Create an Interactive Matching Game for Your Classroom

This matching game tool is a fun and engaging way to review vocabulary and practice word recognition. Teachers can enter their own custom words or choose from a selection of pre-made word lists. The tool then generates a 4×4 interactive grid where students flip tiles to find matching pairs.

Screenshot of an interactive online Matching Game for teachers to use in the classroom.

Creating a matching game literally takes seconds. Just paste in words or phrases from your lesson, click “Create,” and you’re done! You can use it as a fun warm-up activity, a quick review at the end of class, or whenever your students need a brain break.

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How To Play

Step 1: Choose “Custom” or “Pre-made”

Start with a ready-made vocabulary list or create your own by entering at least 8 words.

Step 2: Edit or enter your words

You can edit the pre-made list or type your own — one word per line. If you enter more than 8, the game will randomly select 8 from your list.

Step 3: Click “Create Matching Game”

Your word list will be turned into a 4×4 memory game grid with 16 tiles.

Step 4: Take turns flipping tiles

Students pick two tiles at a time. If they match, they stay face up. If not, they flip back. As the game goes on, students will start to remember where words are hidden.

Step 5: Reset or change the list

When all pairs are matched, click “Reset” to shuffle and play again with the same words — or click “Edit Words” to use a new word list.

Suggested Ways to Use This Tool

The Matching Game is a simple and engaging way to review vocabulary in class. It works well with all ages and levels, and there are lots of ways you can use it in your lessons. Here are our favorite ways to use this tool.

Whole-Class Memory Game

The simplest way to play is to display the game on your screen and have students take turns by raising their hands. It’s a great warm-up or review activity that gets everyone involved.

Team Challenge

Divide the class into two teams and take turns flipping tiles to find matching pairs. Award points for each match and keep score to add a fun competitive element.

Teacher vs Students

Play as the teacher against the whole class! Take turns flipping tiles and try to find more matching pairs than your students. This version adds a fun challenge and really motivates students — they’ll be extra focused if they have a chance to beat the teacher!

Vocabulary Practice

Use the game to reinforce both spelling and meaning. Before students flip the second tile, ask them to read the first word aloud and try to use it in a sentence or explain what it means. This adds an extra layer of practice and helps students become more familiar with the vocabulary as they play.

Ready to get started?