Tech Tidbit: SmartyPins

It's time for another Tech Tidbits video, after my track-out session!  This time I am demonstrating the use of SmartyPins, a fun and free website that combines Google Maps with trivia questions on a variety of topics, including Arts & Culture; Science & Geography; Sports & Games; Entertainment; and History & Current Events. 

Smarty Pins

Once the game starts, the user is provided with a maximum of 1000 miles and is provided with a series of trivia questions based on the selected category. Based on the clues provided, the user is directed to place the pin on the location on the map as close as possible to where they think the location is.  Once the answer is submitted, the actual location is revealed with the distance in miles from the submitted location. 

If there is a differential between the provided answer and the actual location, that number of miles is subtracted from the running total.  The game ends when you run out of miles!  If you answer 5 questions correctly without running out of miles, you can choose to start a new game, or continue the game.

 

Smarty Pins could be used as a formative evaluation tool to test students' knowledge of geography combined with science and/or history, or just a fun way to sharpen students' critical thinking skills.  This site could be used to test students' geography knowledge in a fun, low-pressure context that students (and teachers) should enjoy!