We all know how important rounding is in math, but let’s be real – it can be a tricky concept for 3rd graders. Rounding numbers can be challenging, and some kids need a lot of repetition to get it down. Plus, with all the responsibilities we have, who has time to prep a bunch of games and activities? That’s why I’ve put together some easy rounding games that are low-prep or can even be created by the students themselves.
Activity 1: Rounding War
Rounding War is a simple and engaging game that gets students practicing rounding in a competitive way. To make it even easier, have students create their own playing cards using notecards and markers. This not only saves you time but also gets them involved in the prep process.
Materials Needed:
- Deck of cards with numbers.
Instructions:
- Divide your students into pairs.
- Each pair draws a card and rounds the number to the nearest 10 or 100.
- The student with the highest rounded number keeps both cards.
- The player with the most cards at the end wins.
Benefits:
- This game encourages friendly competition and reinforces rounding skills in a fun way.
- Best part? Minimal prep time is needed.
Activity 2: Rounding Dots and Boxes
Dots and Boxes is a classic game that can easily be adapted for rounding practice. By integrating numbers into the game, students can work on their rounding skills while enjoying a familiar and strategic game. Students can create their own game boards by writing random two-digit numbers on grid paper.
Materials Needed:
- 1 inch graph paper with random numbers written in each box, pencils.
Instructions:
- Give students a page of 1 inch graph paper with random numbers written in each box.
- Have them create a grid of dots on the graph paper before beginning the game.
- Students take turns selecting a number from the page and rounding it to the nearest 10.
- If the student rounds the number correctly, they can draw a line connecting two of the dots on the grid paper.
- If a student draws the fourth line to complete a box, they place their initial inside the box and take another turn.
Benefits:
- This activity combines rounding practice with a classic game.
- It enhances strategic thinking.
- Students can help with the prep by writing the numbers and creating the dot grid.
Activity 3: Rounding Four in a Row Game
Four in a Row is a fantastic way to make rounding practice interactive and competitive. This easy rounding game is a breeze to set up, and using dice to generate numbers adds an element of chance that keeps students engaged. Students can create their own game boards by writing rounded numbers on grid paper. If they use color counters when playing, they can reuse their game boards all year.
Materials Needed:
- Game board with a grid, two dice, and color counters or unifix cubes.
Instructions:
- Students roll two dice to create a two-digit number.
- They then round that number to the nearest 10.
- If the student rounds the number correctly, they find the number on the grid and place their marker on it.
- The goal is to get four markers in a row (horizontally, vertically, or diagonally).
Benefits:
- This game is interactive and competitive.
- It encourages critical thinking and planning.
- Easy to set up, and students can help create the game boards.
Activity 4: Rounding Bump
Rounding Bump is an exciting game that combines luck and skill, making it a hit with students. The simple setup means you can quickly get started, and students can even help make the game boards by folding paper into sections and writing rounded numbers in each one. Your students will beg to play this easy rounding game!
Materials Needed:
- Game board, two dice, color counters or unifix cubes.
Instructions:
- Players roll two dice to create a two-digit number.
- They round the number to the nearest 10.
- If they round correctly, they place a game piece on the corresponding spot on the game board.
- If another player lands on a spot with a game piece, they can “bump” the original game piece off.
- If a player places a game piece on a number they already have covered, that number has been captured and the player can no longer be bumped off that spot.
- The player with the most captured numbers at the end wins.
Benefits:
- This game combines luck and skill, keeping students engaged and active.
- It’s simple to set up, and students can assist in making the game boards by folding paper into sections and writing rounded numbers in each one.
Teacher Tip:
One challenge with these games is ensuring students are rounding correctly. A great way to address this is by providing students with a rounding chart. This chart helps them verify their answers during gameplay, reducing debates about correct answers. Plus, it saves you from having to verify answers yourself!
Student-Created vs. Pre-Made Games
Having students create their own games is beneficial because it engages them in the learning process from the start. They take ownership of their learning, which can lead to better understanding and retention of the material. Creating their own games also encourages creativity and collaboration among students.
However, sometimes we need quick, ready-to-use resources. That’s why I offer many of these easy rounding games already made and available for sale on Teachers Pay Teachers. These print-and-go options are perfect for those days when you need something fast and reliable.
Easy Rounding Games
These easy rounding games will help make rounding practice more fun and engaging for your students. They fit perfectly into a busy teacher’s schedule and will give students the practice they need to master a challenging concept. Give them a try and see how your class responds.
If you use any of these games, I’d love to see them in action! Post images on social media and tag @hootyshomeroom.
Looking for an easy way to teach rounding? See how easy rounding can be with number lines!
