Addition and Subtraction Game
Grade Level: 2-8

OVERVIEW A group activity that provides review and drill in the format of a game for learning facts in subtraction and addition. This lesson appeals to multilevel and multigrade situations. The Students get so caught up in the game they consider it an exciting challenge rather than a drill or review.

OBJECTIVE(s)
1. Practice addition and subtraction facts and processes.
2. Use accuracy in adding and subtracting.
3. Develop speed when adding and subtracting.

4. Understand the concepts of adding and subtracting.

RESOURCES/MATERIALS

1. A die
2. Lined paper
3. Pencil

 

ACTIVITIES AND PROCEDURES
1. Draw on the board three parallel horizontal line-segments intersected by two parallel vertical line-segments. What you have made is a grid of empty boxes with three boxes in each of the three rows (see figure).
2. Place a "+" or "-" sign next to the second horizontal line segment.
     
     
+    
3. Have the students copy this onto their papers.
4. Explain to the students that you are going to roll a die and the number that is rolled is to be placed into one of the squares in the top two rows. The bottom row is for the answer. The die will be rolled until the empty boxes in all the rows, except the bottom row, are filled.
5. They are then to work the problem.
6. The object of the game is to get the highest number if adding or the lowest number if subtracting.
7. While the students are putting their numbers onto their paper you are also playing by putting your numbers into the squares on the board.(I found this to help the slower students, and the quick students try to beat you.)
8. Then ask if anyone beat your answer. The best answer is written on the board and anyone with that answer receives a point.

9. Create smaller or larger grids to adapt to your students level. · The lesson could be extended to any grade (mentioned) by producing different dice with different numbers desired (whole numbers, decimals, measurement units etc.) on each face depending on the learners' (age & maturity) level.

TYING IT ALL TOGETHER: This should be a group "fun" activity. Not only does it give them a relaxed environment to practice the skills they've learned, it gives you a chance to evaluate their progress. Check papers for: 1. Accuracy 2. Concepts learned 3. Speed

SUGGESTIONS/ MODIFICATIONS:
  • You may allow a high scoring math student to roll the dice as a reward for good marks.
  • You may add another column to the figure in order to increase the difficulty.
  • The students can be taught to make their own dice and play with partners.
AUTHOR: Kaye Miller; Lincoln City Jr. Academy, Lincoln City, OR http://www.col-ed.org/cur/