Play to Learn: Dice of Fury

The first three games we have looked at in our Play to Learn series have been games that take longer to play.

Settlers of Catan, 60-90 minutes

Carcassonne, 30-90 minutes

Ticket to Ride, 30-60 minutes

 

There are ways that teachers can be creative with how the games are played, saved, collaboratively played across different classes of the day, but sometimes we need quick games. Quick games can still connect to content in the classroom, but are time savers!

Here is one of my FAVORITE short games to use in the classroom!

 

Dice of Fury

Think Yahtzee, with more math content connections! Flip a challenge card and start rolling (and re-rolling!) to get the right combos for your dice holder. Finish first? Grab the Furious Jumbo Die to win the round. First to win 10 rounds wins the game.

The challenge cards have two levels of difficulty to easily scaffold the game for different grade levels. Cards include challenges to complete based on:

Matching Numbers on the dice, sometimes with color matching.

Adding and subtracting numbers to meet a target number.

Practicing understanding of odd and even numbers.

And other various challenges.

How can you use this in your classroom?

• Addition and Subtraction: Use the dice rolls to practice basic arithmetic. Have students add or subtract the numbers they roll.
• Multiplication and Division: Challenge students to multiply or divide the numbers rolled.
• Probability: Discuss the likelihood of rolling certain combinations and explore basic probability concepts.
• Collaboration: Have students work in teams, fostering cooperation and communication.
• Sportsmanship: Emphasize the importance of fair play and good sportsmanship.
• Fine Motor Skills: Rolling dice and handling game pieces can help improve dexterity.
• Vocabulary Development: Use the game to introduce and reinforce new vocabulary related to math and game-playing.
• Instructions and Directions: Practice giving and following instructions, enhancing comprehension and communication skills.

What are some ways you can scaffold this for different grade levels? Scaffolding Dice of Fury for primary grade levels involves simplifying the rules and focusing on basic skills. Here are some ideas:

• Basic Rolling and Matching: Focus on rolling the dice and matching numbers or colors. Remove complex combinations and just have students recognize and match simple patterns.
• Fewer Rounds: Instead of aiming to win 10 rounds, reduce it to 3-5 rounds to maintain attention and avoid frustration.
• Number Recognition: Have students identify and name the numbers they roll. Subitizing!
• Counting Practice: Encourage counting the dots on the dice to reinforce number sense.
• Rolling Dice: Teach proper rolling techniques and practice handling the dice to develop fine motor skills.
• Manipulating Pieces: Use the dice holder and game pieces to improve dexterity.
• Taking Turns: Emphasize turn-taking and waiting patiently, key aspects of playing games.
• Cooperation: Pair students to work together, promoting teamwork and communication.
• Simple Instructions: Use clear, simple language to explain the rules and objectives.

By adapting the game to suit the developmental stage of primary, intermediate and middle school grade bands, you can create an enjoyable and educational experience that promotes basic skills through play.

Integrating Dice of Fury into classroom activities can create a dynamic learning environment that reinforces educational concepts through play.