There are many versions of this game out there. It is very adaptable and allows for both number sense and operation practice.
What you need to play this game:
- a partner or a small group
- scrap paper and pencils for everyone
- a 10-sided dice or deck of cards with face cards removed per group.
Basic version: play to make the greatest number possible.
- The group decides whether they will be playing for the biggest number in the tens, hundreds, or thousands
- Each group member sets up their page by drawing a space for each digit plus one square representing a trash can.
- Each group member takes a turn rolling or drawing a card. The number drawn must be placed or discarded in the trash. Choose thoughtfully! You cannot erase a number once it has been placed. Plus, you only get one opportunity to toss your number in the trash.
- The round is over when each group member has filled their spaces. Compare numbers. The greatest number wins the point.
- Start a new round!
Variation 2: play with a partner to make the greatest sum
- You need four players (two sets of partners) for this version.
- Play the same as in version 1 except that the round is finished when the partners have added up their numbers. Partners with the largest sum wins.
Variation 3: play with a partner to make the greatest difference
- Play the same as in version 2 except that the round is finished when the partners have found the difference between their two numbers. The greatest difference wins!
Variation 4: greatest score in the class
- groups add up all numbers in the round and compete against other groups. If groups are uneven and the students are in intermediate grades, they can calculate the average value for their group instead.