USA Bingo is a fun way for your students to learn the basic geography of the USA (states and capitals). Though the focus is learning where the states are there is a lot of other geography sprinkled throughout.
Many Ways to Play
- 2 Different Bingo Cards
There is a 4 x 4 bingo card and a 5 x 5 bingo card. The 4 x 4 card squares show the states in their context with surrounding states. The 5 x 5 card squares show ONLY the state. Both types have a star showing the locations of the state capitals. - Show the State
Simply show the state flash card to students. This is great for when students are just learning the states. - Name the State
Once students have learned the states by sight, simply say the name of the state. - Read the Story Clues
Each flash card has two clues in a short story type format. By naming surrounding states, geographical features and cities in an entertaining way the students determine what state it is. - Read the Quirky Rhymes
Each flash card has one quirky rhyme that gives a clue for the state and capital. - Student Review
Students can use the flash cards on their own to learn and review the states without playing the game.
Instructions for Dismantling USA Bingo
Instructions for Dismantling Africa Bingo
The above is for Africa Bingo, but this procedure uses a paper cutter.
Sample Bingo Cards, Flash Cards & Maps
Sample Clue
We are standing on the highest point east of the Mississippi River, Mount Mitchell (6,684 feet). It was named after Elisha Mitchell who died in 1857 while trying to verify his original findings that this was the highest peak east of the Mississippi. Let’s all remember that. Don’t second guess yourself. There’s a moral here that I think… “Cut! What are you doing?” I’m just trying to use a historical event to pass on some of my great knowledge and wisdom. “No. Don’t do that. It’s a bingo game! Stay on task!” Man, that guy is irritating. Anyway, this peak is also the highest peak in the Appalachian Mountains which pass through this state. North of us is Virginia, south of us is….well, I’m not going to tell you because that would really give it away, east of us is the Atlantic Ocean and west of us is Tennessee. Which state are we in? And for a two year round trip to the planet Mars (food not included) which state is south of us?
Sample Quirky Poem
My new Yorkshire Terrier is much smaller than my Saint Bernard.
Its head doesn’t reach Al’s boney knee even when its jumping hard.
