The NCAA March Madness Syllabus Challenge is an annual online learning challenge for teachers that blends academics, career exploration, and skills with the college basketball tournament every March.

It targets students in 5th to 9th grade and features micro-badges, prizes, and awards to motivate teachers and students to participate.

THE CHALLENGE CONSISTS OF 4 MAIN CHALLENGES:

• The Bracket challenge involves creating a bracket predicting the outcome of the tournament games while also integrating math and statistics concepts.
• The Letter challenge focuses on writing impactful letters to inspirational coaches,  teachers and others, showcasing communication and writing skills.
• The Map challenge involves exploring the geography of the tournament locations while also developing mapping and research skills.
• The Mascot challenge involves creating a new team mascot and integrating art and design skills.

Throughout the challenge, students will earn micro-badges for completing each challenge and have the chance to win prizes and awards based on their class’s performance.

The challenge not only helps students develop academic and career exploration skills but also encourages them to engage with the excitement of the March Madness tournament.