Teaching Integers with Math Games

As a mom and math teacher, I am always looking for ways to make learning and practicing math fun; hence: the creation of Games by Absolute Zero! To learn more about the creation of my signature game, read this earlier post.

Absolute Zero Junior came about at the suggestion of a fellow teacher. I had sponsored my first vendor booth at the Arizona Association for Gifted and Talented Annual Conference. At the time, Absolute Zero was my only game. The game was well received so I knew I was filling a need of parents, teachers, and students. One gifted teacher at the conference said “I wish you had something for younger children. I think my elementary gifted kids could play this game with a little support.”

I went home and thought about her request.  I reflected on how I introduced integers to my students with the use of integer chips representing positive and negative numbers.  I also thought back to how elementary students are taught subitizing, the ability to immediately recognize how many are in a small group, and making ten with the use of ten frames.  This led me to create Absolute Zero Junior that represents each number in a ten frame with red negative chips or black positive chips. 

If you are looking for a way to introduce integers to your young learner, or have a middle school student who still struggles with positive and negative numbers, check out Absolute Zero Junior.

Already had fun with Absolute Zero? Check out HUNCH. Another integer game by Absolute Zero.

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