Math Games for the Social Distanced Classroom Part 2.

There are more games and more games that can be modified to play in the classroom during times of social distancing.  Games we can play during social distancing, or via distance learning are important.  No more sending problems down the rows.  No more moving people up or down the rows.  So we have to make changes.

1.  Match Game - This is where students are given a worksheet with three columns.  The first column has the problems while the second column has the answer but they are not lined up correctly.  In other words the answer that is next to the problem do not match up.  In the third column, students work out the problems and once they have the answer, they write the letter of the answer next to the problem.  

This can be done with any math topic from solving simple equations to trigonometric functions to multiplying binomials.  It takes just a bit of work to prepare the sheets a head of time but well worth it.  Furthermore, this game could be done using cards on the desk with the problem worked out on the back of the card with the problem.  

2. Round Trip - Although this is normally done with students standing next to each other, it can be played with 6 feet of distance.  This can be played with students sitting at their desks while using white boards. First step is to designate the the first two players but have the other students ready to work the problem to check the two designated players work.  Show the first problem and let the two designated students work out the problem.  The first one with the correct answer as checked by the other students get to play against another student.  The idea is if one student can work their way around the room completely, they are the total winner otherwise, go with the one who answered the most problems.

Any math topic can be used for this game which makes is possible to use it in everything from basic math to calculus and anything in between.

3.  Loopy numbers - This game has students follow a specific rule such as one follows for a function machine.  The rule is "Multiply the ones digit by four and add 1 to the product.  This rule is applied to the result of the previous calculation where you multiply the ones digit by four and add one to the product and continue.  An example might be begin with 15 so you do 4 x 5 + 1 = 21.  Then you take the 21 and multiply the 4 x 1 + 2  = 6. The next round would be 4 x 6 + 0 = 24.  Then 4 x 4 + 2 = 18 followed by 4 x 8 + 1 = 33.  Then we have 4 x 3 + 3 = 15.  At the end, the student should end up with the number they started with.  No matter what two digit number they choose, if they follow this rule, they will end up where they started.

4.  Coordinate Battle Ship - This is a version of battle ship that uses two squares of graph paper on one sheet.  The left side is filled with the players ships while the right one is where they mark down hits, etc.  To start, each player marks down their ships on their coordinate plane with one carrier, two destroyers and three submarines using dots. When both players have placed their ships, one person calls out a coordinate of where they think the other person has a ship.  The other person says hit or miss and then calls out a coordinate for them.  With social distancing, it is easy for people not to sneak a look, especially if you have students use a folder to create a wall.  If you'd like, this site has a sheet all ready to go along with the directions.  Students have a fun way to practice or review the use of coordinate planes. 

Here are four more games that can be played in a socially distanced classroom.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.