Educational Aspects of Squint Junior - Ages 8 and up

In Squint Junior, a player refers to a card showing the name of an object and an example of a way to build a picture of that object. The Player uses graphic shapes on transparent cards to form the picture on the card. Other players attempt to be the first to guess the name of the object. Simple lines and shapes develop into images that can be surprisingly easy to recognize.

This game reflects communication of ideas through representational images. Players begin to recognize how shapes take on meaning and develop ways of communicating ideas with simple shapes. For example, a circle, with two smaller circles appropriately placed, becomes a face.

Building the Picture

Promotes visual arts skills

• Improves recognition of shapes and patterns
• Develops ability to recreate a given image
• Improves ability to develop a plan
• Increases ability to create images that communicate ideas
• Develops ability to recognize isolated shapes within pictures
• Develops ability to recognize shapes shown in reverse
• Reinforces the understanding of using symbolism to convey an idea

Increases eye-hand coordination

• Provides practice in recognizing and locating shapes regardless of position
• Improves ability to position shape pieces to create desired image

Identifying the Picture

Promotes visual arts skills

• Improves recognition of shapes and patterns

• Improves recognition of images constructed with shapes
• Develops skill in recognizing a three dimensional object portrayed as a two dimensional image
• Reinforces the understanding of using symbolism to convey an idea

Improves vocabulary

• Reinforces the use of specific terms rather than generalizations
• Challenges players to consider alternative terms for similar objects

All Players

Motivates players

• Easy to learn
• Quality of images improves with play

• Each round presents new opportunities to earn points
• Engaging and challenging game materials and activity

Promotes interaction

• Recommended for 3-8 players
• All players are involved in every round
• Players learn from other players’ ideas
• Players learn and practice skills needed in competitive situations