Bring on the Games

As we begin a new year in first grade, it is important that we introduce the math manipulatives that we will be using throughout the year. We will use counters a ton this year, so what better way to introduce them than with a game! 

Today, students played the game “Nim”. The rules are simple: players take turns taking 1, 2, or 3 counters from the pile with the goal in mind of trying not to take the last one. When the game ends, all the counters are put back in the middle and the game starts again. 

Before we got started I modeled with a student how to play the game. Boy was is surprised when I lost! Right from the start I could see my partner’s wheels turning to try not to end up taking the last counter. She was so strategic with her picks and I could tell she was counting in her head to decide what to take, thinking of all the possibilities for what could happen next. 

With a pump of hand sanitizer, we were all ready to play! As students began to play with their partners, I could see the same wheels turning all around the classroom. This simple game of counting quickly became extremely strategic. Students were counting and thinking out aloud to try not to end up taking the last counter. I was blown away by these thoughtful choices and can’t wait to see and hear more of their mathematical thinking as we move through the year!