TL;DRL
Word puzzles such as crosswords, word searches, and scrambles are not just fun. They are effective educational tools that enhance motivation, vocabulary, memory, and self-confidence. An accompanying acrostic summarizes their value. Solving puzzles boosts student confidence, reduces test anxiety, and fosters a “success breeds success” mindset that encourages further learning. This extensive collection of subject-based puzzles—spanning Biblical Literature, Cultural Anthropology, Theology, World Ministry, the Church, and World Religions—serves both academic and missional purposes.
"Let me tell you a riddle" — Judges 14:12
Word puzzles used in classes and seminars and in the promotion of world evangelism
Some people like to solve word puzzles as a pastime. If you do, use these as a learning tool while you are enjoying the challenge of solving them.
| "A highly
cited study by Robert S. Weisskirch found that students enjoyed doing crossword puzzles as a
way to review the material. He states that when students identify the answers of a crossword
puzzle correctly, they may experience an increase in self-confidence. This can have a ripple
effect. First, entertaining study materials can increase self-motivation in students to learn and
study more. Plus, educational crossword puzzles can ease the anxiety produced by other
assessments. Success breeds success by convincing students of
their ability. "In [another study], researchers similarly found that students perceive themselves to be better equipped to handle concepts due to the crossword puzzle exercise. A 2013 study came to a similar conclusion, finding that crossword puzzles can help students improve their knowledge of vocabulary, while also increasing their motivation to learn." -- Kristen Seikaly |
"This is a great way to learn and have fun with it." -- Richard Slusser, Nazarene Bible College student
Mirror for Humanity textbook
Introducing Cultural Anthropology textbook
Bible word search and word scramble puzzles
"I know that . . . no mystery puzzles you" -- Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar words to Daniel (Daniel 4:9, Holman Christian Standard Bible)
"It was fun and informative to complete the puzzles. I appreciate the time you spent creating puzzles as an interesting method of learning. -- Lynda B., Nazarene Bible College student
-- Howard Culbertson, hculbert@snu.edu
P - Promote critical thinking and focus
U - Unlock vocabulary through fun challenges
Z - Zestfully engage learners of all ages
Z - Zone in on spelling and word structure
L - Learn through discovery and deduction
E - Encourage perseverance and patience
S - Strengthen memory and cognitive skills
