This is a level 4 number activity from the Figure It Out series. It relates to Stage 7 of the Number Framework.
A PDF of the student activity is included.
Click on the image to enlarge it. Click again to close. Download PDF (334 KB)
add and subtract integers
A dice marked B, B, B, S, S, S
A dice marked -3, -2, -1, 1, 2, 3
FIO, Level 3-4, Number, Book 1, Walking the Plank, page 23
A counter
A classmate
Game
This is a game to familiarise the students with integers. The negative sign is associated with moving backwards.
As an extension, encourage the students to record what they threw on their dice and then to try to work out their finishing position.
They could also swap their record of their dice throws with a classmate to see if they can work out each other’s finishing position.
The students could also discuss whether varying the starting position would alter the outcome of the game.
Answers to Activity
Game
A game using integers
The chances of winning or losing appear to be equal. The chances of facing the boat or the shark are equal, and the chances of a positive or negative number are also equal. Therefore the chances of moving in either direction are equal.