On today’s show… Minecraft is a powerful tool for learning, and language learning is where that power really shines. We’re going to talk about how Minecraft can be used to help you deliver amazing language learning lessons.  You can build a world, craft a story and then live in that world while you learn. We’re not just talking English either. We’ll talk to Glen Irvin this week about how he used Minecraft in his Spanish language classes to provide that same deep, meaningful experience.

Glen Irvin

Twitter: https://twitter.com/irvspanish

• NPCs are humanoid characters in Minecraft that can be used to provide ambiance, fun interactions and communications related to lessons, directions or dialogue. To create NPCs, open your inventory (type E) and add a Spawn Egg to your inventory. Place the Spawn Egg to create an NPC. To program an NPC, right click the NPC to bring up the customize screen. In this screen, you can change the name, displayed text and skin. You can add URLs and special commands in Advanced Settings. World Builders can re-access this menu repeatedly to edit it. The name of the NPC will remain visible from a distance, even through walls. When an Operator or non-World Builder right clicks on an NPC, they will see the displayed text. For more information visit our Minecraft: Education Edition knowledge base.
• Using Minecraft in ESL with young learners: https://education.minecraft.net/blog/using-minecraft-in-esl-with-young-learners
• Minecraft: Education Edition for English Language Learners: https://education.minecraft.net/blog/minecraft-education-edition-for-english-language-learners

Join the Minecraft Education Challenge! This virtual build challenge invites students around the world to learn about issues related to sustainability and inclusion, then design solutions with Minecraft: Education Edition.

Create your own prompt that invites students to address a local issue impacting your school, community or region. This could be something like designing a more accessible version of your classroom in Minecraft. Think about people with different learning styles and disabilities, so the space is a safe and inspiring environment for everyone to be healthy. 

Or build a more sustainable version of your school in Minecraft. Consider a holistic definition of sustainability, which may involve rethinking energy systems, recycling, transportation, and how nature plays a role.

Share progress and stories of your Challenge experience via Twitter and Facebook, and tag us using our Twitter handle @PlayCraftLearn and the hashtag #MinecraftChallenge, and then post your results on the Minecraft Challenge Flipgrid page.