Play Now (or visit https://www.tjessberger.com/climbers).
This was an experiment to see if I could vibe-code my way to a usable framework & playable prototype for competency-based learning. The framework ingests standards (like Common Core) and develops practice, challenges, and the mountain students will climb.
—
Welcome to Math Mountain Climber, an engaging game designed to help Grade 1 students master essential math skills based on the Common Core Standards (specifically 1.OA – Operations & Algebraic Thinking). More than just practice, this game is built on the principles of Competency-Based Learning (CBL), ensuring students learn at their own pace and demonstrate mastery before moving forward.
How to Play 🎮
The goal is simple: climb the Math Mountain!
- Start at the Base: Every climber begins their journey at the bottom of the mountain.
- Reach Base Camps: The path up the mountain is marked by several Base Camps. Each camp represents a specific math skill or concept (a competency) that needs to be mastered. The current camp’s goal is always clearly displayed.
- Practice Zone: Before attempting the main challenge for a level, students can explore the “Practice Zone,” choosing from various activities designed to help them understand and practice the camp’s specific skill.
- Level Challenge (Gateway Assessment): When feeling confident, students attempt the Level Challenge. This short assessment directly tests their mastery of the Base Camp’s competency.
- Climb Higher! Successfully passing the challenge allows the climber’s avatar to move up to the next Base Camp! Collect fun “Stickers” (badges) for each competency mastered.
- Reach the Summit: Master all the Base Camps to reach the top and become a Math Whiz!
How Math Mountain Connects to Competency-Based Learning (CBL) ðŸ§
This game isn’t just about getting answers right; it’s about building real understanding. Here’s how it aligns with CBL:
- Explicit & Measurable Competencies: Each Base Camp has a clearly defined learning target tied to a specific standard (e.g., “Understand the equal sign,” “Solve word problems within 10”). Students know exactly what they need to learn at each stage.
- Mastery-Based Progression: Students only advance up the mountain after demonstrating mastery by passing the Level Challenge. There’s no moving on until they’ve shown they understand the current concept.
- Flexible Pacing: Learners climb at their own speed. They can spend as much time as needed in the Practice Zone or attempting the challenge, ensuring they don’t feel rushed or held back.
- Meaningful Assessment: The Level Challenges directly assess the targeted competency. Practice activities provide formative feedback opportunities. The goal is assessment for learning, guiding the student’s next steps.
- Student Choice & Agency: Within each level, students choose which practice activities they want to use. They also decide when they are ready to attempt the Level Challenge, giving them ownership over their learning process.
Benefits for Learners ✨
- Engaging Gameplay: The mountain climbing theme, visual progress, and sticker rewards make learning fun.
- Clear Goals: Students always know what skill they are working on at each Base Camp.
- Builds Confidence: Mastering each step before moving on helps build confidence and reduces math anxiety.
- Personalized Pace: Ensures students get the time they need to understand concepts thoroughly.
Math Mountain Climber offers a fun, structured, and effective way for students to build a strong foundation in essential math skills, one competency at a time!