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Browse ShopRock Paper Scissors is one of the most effective teaching tools available - it requires no equipment, every student already knows the rules, and it naturally leads into rich discussions about probability, psychology, strategy, and culture. Here's how to use it in your classroom.
Students play 30 rounds of RPS and record outcomes. Together, the class tallies wins for Rock, Paper, and Scissors across all games and compares to the expected ⅓ probability for each.
Compare results from 10 rounds vs. 50 rounds vs. class-wide pooled data. Demonstrate that larger sample sizes converge toward expected probabilities.
Introduce the concept of Nash equilibrium using RPS. Show that a perfectly random strategy ( ⅓, ⅓, ⅓) is unexploitable. Then challenge students: if your opponent always plays Rock, what's your best strategy? What if they play Rock 50% and Paper 50%?
Students play 30 rounds against a partner, each recording their own throws privately. Afterward, partners exchange records and try to identify patterns in each other's play (e.g., WSLS tendency, Rock bias, alternation).
This teaches the scientific method: hypothesis (humans aren't random), data collection, analysis, and conclusion. It's also a powerful introduction to cognitive biases.
For computer science classes: students write a simple program (Python, Scratch, or JavaScript) that plays RPS. Start with random play, then add pattern recognition (play the throw that beats your opponent's most common throw).
Explore the history of RPS across cultures: from Shoushiling in ancient China to Jan-ken-pon in Japan to Roshambo in the United States. Students research RPS in their heritage cultures and present findings.
A school-wide RPS tournament is one of the most exciting and inclusive events you can run. It costs nothing, takes 30-45 minutes, and every student can participate.
See our Tournament Hosting Guide for detailed instructions on brackets, rules, and judging.
Education events are always free on the WRPSA platform. Create virtual classrooms, run school-wide tournaments, and track student progress - no cost, no limits.