"Sticks and Stones"

A couple of years ago, I saw the following adorable math game posted on The Wonder Years.  I wanted to link back to the specific post, but was unsuccessful in finding it...  This game consists of simple popsicle sticks and beautiful, tiny stones.    To make the game, I used 14 popsicle sticks and marked one number (0-9) on each one with the corresponding number of placement dots for counting the stones.  The children play in pairs and takes turns selecting one popsicle stick at a time.  They read the number on the top of the stick and count that many stones to place on the dots.  The game continues until no popsicle sticks remain.  Lastly, the children count the total number of stones collected on the sticks and the child with more stones is the winner of the game.  I wanted to be sure to utilize the numbers six through nine because while most of the children in my class easily identify 0-5, some need additional practice with the remaining numbers.  Furthermore, the older students in the class can use this as an addition lesson and write down their equations after playing the game.



The materials set up at a table for two children:  Jar with numbered popsicle sticks, bowl with stones (total number matches total from all popsicle sticks combined).



A selected popsicle stick...

...with the two counted stones.

One of the many reasons I enjoy having games available for the children is to practice good sportsmanship!  We encourage the kids to shake hands and declare, "Good Game!" after each playing session.