Four in a Row
Math Concepts
Addition- single digit, Number bonds
Materials
Game board, colored tokens for two players, die
Players
2
Set up
Use a die to create random numbers from 1 to 6. The players share an 8 by 8 game board filled out with numbers from 1 to 6. In creating a filled out board for this game, there is nothing special about the arrangement of the numbers on the board, so feel free to fill in the board by casually sprinkling numbers as you like.
Play
On a turn, a player rolls the die to create a random number. The player then puts their markers on 1, 2, or 3 squares whose numbers add up to the amount of the roll. The squares do not need to be near each other.
Goal
The winner is the first player to get four squares in a row, either horizontally, vertically, or diagonally.
Discussion and Traits
Discuss whether it is better to use one, two, or three numbers on a turn. Is it better to have one or two large numbers, or three smaller numbers?
What are some strategies about when to block your opponent versus creating lines of four for yourself?
Variations
You can vary the range of numbers by using dice with more than six sides, by using two dice instead of one, or by using playing cards with numbers covering your desired range. If you change the range of numbers, create an 8 by 8 board that has numbers appropriate for that range.
You may want to use a6by6boardfor younger children.