Games in Mathematics

Why Play?

Is there any need to actually play the games if the object is merely to provide a setting for doing some mathematics? After all the game could be explained very quickly and the follow-up work started immediately. However, it is best that the games are played properly for three reasons. First of all there is the intrinsic mathematics which always present. Second, there is the high level of interest and motivation which games-playing generates. Third, and perhaps

most important, is the deeper understanding of the situation to be worked on which can be gained only by playing through several games. Far too often students are expected to try and analyse a situation of which they usually have little or no previous experience. Here at least there is a chance to remedy that defect. To provide everyone with experience of a common activity, a system needs to be put in place which affords playing opportunities to all.
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The NRICH website has a series of 4 articles looking at the use of games in the classroom
     * Why use games
     * Types of games
     * Creating your own games
     * From Strategy Games to Investigations