

Navigation and Directions

This challenging task tests the player's map navigation skills. Witness accounts provide a location that players must find on the map, along with a time, stolen item, or direction to help piece together a timeline of events. This stage allows learners to practice interpreting directions, an essential skill when navigating unfamiliar areas.

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