Training in the New Curriculum, Factorising with the Squares Game

So with the new curriculum under way, and being one of the first to be trained in the new curriculum. I find myself constantly on the quest for resources which can encompass this problem solving aspect while still not detracting from the core maths skill that I am trying to teach.

I am a bit of a sucker for resources as you may have noticed so I have been trying to combine both a strategy based problem solving type game and combining it with the core mathematical skills for that topic.

This resource is based around the famous 'squares game' where each player has to win the most squares possible. Combining this with factorising, each player has to answer a question and then gets to cross that line out.

I initially just wanted a new and fun way of giving my class 24 questions without them realising the volume of work I was giving them. Being able to add in this rough attempt at problem solving at the same time was a mega bonus!

After testing the resources the one thing I did note was to make sure students answer the questions in their books to avoid someone cheating! Yes it does happen!

This also allowed me to get students to work in pairs to answer the desired question for the groups who found it more challenging. The students absolutely loved it, I did have a starter for 5 minutes playing the original squares game to avoid half the class giving me the 'I don't have a clue how to play this' look. Definitely worth it as they were off like rockets when I gave it out.

If you would like to download the squares game - factorise (1) then follow this link. Alternatively you can visit the algebra resources page here.

Let me know how it goes, it's always nice to hear that others are finding these things useful :-)