This is a great 2-digit addition game. It's not mine originally, but I don't remember where I learned it.
Kids should play with a partner.
One partner (the builder) writes a secret math problem for 2-digit addition in his math journal.
The second partner (the guesser) draws a game board.
And writes the digits 0 - 9.
The game is similar to hangman.
The guesser chooses one digit and calls it out.
If the digit is part of the problem, the builder writes it into each square in which it belongs.
If the digit is not part of the problem, tally a strike at the top of the page.
Cross out the digit so that you know it has been played.
Here's an example:
26
+37
63
If the first digit chosen is 1, the builder marks a strike at the top of the page. 1 is crossed off the digit list so the guesser remembers that it has been played.
Assume the next digit chosen is 2. The builder writes a 2 in the first square of the game board. 2 is crossed off the digit list.
If the guesser chooses 3 next, the builder writes it in two squares of the problem.
There are good strategies involved here. Students will guess randomly at first, but soon, they are finding sums, missing addends, and deciding whether regrouping is involved.
After the game is over, switch parts and play again.
Variations:
If 3 players are playing together, one is the builder and 2 guessers take turns.
Problems and game boards can get bigger. Try 3 digit addition.
