Ages ago when I was a teacher I made loads and loads of file folder games. I would sit and watch Deep Space Nine on DVD and color all of those silly games, and then take them down to the teacher supply store and laminate them. This huge stockpile of games has finally paid off in our homeschool math lessons, I was able to pull them out.
Where our math facts game came from
I started rummaging through my old teaching stuff and found this great game from Instant File Folder Games (affiliate link). I highly recommend this book for some fun early elementary math games. Future Ticia speaking now, sadly there are not really any GOOD books like this for upper elementary that I’ve found. Much sadness.
How we used the math facts game
Before playing the game I set them to figuring out all of the ways they could make nine using two addends. I put out the nine for them to build on, and they happily set to it.
Eventually they had a small handful of equations that added up to 9. Or, the boys did. Princess on the other hand, sat there insisting she wasn’t able to do it until I showed her how it was done. She’s going to be one I have to figure out what to do. She’s capable but second guesses herself way too often.
Eventually we got down to playing the game. It’s quite simple, you take off two numbers that add up to 9 and go around until all of the numbers have been taken. The person with the most numbers wins. YEAH!
I love this book. I also have the language one. 🙂
Sounds like a great game.
Suggestions, suggestions…
I think making games based around favorite children's books and different seasons are ALWAYS a great way to integrate the subjects.
Let us in on your designs when you're done! :0)
Great Game! I wonder if Princess's little hesitation isn't like Selena's just a lack of confidence. They eventually gain their confidence and everything just clicks.
LOVE this game:) I think we may have to try it!
I am so familiar with “can't do it” denials. Usually they disappear when there is a chance to compete, that's why games for learning are so great.
I'll have to try something like this with my son…it looks like a great way to teach addition while having fun!
I hate math – but with my visual learner we do a lot of Yahtzee !!
That looks like a fun review game!