Math Game Monday: Blockout

In this game, players practice multiplication facts and use strategic planning as they build 2-D shapes to block their opponent.

Many parents remember struggling to learn math. We hope to provide a better experience for our children.

And one of the best ways for children to enjoy learning is through hands-on play.

Blockout

Math Concepts: multiplication, area, 2-D shapes.

Players: two players.

Equipment: square graph paper (lined or dotty).

How to Play

Players share square graph paper (lined or dotty). Each player needs a different color pencil or pen. On your turn, roll two dice and multiply them. Color one completely connected shape with that area.

If you can’t make a shape that fits on the page, you miss that turn. The game ends when there are two missed turns in a row. Whoever colored the greatest total area wins.

Optional: Keep a running score of your total area in the margin of your graph paper or on a separate page. (It’s easier than counting squares at the end!)

Math Journaling

Use this game as a journaling prompt. Here are some sample questions:

• What is your strategy for winning?

• Do you think this is a fair game, or does one player have an advantage?

• How would you modify the game rules? Is your version easier or harder than the original game?

• Do you prefer logical strategy games or games of chance? Or do the best games have a bit of both? Explain.