There are several types of concentration memory games. Many of the designs are for educational purposes including science and mathematics.
Using matching games to teach students mathematics
The mathematical concentration had several different topics: multiplication, division, addition and subtraction. One popular memory matching game involves the designs set up with two grids made up of four squares across by four squares down.
The grids on the left displayed the formula (Example 6x9) and the grid on the right displayed the product (Example 54). The player would match the formula on the left grid to the product on the right grid.
In another version the designs are made of one grid in which the formula and the answer are combined.
Using matching games to teach children science
In playing several versions science concentration there were memory games that used different categories of science: marine biology, chemistry and planetary science.
An example of the diversity of concentration patterns, a marine biology matching game used deep sea creatures and marine life in a one grid design. The grid would be arranged to match pictures of the marine creatures themselves.
This memory game had a second unique element. When the player is finished the memory game each sea creature would be shown and facts about the creatures would be displayed which adds to the educational aspect of the game.
Some of information that was mentioned about the species were diet, size, relatives, and some conservation tips.
A chemistry concentration was arranged in a one grid pattern in which the player matched a variety of chemistry pictures such as a beaker, atoms, molecules and formulas.
A planetary science outer space memory game used another creative design in which the player matches the words of different aspects of the universe to the pictures.
An good example would be the word "satellite" matching to a picture of a satellite in a one grid pattern.
Memory matching games come in many flavors
There are so many options to designing concentration games for reinforcing learning and memory. It's only limited by the creator's imagination.
Some other ideas for keeping the games interesting are to combine the sounds of animals with a picture of the animal.
Another example would be to use English words to match with the corresponding French, Spanish, etc. words or any combination of languages.
Other ideas include matching a music clip to a picture of the musician, using the text of a number (Example eight) to match the digit (Example 8).
These are just a few examples of how diverse concentration and memory games can be arranged. The complexity and difficulty can vary as well.
Adult games can be designed to use more squares within a grid and use similar pictures which can make this game more challenging. In addition, the games are usually timed so the player can keep track of their progress.
The designs can be simplified for younger players as well, by using fewer squares within a grid. Also, using topics and pictures diverse and simplistic enough for the appropriate age group and learning level.
Therefore, with such a range of designs and challenge levels this a great game for all ages. So go have some fun and take the memory challenge.
About the Author
Suzanne Lyon works for Softgame Company, maker of
card games, video poker and puzzles. She writes articles for the Company web sites.
