“Taboo di Terra - GeoMeraviglie”: un gioco educativo sui fenomeni naturali
Journal
MISCELLANEA INGV
Date Issued
2025-03-11
Author(s)
Ferrari, Elisa
DOI
10.13127/misc/95
Abstract
“Earth Taboo ‐ GeoWonders” (or Taboo di Terra ‐ GeoMeraviglie) is a serious educational game aimed
at engaging high school students in understanding the role of geosciences and natural phenomena in
shaping the planet, while providing a fun and interactive learning experience. Inspired by the classic
word game “Taboo”, players guess geological terms based on clues without mentioning certain
forbidden words.
The game unfolds in two phases. In the first, students are guided by geoscientists to guess terms from
three thematic categories: “Phenomena”, “Earth”, and “Society”. Teams earn points for each correct
guess, creating a competitive yet educational environment.
What sets Earth Taboo apart from traditional Taboo is its second phase, which centers around a
discussion of “unexpected” or unfamiliar words. This is the game’s most innovative feature,
encouraging students to explore the connections between these words and geoscience concepts. By
linking everyday language with scientific terms, players develop critical thinking skills and a deeper
understanding of the subject matter.
Earth Taboo has evolved through multiple tests and refinements into a dynamic educational tool,
combining fun with learning. The experience is further enriched by thematic seminars, which equip
participants with foundational knowledge and enable them to engage with the game on a deeper level.
In blending gaming with scientific education, Earth Taboo not only fosters a greater appreciation for
Earth’s natural processes but also encourages students to reflect on the importance of these
phenomena in the broader context of the planet’s equilibrium.
at engaging high school students in understanding the role of geosciences and natural phenomena in
shaping the planet, while providing a fun and interactive learning experience. Inspired by the classic
word game “Taboo”, players guess geological terms based on clues without mentioning certain
forbidden words.
The game unfolds in two phases. In the first, students are guided by geoscientists to guess terms from
three thematic categories: “Phenomena”, “Earth”, and “Society”. Teams earn points for each correct
guess, creating a competitive yet educational environment.
What sets Earth Taboo apart from traditional Taboo is its second phase, which centers around a
discussion of “unexpected” or unfamiliar words. This is the game’s most innovative feature,
encouraging students to explore the connections between these words and geoscience concepts. By
linking everyday language with scientific terms, players develop critical thinking skills and a deeper
understanding of the subject matter.
Earth Taboo has evolved through multiple tests and refinements into a dynamic educational tool,
combining fun with learning. The experience is further enriched by thematic seminars, which equip
participants with foundational knowledge and enable them to engage with the game on a deeper level.
In blending gaming with scientific education, Earth Taboo not only fosters a greater appreciation for
Earth’s natural processes but also encourages students to reflect on the importance of these
phenomena in the broader context of the planet’s equilibrium.