Math Game Monday: Strike It Out

This game features addition and subtraction on a number line, along with strategic thinking.

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.

So what are you waiting for? Let’s play some math!

Strike It Out

Math Concepts: addition, subtraction, thinking ahead.

Players: only two.

Equipment: pencil or pen, blank paper.

Set-Up

Draw a number line and label the numbers 1–20. Or use the printable page from the free download.

The 23-page printable (pdf) Number Game Printables Pack file includes hundred charts, graph paper, and game boards from the first two Math You Can Play books.

How to Play

The first player strikes two numbers (draws a line through them) and circles their sum, saying the equation. Once a number has been struck out, it cannot be used in any future turn.

Then the second player must strike out the number the first player circled and one unused number, and then circle either their sum or their difference. Be sure to say your equation out loud, so the other player can check your mental math.

The first player has to add, but after the first turn you may choose to add or to subtract. Continue to take turns striking two numbers (one of which must be the answer from the last turn) and circling their sum or difference.

Eventually, of course, the numbers will run out. Whoever makes the last legal move wins the game.

History

Strike It Out is from the Nrich website, which is part of the Millennium Mathematics Project, a math education initiative from the University of Cambridge. The Nrich site is full of mathematical activities and resources for teachers and school-age students. Browse and enjoy.