A Calculator Doubles Game

This is a straightforward maths board game from the "four-in-a-row" family. The overt focus is for children to practice using a calculator to double numbers; however, the covert focus is for children to mentally halve numbers!

The download* features a single game board. Two children compete against each other armed with counters and a calculator. Each in their turn states a number they have 'thought of' and uses the calculator to double this number - if the final result is on the board they can cover it with a counter. Play alternates between the players and the first to get four counters of their colour in a row (horizontal, vertical or diagonal) is the winner.

Clearly, to play strategically, the children need to look carefully at the board and choose a target number. They then need to determine (mentally) which number they are going to 'think of' and consequently double in order to play a counter in the correct place.

In short, the game entices children to undertake a good range of number calculations.

If you don't like the competitive element - then change the rules so that the children play together, collaboratively agreeing on a number before using the calculator. Their intention is to get four counters in a row within a specific time limit. The children could use a stopwatch to time how long it takes them... this could result in a class leader-board... and a series of 'matches' to see which pair have the best time... but now we're back to competition again (sorry).

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