Making Integers Interesting

Counting integers can be a tricky concept for students, especially when dealing with larger numbers. This week I was introduced to a multitude of engaging games that make this process a whole lot easier for students!  There are a number of rules when dealing with integers- when adding two negative integers, it will equal a negative, adding two positive integers will equal a positive.  But, subtracting two negative numbers could equal a positive depending on the number sizes and subtracting two positive integers could equal a negative or a positive depending on the number size.  I'm sure we can easily see how this can become easily confusing when simply written. 

C. Duffy. (2016). I25 Game Rules. [phone image]
Retrieved October 20th, 2016 from my Iphone.

Instead, fun games and exercises can be more effective for students and while they're having fun playing the game, they are also simultaneously learning these rules without even realizing.  One game to introduce in the classroom is called I25, in groups students take turns flipping over cards and then figuring out the sum whatever cards have been flipped.  I.e. a black 7 was initially flipped and then you flip over a red 2.  Black being negative (-7) + 2 would equal -5, students would then continue to add on their number to the previous sum in order to reach 25.  You can switch the mode of mathematics depending on what you want students to practice also- subtraction, adding etc. 

I25 is a useful game for practice later on into a lesson I feel.  It requires students to perform higher levels of math skills and at higher numbers.  This is great to get students practicing integers of larger numbers i,e -57.  A good game to implement at the start of a integer lesson is integer football.  Integer football, uses a number line, giving students a visual manipulative to help produce their sums.  This game gets students acquainted with certain rules of integers.  

C. Duffy. (2016). Integer Football. [phone image]
Retrieved October 20th, 2016 from my Iphone.

With integer football, students roll a dice and flip a coin, heads or tails will be appointed to either positive or negative and then students will move the amount of spaces they rolled on the dice.  The goal is to get to their end of the number line, which is considered a "touch down."  the number line helps students visualize how integers work, which will help them gain the foundations for harder games such as I25.

Both games allows students to practice integers but in a more interactive way.  In doing so, the rules will retain better in their heads because they have actually actively participated in problem solving.  This of course should still be coupled with some worksheet material so that students are still able to figure out problems on pen and paper, which is especially important for the tests.  However, a combination of paper work and games, makes math a lot more meaningful for students and as they play each game, their own inquiries will arise, creating more critical thinking among students.