Jeopardy-style review games are a classroom classic—and for good reason. They energize students, break up routine, and turn test prep into something students actually look forward to. But running the game smoothly takes a little planning.

Here’s a practical, teacher-tested guide based on real advice from classroom teachers who have used Jeopardy successfully across grade levels and subjects.

1. Pick Your Format: PowerPoint or Online Game Board

Many teachers start with a PowerPoint template, but several recommend an easier alternative.

“I used a PowerPoint template at first, but now I use JeopardyLabs.com because it allows me to keep track of the score.” –KateL

JeopardyLabs is popular because:

• It automatically handles scoring
• It’s fast to set up
• Works well with projectors
• Makes gameplay smoother and less distracting

2. Form Teams That Encourage Participation

Different teachers use different structures depending on class size and behavior needs.

“My students sit at tables of 4, so each table is a team. They get a mini whiteboard and work together.” –KateL

“I use groups of 6. Every group answers every question…” –RockguyKev

“Groups of 3–4. Each student solves the problem individually first, then they compare and agree before writing the final answer.” –Jeky

“I divide into two teams and rotate whose turn it is based on seating order.” –Sam Aye M

Choose the team size based on:

• Desired noise level

• Your need for control vs collaboration

• How much peer explanation you want students doing

3. Skip the Buzzers—Use Whiteboards Instead

The overwhelming teacher consensus: buzzers = chaos.
Whiteboards = calm competition + 100% participation.

“After 15–30 seconds, teams hold up their whiteboards. Every correct team gets the points.” –KateL

Why it works:

• Everyone thinks, not just the fastest student

• Quiet students contribute

• Loud, competitive students can’t shout out

• Teams naturally collaborate and explain reasoning

• There’s no arguing over who buzzed first

“Very competitive students stay quiet because they don’t want other teams to steal their answers.” –MrsC

This method removes 90% of typical Jeopardy behavior issues.

4. Choose a Scoring Method That Works for You

Teachers use several systems:

A. Automatic scoring (easiest)

JeopardyLabs handles it for you.

B. Teacher scorekeeper

Fine for small groups, but takes attention away from facilitating.

C. Student scorekeepers

“Each team has a scorekeeper. Honestly, I never even total the scores—they never ask!” –Jeky

This keeps students busy and removes a task from your plate.

5. Build Structure That Supports Learning, Not Just Winning

Here are effective practices teachers shared.

Require individual thinking first

“Each student solves the problem individually before discussing with the team.” –Jeky

Double points for explanations

“The team that chose the question can earn double points if a randomly chosen student can explain the answer.” –Jeky

Flexible help

“If a student needs help, the team can quietly support them. If I know a student doesn’t need help, I don’t allow it.” –Sam Aye M

This mixes accountability with peer tutoring.

6. Tips for Keeping the Game Fun and Organized

• Use a timer or bell so there’s no arguing

• Rotate team captains

• Offer small rewards for teamwork, not just points
   “I give a small treat to the team that works together the best.” –Jeky

• Establish expectations for noise before starting

• Pause the game if the noise gets too high—students learn quickly

7. Works Great in Virtual Classrooms Too

“My virtual platform shows who raises a hand first. We’re doing this a lot more—our male teacher even dresses like Alex Trebek.” –catnfiddle

Try:

• Breakout rooms for team discussion

• Digital whiteboards

• Reaction buttons for “buzzing in”

8. Why Jeopardy Works Before a Test

Especially for classes that feel burned out, teachers find that Jeopardy:

• Breaks monotony

• Boosts confidence

• Encourages peer explanation

• Makes review feel like a reward

• Reduces pressure

Many teachers say students request Jeopardy for review days.

How to Explain Jeopardy to Younger Students (Like 3rd Graders)

If students have never played before, especially in elementary grades, you’ll want to teach the game first, then add academic content.

1. Begin With a Simple Practice Round

“I made a simple game to give them the idea before we played with our content.” –teacherintexas

Use easy questions:

• Favorite animals

• School routines

• Simple math facts

Kids focus on how to play instead of trying to solve hard questions.

2. Model the Process Step-by-Step

“Show them what a sample question looks like and talk aloud as you do it.” –Leaborb192

Model:

1. Choose a category

2. Read the question

3. Think aloud

4. Answer

5. Explain how points are awarded

Use short, clear instructions and gestures.

3. Show a Quick Video Clip

“Find a snippet of kids Jeopardy on YouTube and show it.” –SpecialPreskoo

A 20–30 second clip helps them visualize:

• How turns work

• How the board looks

• How answers are given

This reduces confusion once the game begins.

4. Simplify the Rules for Elementary Students

“I don’t take away points for wrong answers… I keep three categories and only assign 100, 200, 300 points.” –readingrules12

For younger learners:

• Only award points (don’t subtract)

• Use 3 categories

• Keep scoring simple

• Introduce “Double Jeopardy” halfway through for excitement

5. Expect High Energy—and Plan for It

“Your kids will get loud and crazy the first time. Just rein it in.” –Leaborb192

Let students know:

• It’s okay to get excited

• You’ll pause the game if noise gets too high

• Signals (bell, hand up) mean freeze and listen

Structured enthusiasm = smooth game.