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Noughts and Crosses
Answer a vocabulary question correctly to place your mark on the grid.
⏱ 10-15 min⚡ Low energy👥 2 teams
📚 Vocabulary
• any lesson vocabulary
• spelling
• definitions
• questions and answers
🛠 Materials
• Whiteboard with a 3x3 grid drawn
• Vocabulary question list
📋 How to Play
- Draw a large 3x3 noughts and crosses grid on the board.
- Divide the class into two teams — Team X and Team O.
- Teams take turns. One child from the team comes to the front.
- Teacher asks a vocabulary question.
- If they answer correctly, they choose a square and mark it with X or O.
- If they answer incorrectly, they cannot place a mark and it is the other team's turn.
- First team to get three in a row wins the round.
- Play multiple rounds — keep a score.
💡 Teacher Tips
✓Write a vocabulary word in each square — children must use it in a sentence to claim it.
✓Let the whole team help the child who is answering for the first few rounds.
✓This game creates great competitive energy without putting pressure on individuals.
✓Play 3-4 rounds to keep the game moving — reset the grid after each win.
🔄 Variations
→Place flashcards in each square — children must name or spell the word to claim it.
→Use a 4x4 grid for a longer, more strategic game.
→Play in pairs at their desks using paper grids.
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