Splat!

Splat! is a competitive recall game that turns revision into a physical, high-energy activity. Key terms, answers, or images are displayed on the board in a scattered arrangement. Two learners stand at the front with their backs to the class, then turn to face the board when the clue is read. The first to slap their hand on the correct answer scores a point.

The game works because it combines several effective learning strategies. Retrieval practice strengthens memory. Time pressure creates engagement. Physical movement adds energy. Competition motivates. And the watching class is actively thinking about the answer even though only two learners are at the board.

Splat! is versatile. In Mathematics, display numbers and give clues like "the product of 7 and 8." In Science, display key terms and give definitions. In Languages, display Welsh vocabulary and give English equivalents. In Humanities, display dates and give historical events. The format adapts to any subject where recognition and recall are important.

The game is best used for consolidation and revision, not for introducing new content. Learners need some prior knowledge for the game to work. It is also important to include a range of difficulty levels so that all learners can participate, not just the fastest.

Splat! develops the "Reflect" strand of thinking skills through recall and self-evaluation, as learners assess their own knowledge against the speed and accuracy of their responses. It supports cross-curricular numeracy through rapid calculation and works across all AoLEs wherever recall of key facts and terminology is important.

Rainbow Curriculum's Thinking Tools lens helps you plan where active retrieval games are used across your curriculum, keeping revision energetic and engaging.