Energy Duels: A Playful-Didactic Approach to Teaching Energies in Physics

Teaching Physics is considered difficult and educational games are mechanisms that facilitate learning. This work describes the development and application of “Energy Duel,” a didactic board game designed for teaching Physics concepts, specifically the different forms of energy derived from nature. Faced with the challenges of abstraction and students’ lack of interest, the research proposes an active methodology that employs playfulness to promote more dynamic and meaningful learning. The game, originally conceived and crafted with accessible materials such as cardboard and modeling clay, is played by two pairs of students on a board with squares, including, at random, “luck” and “misfortune” spaces. The dynamic involves two types of cards: “challenge,” which presents a higher level of difficulty and requires the pair to explain the energy concept on the card; and “dribble,” which addresses various forms of energy (mechanical, nuclear, solar, etc.). Collectible pins provide strategic powers that can be used during the match. The practical application revealed that the game enhances engagement and collaborative interaction among students, facilitating learning in a didactic way. Results indicated that participants demonstrated greater familiarity with everyday energy sources, while more complex forms required deeper understanding.