Objective

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to apply arithmetic skills while playing Blokus.

Materials and Prep

• Blokus game set
• Pencil and paper
• Basic understanding of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division

Activities

• Activity 1: Counting and Placing Blocks

  In this activity, you will practice counting and placing blocks on the Blokus board. Start by counting the number of blocks you have. Then, take turns with your opponent to place one block at a time, making sure to count the total number of blocks on the board after each turn.

• Activity 2: Addition and Subtraction

  In this activity, you will practice addition and subtraction while playing Blokus. Before each turn, calculate the total number of blocks on the board. After placing your block, subtract the number of blocks you used from the total. If your opponent places a block, add the number of blocks they used to the total. Keep track of the changing total throughout the game.

• Activity 3: Multiplication and Division

  In this activity, you will practice multiplication and division while playing Blokus. Assign a point value to each block shape based on its size. For example, a single square block can be worth 1 point, a two-square block can be worth 2 points, and so on. Multiply the point value of each block you place by the number of squares it covers. Divide the total points by the number of blocks placed to calculate your average score per block.

Talking Points

• "In Blokus, we use arithmetic skills to keep track of the number of blocks on the board."
• "Counting the blocks is important to ensure fair play and strategic decision-making."
• "By practicing addition and subtraction, we can calculate the changing number of blocks after each turn."
• "Multiplication and division help us assign point values to different block shapes and calculate our average score per block."
• "Remember to always use your arithmetic skills to make informed decisions and outsmart your opponent in Blokus!"