The “Challenge Cube” is a playful classroom activity that helps students try out new approaches when they get stuck on a task. Students roll a cube when they are unable to continue, and the challenge associated with the rolled number (e.g., “Try a different way!”, “Ask for help!”, “Draw it!”) supports them in finding a solution. The goal is to develop cognitive flexibility in a playful and engaging way.
Skill focus
Primary Skill Focus
- Flexibility
Complementary/Secondary Skill Focus
- Creativity
- Problem-solving
- Curiosity, sense of wonder and openness
| Age group | Student number | Duration |
| 6 + years old | class size | variable |
Proposed step by step implementation of the learning activity
- Students work individually or in pairs to solve tasks related to the lesson content.
- When the teacher signals, regardless of whether the student is on the right track or not in completing the task, they have to roll the Challenge Cube.
- Based on the result, they apply another strategy and try the task again.
- The teacher observes throughout the process but does not give direct answers; rather, they support independent problem-solving.
- At the end of the lesson, a short discussion can take place: Which challenge helped you the most? How did it feel to try again?