Math Activity: Build the Bigger Number
For many kids, it can can be challenging to get the hang of numbers and master the math concepts of digits and place value (ones, tens, hundreds, thousands). Finding a painless way to practice math concepts like these can be an even bigger challenge! With this intriguing little game that involves luck, strategy and a lot of number-building practice, you can sit down with your child and practice reading multiple-digit numbers without boring her to tears.
Getting Ready
Decide whether you are going to make number cards (index cards work well) or use a modified deck of playing cards for this game. You will use four of these number cards to build each of your numbers. Then make your two sets of place value labels using 3” X 5” index cards or something just about that size. Write one of the place value words—ones, tens, hundreds, or thousands—horizontally on each of the four cards. You will use these place value cards to label the digits as you build numbers.
With your child, select a flat playing area—the kitchen table is fine—and let the fun begin!
Activity: Build the Bigger Number
- Explain that the game works like this: You take turns drawing number cards until you each have four number cards, which you arrange into a four-digit number. Each time you draw a card, you must decide whether to put it in the ones, tens, hundreds, or thousands place. The object of the activity is to build a bigger four-digit number than your opponent builds.
- Sit side-by-side to play. Before you begin, start by laying out your place value labels in the correct order in front of you. Have your child do the same, talking through what she is doing (“The ones go here, and then the tens . . .”); observe carefully to make sure she has the place values in the right order. Sitting next to your child rather than across from her during play means she can see your numbers as well as her own right-side-up.
Shuffle the number cards and place the deck number-side down on the playing surface where both of you can reach it. To demonstrate game play, go first and take the top card, turn it over, and put the card below any of your place value labels. For example, you draw a 6 and place it in the tens column. Keep in mind that you want to build the biggest number you can with your four cards; but once you place a card, you cannot move it.
- Now it’s your child’s turn to draw a card and place it below one of her place value labels. Complete the round by taking turns drawing three more cards each and putting each under one of the remaining place value labels. Only one number can go under each label.
At the end of the round, each of you should read your four-digit number out loud and compare the two numbers that you’ve made. Determine which number is bigger. That person gets one point for the round. The person with the smallest number gets a penalty point for the round. Remember that the person with the fewest points at the end of five rounds wins. Clear the number cards, shuffle the deck, and play again.
- After a couple rounds, start to discuss your game strategy with your child by asking questions like:
- What have you decided to do with the low numbered cards? Why?
- Where would you put the high numbered cards? Why?
- If I have a five in the thousands place, what number would I need to build a smaller number?
Play as many rounds as you want. When you finish, put the cards somewhere handy so you can easily play some more at any time.
What activities do you use to give the kids math practice in a new and fun way?
Activity from Kaplan’s Making the Grade: Grades 3-4, Creating a Successful Learning Environment at Home.