Creation of a Math Game

Introduction

Winter break is on the horizon. Parents want to ensure that their children have an enjoyable break; however, they also want to make sure that their children don’t forget everything they learned during the first semester.

Task

Your job is to create a game for 2 to 4 players that allows children to practice their math skills while having fun with their friends. This game can be a board game, a card game, a game show game, or even an out door game. The math skill children practice while playing the game must be something we covered since we returned from fall break (ie: Fractions, Graphing, Multiplying and Dividing with Large Numbers).

 

Resources:

You can use parts, such as movers and spinners, from other games that already exist. Check the cubbies and horseshoe table for other resources such as rulers, colored pencils, and paper. 

Examples of Commercials for Games:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3i7TrgK5Vl8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_dJr2SdyLGk&index=1&list=PLuKKJ5FR6_i8v-c-c6EA5OgatbDJutzy5

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRZoGm8zb14&list=PLuKKJ5FR6_i8v-c-c6EA5OgatbDJutzy5&index=97

Process

             Working in a group of 2 to 4 students you are to create a game involving at least one of the math skills we covered since returning from break. You must decide the type of game and the math concept or skill by the end of class on Friday, December 1st. Once you have made your decision you will need to notify Ms. Knight.

            Friday and Monday you will have most of the class period to work on your game. Tuesday you will have a few minutes to finalize your game and then you will present it to the class.

            Wednesday, after listening to each group present their game, you will select two or three games that you would like to play. Each group will start at a game, play it for a little while and then be instructed to rotate to a different game. When you play a game you will also evaluate it using a rubric. Keep in mind that while you are playing other people’s games they will be playing yours. You need to have a rules/instructions page and any other necessary materials available, so your peers can play your game.

Evaluation

 

 

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Neatness

Game is sloppy, which makes it difficult to play

Game can be played, but is a little messy

Game is easily able to be played and looks like solid effort was put into making it

Game is easily able to be played and has an attractive, engaging appearance

Educational Value

There is no math skill needed to play

Math problems are basic and only require mental math to solve

Math skills require some depth of knowledge of certain math concepts

Knowledge of a certain math skill is measured through questions varying in difficulty

Directions/Rules

The directions were unclear and hard to follow and/or the game was missing multiple parts

The directions were slightly challenging to follow and/or not all parts of the game were there

All materials needed to play the game were available and the directions were able to be followed with minimal difficulty

All materials needed to play the game were available and the directions were easily able to be followed

Engagement/Creativity

The game would not be able to maintain a child’s attention for very long.

The game could grasp a child’s attention; however, it is very similar to a game that already exists. A few parents would buy it.

The game could entertain a child for a short period of time and has elements that are different from other games. Some parents would buy it.

The game is unique and would easily be able to entertain a child. Many parents would buy it.

 

 

 

Conclusion

Ideally through this activity you will practice math concepts and be able to help others do the same in a fun, engaging way.