No doubt that a breakout box engages students in learning. Students enjoy using the provided clues to open a lock – 3 digit lock, word lock, color lock or a key lock. Once all the locks are open, the box may contain a prize – candy, certificate and other congratulatory items. The breakout boxes can be homemade or purchased through a kit.
With a breakout activity, students work together in teams, problem-solve using clues, learn to fail and try again, and reflect on the process. The breakout clues can cover class content or a fun team building activity. A quick online search will locate many ideas from educators.
While the breakouts are fun and engaging, the management of the materials can be time-consuming. Over the years, it has taken creativity and problem solving to set up a system that creates a smooth set up process.
Management Tips
We developed a system to help manage the process.
- Number each box and corresponding locks. Box 1 locks all have a #1 label written on them.
Example of Labeled Box
- Organize the boxes when not in use with all corresponding locks inside.
Example of a box with all locks labeled
- For all key locks, label the lock and key the same. (The extras key are hidden.)
Example of Key Label
- If you have Breakout Edu multilocks, organize the pieces in separate bags.
Multilock – All red nodes need to align to open.
All color pieces put into a bag.
- Create a bag for the multilock “prong” pieces. One prong piece goes on the lock before adding the other pieces.
Prong pieces are placed on the lock first. Keep a bag of prongs separate and easily find.
Additional Tips:
When short on time, we often create digital breakout locks. Click here fore more information about how to create a digital breakout.
Students often like to use the locks like fidget toys once opened. We provide pipe cleaners for learners to use. Some teachers use a basket or a “lock garage location” when the locks are opened.
To create accountability, we use a handout for students to list the group participants and the box number. This can be helpful if a lock is changed. Click here to view handout.
Resources
Breakout Boxes DIY: Learn how to make a DIY breakout box and save money.
Digital Breakouts Made Easy: Great ideas and resources for creating a digital breakout.
Breakout Edu: A subscription site that provides tools and breakout activities.
Yes to all of this!
I am in a small K-8 library and frequently offer seasonal Breakout boxes during choice time in the library. I often have 3 going simultaneously at various levels.
I opted to use paint markers to color code all my boxes and locks and then use large envelopes that I color code to contain all of the clues and any additional items (cipher wheel, flashlight, etc.). This has made it much easier for students to keep things together.
I also keep a chart on the wall with the name and grade levels of the Breakout game contained in each color box so that I can match students to games and I keep a printout of each game overview at my desk so that I can reset easily (and occasionally ask a guiding question to help students get back on track if they get lost!).