Hi Education Legends! Welcome to our October curriculum update! We’re excited to share this monthly collection of new science games, carefully crafted to support your teaching goals and boost student achievement.

Transform your science classroom with these engaging new tools!

If you missed last month’s new games, take a look at September’s update here.

New Science Games in October

Get ready to engage your students with exciting new adventures and hands-on learning experiences.

Grades 3-5

• Bloom Haven: Run your farm and follow the development cycle of plants and animals over time.
• Speed Surge: The Quest For Energy: Drive and conquer every track to learn more about speed and energy.
• Food Frenzy: Prepare yourself for a thrilling runner adventure, where you can explore new environments and interact with creatures to learn about energy flow.
• Crumbling Structure: Join this magical crew and explore the effects of weathering and erosion in various environments to learn how these natural forces shape the world!

Grades 6-8

• Laser Lab Simulator!: Beat every mini challenge to learn how reflection, absorption, and transmission of light work.
• Balance Keeper – LIFE: Take on the role of Biome Keeper, balancing flora, fauna, climate, and water. Make crucial decisions to keep the biome thriving and avoid collapse.
• Think Titans: Solar System Origins & Gravity: Join Loopy as he learns about the Solar System’s origin with the help of Professor Hoo. Together, they’ll create their mini solar system!
• Light Wave Party Pop: In this fun educational game students control a photon to learn about light and waves through colorful puzzles, making complex concepts accessible and engaging!
• Fun System: Reference Frames: Team up with our friendly characters to explore different apps while searching for a friend, learning about acceleration, velocity, and reference frames along the way!
• Planet Populators Inc.: In this game about artificial selection, manage a breeding farm on Mars to create quirky aliens by fulfilling customer requests and selecting specific traits!

October Featured Games

Bloom Haven — Elementary Science 

Game description:

Farm Life Cycles: Biology in Action

Transform your science classroom with this engaging farming simulator where students discover biology through hands-on virtual farming!

Try Bloom Haven NOW!

Key Features:

• Explore plant and animal life cycles in real time
• Witness metamorphosis and reproduction stages
• Manage farm resources and make strategic decisions
• Learn through guided, interactive tutorials

Students will:

• Master biological concepts through practical application
• Develop critical thinking skills via farm management
• Connect science curriculum to real-world scenarios

Watch as your students bloom from curious observers into confident young biologists, eagerly cultivating their understanding of life science!

Speed Surge: The Quest For Energy — Elementary Science

Game Description:

Students race into physics education with this thrilling 3D arcade game that transforms abstract energy concepts into high-octane learning adventures!

Game Scenario: On the eve of the Robo League championship, our robot hero must step in as an emergency test driver. With malfunctioning vehicles and untested courses, players become crucial troubleshooters in this physics-powered adventure!

Learning in Motion:

• Master concepts of kinetic and mechanical energy
• Experience physics principles through dynamic vehicle control
• Apply real-world physics in exciting challenges
• Test and analyze vehicle performance across 4 unique tracks

Challenges Include:

• Performing physics-based stunts
• Calculating optimal speeds for tasks
• Bowling with vehicle momentum
• Testing energy conversion in action

Educational Benefits:

• Hands-on exploration of motion concepts
• Real-time visualization of physics principles
• Engaging narrative that drives learning
• Perfect blend of entertainment and education

Turn your classroom into a physics testing ground where students eagerly race to understand energy and motion! Try Speed Surge NOW!

Laser Lab Simulator! – Middle Science

Game Description:

Illuminating Optics Through Interactive Discovery

Transform your physics curriculum with this engaging virtual laboratory where students master light and energy concepts through practical experimentation! Check Laser Lab Simulator NOW!

Key Learning Features:

• Hands-on manipulation of optical tools (lasers, filters, mirrors)
• Progressive challenges reinforce core physics concepts
• Real-time visualization of light behavior and energy transfer
• Problem-based learning through laboratory puzzles

Educational Outcomes:

• Deep understanding of light reflection and refraction
• Critical thinking through experimental design
• Scientific problem-solving in a risk-free environment
• Application of physics principles to achieve measurable goals

Perfect for middle and high school physics classes, Laser Lab Simulator turns abstract optical concepts into tangible, engaging experiments that spark scientific curiosity and foster analytical thinking.

Have you missed last month’s new games? Take a look at September’s update here! And don’t forget to keep an eye out for more exciting game updates coming your way soon.

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Are you new to Legends of Learning and eager to try these games? Sign up now and embark on an educational adventure!

Have questions? Reach out to us at support@legendsoflearning.com

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Don’t miss out on our latest posts!

• Empower Your Teaching Journey through Awakening 0.7.7: New Loot Boxes, Customizations, and More!
• Merry Math: Holiday Games for the Classroom in December 2024
• Merry Science: Holiday Games for the Classroom in December 2024
• 5 ways to get the most out of Legends of Learning Platform
• Giving Thanks for Learning: New Science Games for November

When Brownsville Independent School District (BISD) faced a challenge familiar to many educators—engaging students in mastering essential math skills—they found a game-changing solution that transformed their classrooms in just 15 minutes a day: Math Basecamp by Legends of Learning.

From Frustration to Fun: The Power of Math Basecamp

Before introducing Math Basecamp, elementary students at BISD struggled with basic math fact fluency, a fundamental skill necessary for higher-level problem-solving.

Traditional methods and other digital tools fell short, lacking the excitement and individualized approach needed to make a lasting impact.

That’s when Sally Legault, BISD’s Elementary Math Specialist, turned to Math Basecamp—and everything changed.

Engagement Like Never Before

With Math Basecamp’s interactive, researched-based approach, BISD saw immediate results. Over 3 months of usage, students increased the number of mastered facts by 17%.

The secret? A blend of fun mini-games, hands-on activities, and data-driven feedback empowers students to track their progress and celebrate their achievements in an average 15-minute session per day.

“It’s individualized; students work on what they need to work on, it’s a quick fifteen minutes per day, and they can see their progress. They get excited about that,” said Sally Legault, highlighting the enthusiastic response from students.

Transforming Classrooms, One Game at a Time

Over 3,000 students in BISD are now regularly choosing Math Basecamp, and teachers have noticed a shift in classroom dynamics.

Students who once resisted math are now the first to ask, “Can we do Math Basecamp?” They cheer for their time on the platform and approach math with excitement and confidence, thanks to the engaging, game-like experience tailored to their individual needs.

Aryah Fradkin, Co-Founder of Legends of Learning, recognizes this transformation: “Kids who wouldn’t usually do math love Math Basecamp. Every kid WANTS to learn. I’ve been in a lot of classrooms and talked to kids about their experiences, and they’re over the moon about Math Basecamp.”

Real-Time Progress for Teachers and Students

Beyond student enthusiasm, Math Basecamp provides impactful tools for educators to boost math engagement.

Teachers at BISD use built-in data reports to monitor student growth and customize lessons based on individual needs. This adaptive approach has not only improved math fluency but also empowered teachers to differentiate instruction, ensuring that every student receives the support they need.

The results speak for themselves: math scores are on the rise, and teachers now have a reliable, engaging tool that students love.

Get the Full Story: See How Your School Can Achieve the Same Results!

Ready to transform your school’s approach to math? Check out the full case study to learn more about how Math Basecamp is making a difference in classrooms like yours. Discover how a simple, engaging 15-minute routine can change the way your students experience math and set them up for success!

👉 Download the Case Study Now

Do you have questions? Reach out to us at heroes@legendsoflearning.com

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Don’t miss out on our latest posts!

• Empower Your Teaching Journey through Awakening 0.7.7: New Loot Boxes, Customizations, and More!
• Merry Math: Holiday Games for the Classroom in December 2024
• Merry Science: Holiday Games for the Classroom in December 2024
• 5 ways to get the most out of Legends of Learning Platform
• Giving Thanks for Learning: New Science Games for November

Enjoy and leverage the new math games in September 2024! Another exciting update to our engaging and rigorous Learning Universe!

We’re happy to introduce you to the latest additions to our classroom games, designed to enhance students’ test scores through engaging gameplay.

Have you missed the last month’s update? Look at all the new science games launched in August here.

New Math Games in September 2024 🧪

Get ready to engage your students with exciting new adventures and hands-on learning experiences.

Grades K-2

• Number Expedition:  Play different minigames and solve math problems by applying your knowledge in place value.

Grades 3-5

• Rounding Adventure: Help us discover the hidden objects on the island while learning about rounding numbers to the nearest 10! 
• Rounding Island: Travel across the mystery island, collect coins, and beat each minigame to understand how to round whole numbers.
• Magic Island: Compare Numbers: Reveal all the secrets of Magic Island by comparing numbers!
• Decimal Odyssey: Learn to read and write decimals and compose and decompose numbers with decimals! Discover the secrets of an ancient island and practice math simultaneously!
• Rounding Quest: Learn rounding by solving the mystery of the magic island and discover its secrets in a fun and exciting quest!
• Fraction Island: Solve the puzzles and learn about equivalent fractions.
• Nyx in Polygonia: Travel with Nyx to Polygonia to learn the secrets of angles and lines.
• The Tenth Temple: Embark on an adventure with Mr. Ribbit Jones! Clear all the rooms to find the Golden Bug while improving your math skills in place value.
• Base 10 Mini Golf: Are you able to shoot holes-in-one while solving division and multiplication problems? Beat all the levels and learn how the base 10 patterns work.
• Angry Birds: Coordinate: Shoot our Angry Birds friends using different coordinates and defeat the evil piggies to understand how to read, interpret, and define the coordinate plane. 

A Closer Look at Featured Games

Number Expedition — Elementary Math

EdGame Description:

Transport your students to a world where numbers come alive and math is an exhilarating adventure!

Journey to the Heart of Numeracy

In “Number Expedition,” students embark on a thrilling quest to a mysterious math-infused island. This immersive game transforms abstract mathematical concepts into tangible, exciting challenges that will captivate even the most reluctant learners.

Key Features:

• Magical Guides: The wise Guardian Orb and a cast of enchanting creatures lead students through their mathematical odyssey.
• Interactive Puzzles: Cleverly designed challenges that engage critical thinking skills and reinforce core concepts.
• Fantastical Exploration: Students can uncover hidden secrets and unlock new areas as mathematical prowess grows.
• Adaptive Difficulty: Ensures each student is appropriately challenged and supported.

Educational Benefits:

• Seamlessly blends curriculum-aligned content with engaging gameplay.
• Provides immediate feedback, allowing students to learn from mistakes in a low-stress environment.
• Encourages persistence and resilience in problem-solving.
• Offers teachers valuable insights into student progress and areas needing additional support.

By weaving essential mathematical skills into an epic adventure, “Number Expedition” transforms routine practice into an eagerly anticipated journey of discovery. Watch as your students evolve from hesitant mathematicians into confident numerical explorers, eager to tackle each new challenge!

Rounding Adventure – Elementary Math

EdGame Description:

Transform rounding from a tedious task into an enchanting quest with “Rounding Adventure,” an elementary math game that brings numbers to life!

Key Features:

• Magical Mentors: Learn from wise creatures like the Phoenix and Gorilla.
• Progressive Challenges: Master rounding to tens, hundreds, and beyond.
• Interactive Gameplay: Apply rounding skills in imaginative scenarios.

Educational Benefits:

• Reinforces core math concepts through engaging storytelling.
• Builds confidence in number manipulation and estimation.
• Provides a fun, low-pressure environment for math practice.

Watch as your students evolve from hesitant mathematicians into confident number wizards, eagerly tackling each new rounding challenge!

Rounding Island – Elementary Math

EdGame Description:

Transform your 4th graders into mathematical explorers with “Rounding Adventure,” where number skills are the key to unlocking a world of wonder!

Furthermore, step into a mystical realm where every digit holds hidden potential. This enchanted island offers tailored challenges that align perfectly with 4th-grade math standards, while its adaptive difficulty system ensures that every young adventurer feels both challenged and successful.

As students navigate through the island’s magical landscapes, they’ll discover that their growing mastery of rounding is the true key to unveiling the island’s deepest secrets.

Skills Mastered:

• Rounding whole numbers to any place value.
• Estimating sums and differences.
• Applying rounding in real-world contexts.

Gameplay Highlights:

• Solve puzzles to reveal the island’s secrets.
• Earn magical artifacts by mastering rounding techniques.
• Collaborate with quirky island inhabitants for added fun and learning.

Teacher Benefits:

• Built-in assessment tools track student progress.
• Customizable content to complement your curriculum.
• Engaging storyline motivates even reluctant math learners.

Watch as your students eagerly dive into the world of rounding, transforming a sometimes tricky concept into an exciting adventure they can’t wait to continue!

Keep an eye out for more exciting game updates coming your way soon.

Have you missed last month’s new games? Take a look at August’s update here! And don’t forget to watch for more exciting game updates coming your way soon.

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Are you new to Legends of Learning and eager to try these games? Sign up now and embark on an educational adventure!

Have questions? Reach out to us at support@legendsoflearning.com

---

Don’t miss out on our latest posts!

• Empower Your Teaching Journey through Awakening 0.7.7: New Loot Boxes, Customizations, and More!
• Merry Math: Holiday Games for the Classroom in December 2024
• Merry Science: Holiday Games for the Classroom in December 2024
• 5 ways to get the most out of Legends of Learning Platform
• Giving Thanks for Learning: New Science Games for November

Hi Legends! Check out our new science games in September 2024. Another exciting update to our engaging and rigorous Learning Universe!

We’re happy to introduce you to the latest additions to our classroom games, designed to enhance students’ test scores.

Have you missed the last month’s update? Look at all the new science games launched in August here.

New Science Games in September 2024 🧪

Get ready to engage your students with exciting new adventures and hands-on learning experiences.

Grades K-2

• Plantopia: Plant apples, carrots, and sunflower seeds to see how sunlight helps them!

Grades 3-5

• Eco Defender – Protector of the Spheres: Embark on a mission to space while learning the elements of the atmosphere, geosphere,  hydrosphere, and biosphere. 
• Eureka! – Synthesizer: Join Nicola Tesla 2.0 and learn how technology is here to help us!
• Eureka! – New Dawn: Point-and-click through the game to explore how animals are in the same group but have different characteristics/traits.
• The Candy Factory: Use strong elves to keep running the candy factory using the basic concepts of forces and motion! 

Grades 6-8

• Bear’s Life: Changes in Ecosystems: You’ll experience the challenges like a bear to learn how the changes in ecosystems affect living organisms. 
• Tourists From Outer Space: Learn the patterns and movement of stars by showing clients the human sky on holidays and specific seasons! 
• Eureka! – Black Flag: Explore the biodiversity of our world in this pirate adventure!
• Climate Match: The Greenhouse Effect: Solve funny match problems to understand how the greenhouse effect impacts Earth and living organisms.
• Moonlit Harmony – The Lunar Phases: You’re a bright apprentice and your task is to dominate the lunar cycle!
• Galactic Greenhouse: Use your knowledge of the flow of temperature to grow plants in space!

A Closer Look at Featured Games

Eco Defender – Protector of the Spheres — Elementary Science 

Players explore Earth’s vital systems – Geosphere, Biosphere, Atmosphere, and Hydrosphere – while tackling real-world challenges:

• Combat pollution and manage water resources
• Deploy eco-tools like shrubs, filters, and biopesticides
• Collaborate with virtual experts to design sustainable solutions

Through hands-on problem-solving, students:

• Apply scientific concepts to environmental issues
• Develop critical thinking and teamwork skills
• Gain a deeper understanding of Earth’s delicate balance

Eco Defender seamlessly blends engaging gameplay with curriculum-aligned content, transforming passive learners into active environmental stewards.

Eureka! – Synthesizer – Elementary Science

Key Features:

• Fantasy-themed narrative brings abstract concepts to life
• Interactive experiments with various wave types
• Puzzle-solving challenges that reinforce learning
• Exploration of real-world applications (smartphones, TVs)

Students will:

• Grasp fundamental concepts of light energy and optics
• Understand the basics of wireless communication
• Discover how digital devices process and transmit information

Eureka! Synthesizer transforms complex physics into an accessible adventure, seamlessly blending curriculum-aligned content with captivating gameplay. Watch as your students evolve from curious observers to confident tech explorers!

Bear’s Life: Changes in Ecosystems – Middle Science

Key Features:

• Dynamic, evolving environments mimic real ecosystems
• Engaging quests: berry gathering, fish catching, disaster survival
• Seamless integration of core scientific concepts into gameplay

Students will learn:

• Primary and secondary succession in action
• Biotic and abiotic factors shaping environments
• Human impact on natural habitats

Through a perfect blend of exploration and problem-solving, “Bear’s Life” turns young learners into ecosystem experts. Watch as abstract textbook concepts come alive in this interactive wilderness adventure!

Have you missed last month’s new games? Take a look at August’s update here! And don’t forget to keep an eye out for more exciting game updates coming your way soon.

---

Are you new to Legends of Learning and eager to try these games? Sign up now and embark on an educational adventure!

Have questions? Reach out to us at support@legendsoflearning.com

---

Don’t miss out on our latest posts!

• Empower Your Teaching Journey through Awakening 0.7.7: New Loot Boxes, Customizations, and More!
• Merry Math: Holiday Games for the Classroom in December 2024
• Merry Science: Holiday Games for the Classroom in December 2024
• 5 ways to get the most out of Legends of Learning Platform
• Giving Thanks for Learning: New Science Games for November

Are you ready to revolutionize your math classroom and illuminate your students’ brilliance?

Join Legends of Learning at the NCTM National Council of Teachers of Mathematics 2024 Annual Meeting & Exposition in Chicago from September 25th to 28th!

Illuminating Students’ Brilliance Through Game-Based Learning

Don’t miss our exclusive workshop, “Game On: Modernizing Math & Unlocking Potential,” on Thursday, September 26th, from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM in Room N137 at McCormick Place.

Legends of Learning at NCTM brings math educators an interactive session designed for educators teaching grades 3 to 5 who want to harness the power of game-based learning to transform their math instruction.

During this engaging workshop, attendees will:

• Experience game-based learning firsthand
• Discover strategies for creating equitable learning environments
• Learn practical ways to integrate games into your existing curriculum
• Explore our educational platform with a live demonstration

Visit Us at Booth #1119

Stop by to meet our team, learn about our game-based learning platform, and discover how we can help you create the math classroom of your students’ dreams.

Join us in Chicago as we explore ways to recognize and uplift the unique brilliance each student brings to the classroom.

Together, let’s illuminate the path to engaging, accessible, and joyful math education for all!

Join Our Photo Challenge!

Unleash your inner math superhero around Chicago! Grab a cape, snap photos around the city, and share them on Instagram using #LegendsAtNCTM.

Don’t forget to tag @legendsoflearning and follow us! The photo with the most likes will win a $150 Amazon gift card. The winner will be announced at 3 PM on Friday, September 27th.

Why Attend NCTM 2024?

This year’s theme, “The Math of Their Dreams: Illuminating Students’ Brilliance,” aligns perfectly with our mission at Legends of Learning. The conference offers:

• Inspiring education sessions
• Engaging keynote speakers
• Valuable networking opportunities
• An exhibit hall full of innovative educational solutions

Are you excited to game-ify your math classroom? We can’t wait to see you at NCTM 2024!

In a Nutshell: Event Overview

• Booth 410
• Dates: September 23, 2024
• Time: 4:30-6:00 PM
• Location: Hilton Chicago, 720 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois

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Join us at the 56th NCSM Annual Conference for a unique gathering of math leaders: Math Deep Dish. You’ll have the chance to collaborate, share ideas, and discuss innovative approaches to math education.

Whether you’re looking to brainstorm new teaching strategies, discuss ways to overcome systemic barriers, or simply enjoy a slice of deep-dish pizza while engaging in insightful conversations, Booth 410 at the Hilton Chicago is the place to be on September 23. 

What Is Math Deep Dish?

Set against the backdrop of Chicago’s famous deep-dish pizza, Math Deep Dish aims to foster connections, and inspire educators to improve mathematics education for all students.

This event offers a casual yet meaningful setting where educators can dive deep into the challenges and opportunities within math teaching and learning, and enrich discussions that matter to today’s math classrooms.

We aim to:

• Highlight new strategies to improve math learning and overcome obstacles within the system.
• Facilitate discussions on common challenges in math education and innovative solutions.
• Promote meaningful collaboration between educators.

Whether you’re looking to brainstorm new teaching strategies, discuss ways to overcome systemic barriers, or simply enjoy a slice of deep-dish pizza while engaging in insightful conversations, Booth 410 at the Hilton Chicago is the place to be on September 23.

What to Expect

Legends of Learning has prepared a comfortable and inviting space to make the most of this experience. 

Guests can enjoy a slice of Chicago’s iconic deep-dish pizza while they chat—quite literally giving them food for thought. A candy dish will also be available for those with a sweet tooth, making it an even more inviting spot to meet and mingle.

About this Annual NCSM Conference: Breaking Barriers with Bold Mathematics Leadership

Every year, mathematics education leaders come together at the Annual NCSM Conference to challenge traditional teaching methods and embrace bold strategies for equitable and effective math instruction.

This year’s theme, Breaking Barriers with Bold Mathematics Leadership, focuses on disrupting outdated practices, overcoming classroom challenges, eliminating barriers, and using coaching to support meaningful change.

Key Conference Strands

• Disrupting the Status Quo: Embrace new, culturally relevant practices that improve outcomes for students and teachers.
• Overcoming Challenges: Innovate to address teacher shortages and gaps in instruction.
• Eliminating Barriers: Ensure all students have access to grade-level content by addressing inequitable practices.
• Coaching to Support Change: Use coaching to foster continuous improvement in teaching and learning.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn, lead, and break barriers in math education! Join us at NCSM and at Legends of Learning’s Math Deep Dish, a must-attend for any math educator looking to make a real impact in the classroom. 

We look forward to seeing you on Monday, Sept 23rd! Together, we can push math education forward, one slice at a time!

Check out the gallery of Legends at NCSM 2022!

Introducing Angry Birds: Coordinate!

Last summer, we announced our exciting partnership with Rovio Entertainment, bringing the iconic Angry Birds characters to our Learning Universe.

Today, we’re excited to unveil our newest game, designed to teach students essential concepts on the coordinate plane.

A New Angry Birds Adventure

In Angry Birds: Coordinate, players join Red, Bomb, or Chuck as they guide young birds in mastering the art of accurate aiming using coordinates.

Through a series of hilarious and engaging adventures, students will learn to thwart the pigs’ mischievous plans while perfecting their understanding of the coordinate plane.

From deserts to beaches and forests, the game offers a diverse and entertaining experience set within the beloved Angry Birds universe.

Reviews

Academically Sound, Fun-Filled Gameplay

Angry Birds: Coordinate seamlessly blends educational content with fun gameplay. Students will learn key concepts on the coordinate plane while having a blast.

Introduction to the Coordinate Plane

The game introduces players to the basics of the coordinate plane, including the x-axis (horizontal) and y-axis (vertical), as well as the origin (0,0) where the axes intersect.

Interactive Gameplay

Players launch Angry Birds onto a coordinate plane, aiming to hit specific targets located at given coordinates. They must use their understanding of the plane to aim precisely.

Learning Through Play

The hands-on nature of the game allows players to learn through trial and error. This interactive approach makes learning concepts more tangible and accessible.

By integrating these educational and fun elements, Angry Birds: Coordinate can make learning an engaging and effective experience for students.

We’ll see you soon in the Learning Universe with Coordinate in your queue! 

Are you new to Legends of Learning and want to try out these games? Sign Up Now!

Share Your Thoughts

Earn Rewards Points by leaving a review after playing Angry Birds: Coordinate. Your feedback helps other teachers choose the best games for their students and contributes to the overall quality of our Learning Universe. By sharing your thoughts, you’re helping to make a positive impact on education!

Other titles from the Rovio & Legends of Learning Collection

• Angry Birds: Kinetic Power for Grades 6-8 over Kinetic Energy  
• Angry Birds: Space Tactics for Grades 3-5 over Linear Geometry
• Angry Birds: Solar Smash! for Grades 3-5 over Earth and the Solar System
• Angry Birds: Return Home for Grades 3-8 over Solar System and Gravitational Force  
• Angry Birds Eggstraction over Forces and Collisions
• Angry Birds and the Multiplication Portal for Multiplication Practice

Read more about Angry Birds EdGames

Stay tuned for more Angry Birds games coming to Legends of Learning in topics such as Gravitational Force, Arithmetic with Decimals, and more!

Are you new to Legends of Learning and want to try out these games? Sign Up Now!

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Read more articles and news!

• Empower Your Teaching Journey through Awakening 0.7.7: New Loot Boxes, Customizations, and More!
• Merry Math: Holiday Games for the Classroom in December 2024
• Merry Science: Holiday Games for the Classroom in December 2024
• 5 ways to get the most out of Legends of Learning Platform
• Giving Thanks for Learning: New Science Games for November

Hi Legends! Welcome to another exciting update from our Learning Universe: check out the new math games in August 2024!

We’re thrilled to introduce you to the latest additions to our growing array of science classroom games, designed to engage while enhancing your students’ test scores.

If you missed out on last month’s new game releases, don’t worry! Take a look at July’s update here.

New Math Games in August 2024 🧪

Get ready to engage your students with exciting new adventures and hands-on learning experiences.

Games for Grades K-2

• Clowning Around Problems: Hey! Visit our circus! You’ll find math lessons and learn how to turn them into fun problems to solve with balloons, animals, and cannons!  

Games for Grades 3-5

• Math Munchies Mayhem: Use multiplication and division to scare critters and protect our delicious munchies. 
• The Unlikely Hero: The town of Villaverde is under attack from the Glombobs! Use addition and subtraction of fractions to find the solution and save the villagers!

Games for Grades 6-8

• The Great Rube Goldberg Ratio: Solve all ratio challenges by constructing a complex machine that performs a simple task as elaborately and creatively as possible.
• Plump’s Pies: Sell pies with Lump and Plump and learn how to calculate all the measurements of a circle!

A Closer Look at Featured Games

Clowning Around Problems — Elementary Math 

Game Description:

Welcome to the Math Circus, where learning math is a fun and exciting adventure!

In this interactive game, students join the Numbers Clown Company in a series of entertaining and educational activities.

During the game, students help Ziggy, the balloon clown, to make animal-shaped balloons and assist Bubbles in winning prizes. They also calculate heights with Dizzy’s animal tower. Each activity is designed to make math engaging and enjoyable.

At the end, Peppi the Cannon Clown will challenge students to use their math skills to reach new heights and hit the target.

Math Munchies Math — Middle Math Game

Game Description:

Protect platters of tasty munchies from hoards of marauding critters by solving basic multiplication and division problems.

The critters start in small numbers and are stationary giving you time to find the missing number to scare them away.

Watch out! More and more critters will appear moving faster and faster towards your munchies.

The Great Rube Goldberg Ratio — Middle Math Game

Game Description:

Step into the exciting world of “The Great Rube Goldberg Ratio,” where learning ratios becomes a playful adventure! This game offers students a unique blend of quick, interactive mini-games and the thrill of building Rube Goldberg machines.

Through fun and engaging challenges, students explore and apply the concept of ratios, turning abstract math into captivating puzzles. Perfect for making learning an interactive and joyful experience.

Have you missed last month’s new games? Take a look at July’s update here! And don’t forget to keep an eye out for more exciting game updates coming your way soon.

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Are you new to Legends of Learning and eager to try these games? Sign up now and embark on an educational adventure!

Have questions? Reach out to us at support@legendsoflearning.com

---

Don’t miss out on our latest posts!

• Empower Your Teaching Journey through Awakening 0.7.7: New Loot Boxes, Customizations, and More!
• Merry Math: Holiday Games for the Classroom in December 2024
• Merry Science: Holiday Games for the Classroom in December 2024
• 5 ways to get the most out of Legends of Learning Platform
• Giving Thanks for Learning: New Science Games for November

Hi Legends! Welcome to another exciting update from our Learning Universe: check the new science games in August 2024!

This August, we’re thrilled to introduce you to the latest additions to our growing array of science classroom games, designed to engage while enhancing your students’ test scores.

Did you miss last month’s new games? Take a look at July’s update here.

New Science Games in August 2024 🧪

Get ready to engage your students with exciting new adventures and hands-on learning experiences.

Grades K-2

• Lovely Planet: Create the world of your dreams and see how plants and animals interact with their environment on our lovely planet Earth.
• Buddy Care: Take care of our little friends, a bird, and a plant,  to learn more about their processes of growth and development.

Grades 6-8

• Angry Birds: Return Home: Join our Angry Birds friends in their mission to send Ice Bird back to his home planet  Cold Cuts. Use your knowledge of gravity to sort all the obstacles!
• Fury the Capybara: Help Fury,  a grumpy movie director,  create his next show while learning more about plate tectonics. 
• Captain Kipper’s Current Quest: Travel across the ocean without a working propeller! Yes, only use the ocean currents and your guts to avoid enemies! 
• Think Titans: Solar System Explorers: Explore our universe with Loopy and Prof. Hoot in their spaceship. You’ll learn more about the planets, stars, and celestial bodies in your travels.

A Closer Look at Featured Games

Lovely Planet — Elementary Science Game 

Game Description:

Create a beautiful forest and a coral reef.

Discover how humans affect the environment with a memory game and paint a better city.

Angry Birds: Return Home — Middle Science Game

Game Description:

We need to help Ice Bird on his mission to get back to his home planet.

To accomplish that, we will have to defeat the space pigs of every planet. 


Join us on this awesome trip and you will learn about the solar system and the concept of gravity.

Fury the Capybara — Middle Science Game

Game Description:

Fury the Capybara is a movie director with a particular personality; he’s grumpy.

Players have to buy props for Fury’s next show while learning the plate tectonics characteristics and playing multiple minigames.

The game offers two modes: Story Mode, where you will be lectured about plate tectonics and play fun minigames. Practice Mode, where you can go directly to have fun while recapitulating the main topics with the summarized activities.

Keep an eye out for more exciting game updates coming your way soon.

Have you missed last month’s new games? Take a look at July’s update here! And don’t forget to keep an eye out for more exciting game updates coming your way soon.

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The federal government’s Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) funds have been a lifeline for school districts grappling with the ongoing impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Districts are running out of time to spend this crucial funding. While the deadline to allocate funds for ESSER III is September 30, 2024, the standard spending deadline of January 31, 2025, might leave some districts scrambling. 

Thankfully, the Department of Education offers a “late liquidation” option, providing some much-needed breathing room. 

Keep reading to learn all you need to know to secure Esser funds for your district. 

1. What’s the deadline to decide how to spend ESSER funds?

September 30, 2024. This is the critical date by which your district must finalize its plans for allocating all remaining ESSER III funds. Any unallocated funds after this date will need to be returned to the Department of Education. It’s crucial to carefully assess your district’s needs and strategically allocate these resources to address the ongoing impacts of the pandemic on your students.

2. When do ESSER funds need to be spent?

The standard deadline for spending all ESSER III funds is January 31, 2025. This means all contracted services, purchases, and programs funded by ESSER III must be completed and the funds must be liquidated (physically spent) by this date. This can feel like a tight timeframe, especially for complex projects or ongoing initiatives.

The deadline for school districts to decide how to spend their ESSER funds is called “obligation” and usually involves signing a formal agreement, like a contract. ESSER obligation dates and liquidation dates are:

School Year 22-23

• Sept 30th – ESSER I must be obligated
• Jan 28th – ESSER I liquidation

School Year 23-24

• Sept 30th – ESSER II must be obligated
• Jan 28th – ESSER II liquidation

School Year 24-25

• Sept 30th – ESSER III must be obligated
• Jan 28th – ESSER III liquidation

 See Question E-3d on pages 68-69 of the December 7 FAQ for more details.

3. Can I get more time to spend ESSER funds?

Yes! Thankfully, the Department of Education offers a “late liquidation” option for districts that need additional time to spend their ESSER III funds on approved contracted services. This extension can be a lifesaver if your district has ongoing programs or contracts that extend past the standard deadline.

4. What expenses qualify for a late liquidation extension?

Only contracted services that support approved activities qualify for a late liquidation extension. These activities are specifically designed to address the learning gaps and social-emotional needs exacerbated by the pandemic. Examples include:

• Tutoring programs: Extending contracts with tutoring providers to ensure students receive ongoing academic support.
• Attendance initiatives: Funding programs or initiatives aimed at improving student attendance beyond the January 2025 deadline.
• Expanded learning programs: Securing an extension for before and after-school or summer learning programs that provide crucial support to students.

5. What can’t I use an extension for?

A late liquidation extension does not apply to all types of ESSER III spending. Here’s what you cannot use an extension for:

• Staff salaries and benefits: These ongoing personnel costs cannot be covered by extended funds.
• One-time purchases: Items like laptops, textbooks, or other equipment purchases must be completed and paid for by the standard deadline.

6. How does a liquidation extension help?

A liquidation extension provides valuable flexibility for districts. It allows you to keep essential programs running for a longer period, ensuring continued support for students. Here are some specific benefits:

• Maintain critical services: Mental health service providers, extended learning initiatives, or other ongoing programs can continue operating beyond the standard deadline.
• Maximize impact: By extending contracts, you can ensure students receive the full benefit of the program or service funded by ESSER III dollars.
• Streamline program completion: For complex projects that extend past January 2025, an extension allows for smoother project completion without disruption.

7. How to apply for a liquidation extension?

To apply for a late liquidation extension, your district needs to take proactive steps:

Gather Information

Carefully analyze your remaining ESSER III funds and identify specific contracted services that require an extension. Determine the exact amount you need extended and create a detailed justification for the request.

This justification should clearly explain how the extension will benefit students and ensure continued progress toward addressing the pandemic’s impact. Additionally, develop a spending plan that outlines how the extended funds will be used within the new timeframe.

Contact Your State Education Department

They act as intermediaries in this process. Your state education department will compile your request with others from districts across the state and submit it to the Department of Education for approval. It’s crucial to connect with your state department as soon as possible to understand their specific application process, deadlines, and required documentation.

Review Your State’s ESSER Website

Many states have established clear guidelines and application procedures for late liquidation requests. Familiarize yourself with these resources to ensure a smooth application process and avoid any delays.

8. What’s the deadline to apply for an extension?

The deadline for states to submit applications for late liquidation extensions on behalf of districts is December 31, 2024. This means your district needs to act quickly and gather all necessary information well in advance to ensure your state education department submits your application before this deadline.

9. Did districts get extensions for prior ESSER rounds?

Yes, this is a positive indicator for securing an extension for ESSER III funds. The Department of Education has a history of approving late liquidation requests. In fact, for ESSER I and ESSER II

10. Is it possible to use these funds to cover staff costs for managing the extended program?

No. Staff salaries and benefits are not eligible for extensions. This means you’ll need to factor in personnel costs when determining the amount of your extension request and ensure you have separate funding sources to cover staff time associated with managing the extended program. While ESSER funds cannot directly cover salaries for the extension period, they can be used to fund contracted services that may include some staffing support from the provider. It’s important to carefully review the terms of your contract and explore alternative funding options for staff time related to the extended program.

Don’t Lose Your ESSER Funds! Secure a Liquidation Extension for Your District.

Get more information in the official ESSER FAQ document or contact your local education agency.

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