Activity can be taught in the classroom or online
Google, Windows, & Mac-friendly!
All documents are editable to meet your classroom needs.
This activity is included in the Input & Output Technologies Unit Plan- Information Technology
Critical Thinking Meets Real-World Tech Scenarios
Get your students up, moving, and thinking with this engaging, fast-paced group activity designed to deepen their understanding of input and output devices. Perfect for digital literacy, information technology, or business tech classes, the Input & Output Match-Up Challenge transforms passive learning into active problem-solving.
Students work in small teams to analyze real-world technology scenarios and decide which input and output devices best match each situation. With justifications encouraged and bonus points awarded, students expand their tech vocabulary, apply critical thinking, and participate in engaging classroom discussions.
What’s Included:
Editable Slide Deck featuring scenario prompts
Printable or Projectable Input & Output Device Option List
Detailed Teacher Instructions & Answer Key
Optional Setup Ideas for Competitive Gameplay
Wrap-Up Discussion Prompts & Extension Ideas
Activity Objectives:
Identify a variety of input and output devices
Match appropriate tech tools to realistic tasks
Justify device selection using reasoning and communication skills
Explore the role of accessibility and multiple valid tech solutions
How It Works:
Team Setup: Students are grouped into teams of 2–4
Gameplay:
The teacher presents a real-world tech scenario
Teams select one input and one output device to match
Teams reveal their answers and earn points for accuracy and justification
Discussion: The teacher explains ideal answers and leads a quick debrief
Wrap-Up Options: Class reflections, accessibility discussions, and custom scenario creation
Scenarios Include:
Narrating a podcast
Drawing a comic on a tablet
Scanning a receipt
Playing a VR game
Typing an essay
Using a smart home device
…and more!
Perfect For:
Grades 6–12 digital literacy, computer applications, or intro to IT
CTE business or tech pathway programs
Review lessons before assessments
Bell-ringers, tech warm-ups, or substitute plans
Why Teachers Love It:
Real-World Relevance: Applies technology to everyday scenarios that students recognize
Interactive Format: Encourages teamwork, debate, and fast decision-making
Low Prep: Ready-to-teach with flexible delivery options
Standards-Aligned: Reinforces ISTE and NBEA tech fluency standards
Bring tech concepts to life with the Input & Output Match-Up Challenge—where students turn knowledge into action!