I know you are anxious to get started with that unit, but you need to begin with the leaderboard. This is the most difficult part because it requires you to bring together a lot of data and information into one place and make it work. You will use Google Sheets to collect data and you will program the cells to perform functions so you can have a Leaderboard that automatically calculates and sorts points. We are starting here so you can understand the possibilities and the limitations to tracking game points in your classroom. This is a long process so hang in there!

The first step is the most enjoyable. You need to think about what you will call your points. You could use dollars, Kelvins, XP, points…. Next, what will you call your groups (if you use groups - this may not apply). They could be guilds, clans, groups, teams, Towns, Business, House, Counties, Districts.

Okay, now for the hard part. You will be using a series of three Slide decks and sample spreadsheets to learn all about Google Sheets! Everything you need including the quizzes are embedded within the slide decks below. You might want to take notes for reference. Good luck!

Google Sheets Formulas

If this type of badge/point system is too much for you, then you could do something a little easier. The easiest 'other' way is to track points/badges on a poster in the classroom, which would probably work best for younger children. Another easy badge display is to use the Sheets add-on called Flippity. Here is a brief tutorial for using all the features of Flippity. There is also a way for students to track their own badges as they earn them using codes that you create and share with them. Finally, you could always use stickers on paper OR fork over the cash for an actual badge program. I do everything on the cheap so I have no recommendations for you!

Please take note that if you are taking this course for graduate credit, YOU MUST complete a full Google sheets leaderboard in order to get credit for the course.

You are ready for Quest #5!