Title: Make “X”
Purpose: To use the order of operations to form a number sentence to make “x.”
Grade level/TEKS Reference: Sixth grade and up
6(2) Number, operation, and quantitative reasoning. The student adds, subtracts,
multiplies, and divides to solve problems and justify solutions. The student is expected
to:
(E) use order of operations to simplify whole number expressions (without
exponents) in problem solving situations.
Length of time necessary for Game: 10 minutes or longer depending on skill level and desire
to continue to play
Number of Participants: 1 player minimum
Source for Game:
http://www.sheppardsoftware.com/mathgames/makex/makeXAS2_level1.htm
Directions:
This game requires an understanding of the order of operations and creating a number sentence.
Students have to use the four operations, addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division in
order to create a number sentence to form the number “x.”
During Level One, the student is given two cards (cards 2 – 10, A = 1, J = 11, Q = 12, K = 13)
and the student must use one of the four operations to make “x” with a time limit of one minute.
The student will use the mouse to drag the card and operation to the blackboard. If the student
wants to change their number sentence, they can place the operation and card back to its original
location or move the location of the card and/or operation to a new spot on the number sentence.
Once the student is finished making the number sentence, press submit.
Once the student surpasses to Level Two, Three, and Four, an additional card is given and the
number sentence is more complex. Parentheses can also be used to form the number sentence to
form “x” if needed. When the time limit is up, the game displays the possible answer and moves
on to the next turn. At the end of the game, a score is given to the student.
Level One consists of two cards and one operation is needed to make “x” with a time limit of one
minute for each turn.
Level Two has three cards and more than one operation is used to make “x.” Time allotted for
each turn is two minutes.
Level Three has four cards and more than one operation is used to make “x.” Time allotted for
each turn is three minutes.
Level Four has five cards and more than one operation is used to make “x.” Time allotted for
each turn is five minutes.
Students can email teacher scores.
Presented by: Vanessa Garza (2011)