Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will learn about the history of video games, how they are made, and have a better understanding of the technology behind them.

Materials and Prep

Materials: Computer or gaming console, internet access

Prep: None

Activities

1. Research the history of video games and create a timeline of important events.

2. Watch a documentary or video about how video games are made.

3. Design your own simple video game concept on paper, including characters and objectives.

Talking Points

• Video games have been around for a long time. They started with simple games like Pong and have evolved into complex, immersive experiences we have today.
  "Did you know that the first video game ever made was 'Pong' released in 1972?"
• Game developers use special software and programming languages to create video games. It's like writing a story, but with code that tells the computer what to do.
  "Imagine writing a story where you decide what happens next, and the computer follows your instructions."
• Video games are made up of graphics, sound, and gameplay mechanics. Graphics make the game look realistic, sound effects create atmosphere, and gameplay mechanics are the rules and interactions in the game.
  "When you play a game, you are interacting with a world that developers have created using graphics, sound, and rules."