Box the Numbers

How to Play
Box the Numbers is a game for two players, played on a small grid of dots. On your turn, add a vertical or horizontal edge between neighboring dots. If you complete a square, claim the number in your box and go again. Keep track of the score by coloring in your square, or writing your initial inside it.

Whoever has the highest score at the end wins.

Launch
Box the Numbers is exactly like the classic game Dots and Boxes, except that when you complete a box, you don’t simply get a point. Instead, your score changes by whatever number you boxed.

Demonstrate a game by choosing a volunteer and playing in front of the class. Play on a 3 by 3 game board so you have time to finish the entire game, and demonstrate adding up your total score.

Work
Student play in pairs around the room. Circulate to challenge them to games, or help them total their scores.

After some time has passed, have student pairs combine to play a 2-against-2 team game against another student pair. Students can play with different game boards for more variety or challenge.

Tips for the Classroom

1. Play enough demonstration games with students so that therules are clear. (One is usually enough.)
2. Use different colored crayons or pencils while playing for a clearer game.
3. Let students make their own boards and play with them, if they’re motivated to try.