You've Been Sentenced! (Review)
by Brighter Minds
Disclosure
This product was purchased by us. We did not receive compensation for this review. All opinions expressed are our own. This review includes an affiliate link. We may receive a small commission if you click on the link and make a purchase. See our full disclosure for more information.
Overview
You've been Sentenced! is designed for 3 to 10 players ages 8 and up. Players build grammatically correct sentences using pentagon-shaped cards containing variations of common words and famous people, places, and things. Players read their sentences aloud, and they can be challenged by the other players. Sentences can be as short as 2 cards, so with a little assistance, this game can be played by younger players, too.
Contents
- 540 Pentagon-shaped cards
- Score sheet pad
- Sand timer
- Pencil
Price
- $24.95 (at the time of this review)
How to Play
Players pick 10 cards each and then simultaneously flip them over and try to form sensible, grammatically correct sentences. The first player to form a sentence flips the timer and the remaining players have until the sand runs out to form their sentences. Players then take turns reading their sentences. If any player objects to the validity of another player's sentence, the remaining players form a jury and vote. If the sentence is rejected, no points are earned. After all sentences have been read, judged, and scored, new cards are picked and a new round begins. The object of the game is to earn the most points, so players try to use as many cards as possible when forming their sentences. Also, some word variations are worth more points than others, so an added challenge is to use higher scoring words. The first player to earn 200 points (or more) wins.
Educational Emphasis
You've been Sentenced! helps kids identify the different parts of speech (including nouns, verbs, pronouns, adverbs, adjectives, prepositions, articles, and conjunctions) and teaches them how to combine and construct complete sentences.
The Good
This fast-moving, laugh-out-loud card game is perfect for helping kids build their grammar skills. The unique card shape and cleverly chosen words make it entertaining for kids and adults alike. Here are a few features worth mentioning:
- Rules are simple, and there are rule variations that let you adapt the game as needed.
- Short game play. (It only takes about 30 minutes to play.)
- Great for families, small homeschool groups, and coops.
- Expandable with Add-On-Decks.
The Not-So-Good
It's all good!
Tips
- Create teams so children (and adults) of all ages and skill levels can play together.
- Be sure to try out some of the game variations!
- Use the cards to help younger children review the different parts of speech.
- Older children can use the cards to create sentences and then diagram them a sheet of paper.
Recommendation
We highly recommend this game to homeschooling families. Rules can be modified, so kids of all ages and skill levels can benefit from playing.
Summary
You've been Sentenced! is an adaptable, fast-moving sentence building card game that is perfect for children of all skill levels. Younger children can learn to build sentences and recognize the different parts of speech; older children can practice building compound and complex sentences. Because of its uniqueness and significant educational value, You've been Sentenced! has earned our Seal of Approval.