Some time ago I wrote about StoryBits, a simple yet creative tool to implement storytelling into your class. I found it a pretty nice "last resort" tool as you can use it when your class gets awkwardly silent - just pick a card and think about something you can use it for. This autumn brought a much-welcome variation of the original game, StoryBits Kids.

I think everyone, teachers and students alike, feels more or less murderous in September, especially on Mondays. So what can we do? Absolutely: bring proper crime to the classroom, have fun and relieve the negative feelings! I want to share some of the mystery-solving activities I've been working with for a surprisingly long time, and they're still loved by my students.

My classroom policy is very simple: communicating in English and having fun. And whenever I feel less creative, I use one of my favourite free applications on my mobile phone to bring in some fun and discussion - it works every time, so I've decided to share seven of those that never let me down.