Students answer questions correctly to collect treasure from the bottom of the ocean floor. Each piece of treasure is worth different amounts of points depending on its size and colour. Who will surface with the highest score and the most glittering gems?

This version focuses on identifying bias and understanding the difference between objective and subjective language. Students are presented with a range of short texts and asked to uncover bias through multiple-choice questions. By analysing tone, word choice, and perspective, students build their critical thinking and comprehension skills while becoming more discerning readers.

With each correct answer, students collect treasure and add it to their boat. Occasionally, they’ll come across a surprise treasure chest filled with mystery items. But be careful—an incorrect answer means the treasure falls back into the ocean! The game continues until all questions are answered, and the player with the highest total wins.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Identify examples of bias in written texts
• ✅ Distinguish between objective and subjective language
• ✅ Analyse word choice and tone for author intent
• ✅ Develop critical literacy and reading comprehension skills
• ✅ Engage in meaningful literacy practise through interactive gameplay

How to Play:

1. Students are shown a short excerpt or statement and asked to identify bias or evaluate language.
2. Correct answers earn a piece of treasure added to their collection.
3. Incorrect answers result in the treasure sinking back into the ocean.
4. Occasionally, players will find a treasure chest filled with mystery rewards.
5. The game continues until all 20 questions are answered. The player with the highest score wins!

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use during literacy or persuasive writing units focused on bias and author intent
• 💡 Pair with news articles or opinion pieces to apply skills beyond the game
• 💡 Encourage group discussion about why certain texts are biased or objective
• 💡 Use as a revision task before persuasive writing assessments

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Let students personalise their experience by choosing from six characters before the game begins
• 💛 Select the number of players or teams at the start of the game to suit individual, paired, or group play
• 💛 Send the QR code home for students to play as a homework or revision task

Let’s Sail – Identifying Bias transforms critical reading into a treasure-hunting adventure where students dive deep into language, tone, and perspective!