Joe Pereira Eclipsing Expectations 2011 A narrative at war with a crossword an introduction to Interactive Fiction

Interactive Fiction What is it? How to play IF - An example Learning with IF Q&A

Photopia - Adam Cadre (1998)

What is Interactive Fiction? An interactive narrative, where the reader is able to influence the pace of the story and how the story unfolds through input based on natural language

Characteristics of IF a text accepting, text generating computer program a narrative a simulation of an environment or world a structure of rules, with which an outcome is sought: a game Montfort (2003)

Common elements of IF you are the main character(s) in an interactive narrative, usually narrated in the 2nd person, present simple exploration/ collection and manipulation objects solving of logical puzzles

This is game is ideal as an introduction to IF : short (20 minutes) real life setting, familiar world/language no actual puzzles, only simple object interaction very interesting ending multiple endings, replay value Example of an IF Game 9:05 by Adam Cadre (2000) An experimental piece of IF

IF for (Language) Learning Digital Game-based Learning (The Crossword) Flow Stealth learning Cognitive skills vs Content Situated Learning

IF for (Language) Learning Literature (The Narrative) meaning rather than medium, fluency process rather than product teacher role - facilitator though-provoking provides meaningful and memorable context for new vocabulary and structures insight into socio-cultural meaning stimulates imagination, critical and personal response

Reading comprehension and fluency are developed. In IF, every word needs to be considered - nothing can be overlooked, otherwise puzzles will not be solved and new avenues will not open themselves up to the reader. Having access to a dictionary or working out the meaning of unknown words through context is a must Built-in assessment: Making progress through the game is clear evidence that the reader is understanding not only the words, but how the words fit into the world model. Authentic goal: Making progress involves using language for a real purpose - to finish the story. Autonomous learning: A teacher is not required as IF provides the context for learners to use language necessary to achieve immediate goals - with immediate feedback on success. Advantages of using IF for Language Learning

SkillsAutonomousClassroom Reading Reading comprehension fluency Reading comprehension fluency Listening text-to-voice CMC - Negotiation of meaning Speaking- CMC - Negotiation of meaning Writing spelling typing skills spelling typing skills other spatial representationsMisc. dynamics Language Skills Work AloneWhole-classPair/Group

while reading - IF provides natural pauses for reflection and progression is a clear sign that sts are understanding the text. Pre-reading - motivate the sts to read for pleasure: prediction activities (what will the story be about based on title, opening lines) - contextualisation activities aimed at activating sts schemata (knowledge of the world, their preconceptions) and so challenge stereotypes and facilitate an open-minded encounter with cultural diversity. Some sort of vocabulary building activity is recommended so that sts won't ask too much about unknown words during play. post-reading - discrete language work (adjectives, vocabulary) follow up speaking, writing, based on theme, cultural content, etc. Further literary analysis can also be explored such as: character motivation, examination of narrative plot structure (plot, setting, point of view). IF as a class activity: Pre, During & Post

Choosing the right IF for your students genre/theme short or long game single room or multi-location narrative vs crossword classic or current Make sure you play it through first! Hints, walkthroughs, maps are available online.

Where to find FREE IF games Interactive Fiction Database : in conjunction with: Baf’s Guide: and To play games you will need the game file(usually *.z5 or *.zblorb)and an interpreter - the program which runs the file. I recommend: Zoom for Macs Gargoyle for Windows Frotz for iPhone Twisty for Android Alternatively, you can now play many games online: Try http :// parchment.toolness.com or (in conjunction with games from ifdb.tads.org)http :// parchment.toolness.com Infocom online : Download all Infocom games : Recommendations and further thoughts on IF for teaching and learning at

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