Number of Players: Entire class (can also be adapted for individual play)
Objective: Work together to solve problems correctly and double points to reach a target score, like 1,000,000 points, earning a class incentive or reward.
Setup:
- Decide on the starting score, for example, 100 points.
- Set a target score, usually 1,000,000 points.
- Provide each student with a whiteboard and marker.
- Prepare a set of problems that gradually increase in difficulty.
Group Game Instructions:
- Start the Game:
- Present the first problem to the class.
- All students solve the problem individually on their whiteboards.
- Show Answers Together:
- On the teacher’s cue, all students raise their boards simultaneously.
- Count the correct answers.
- Scoring:
- If all but 5 students (or roughly the number who usually miss problems) get the problem correct, the class doubles its points.
- If more than 5 students get it wrong, the score stays the same.
- Go Big or Go Home Decision:
- After a successful round, the class can choose to “Go Big” and attempt another problem to double their score again.
- Or they can “Go Home” and keep their current score.
- Increasing Difficulty:
- With each “Go Big” choice, the next problem becomes slightly more challenging, keeping the tension and excitement high.
- Winning the Game:
- Continue playing until the class either reaches 1,000,000 points or fails to double their points.
- Upon reaching the goal, the class earns an agreed-upon incentive (treats, homework pass, etc.).
Individual Play Variation:
- Preparation:
- Write problems on separate slips of paper and place them in a bowl.
- Rules:
- Draw one problem at a time and solve it.
- You may only get 3 problems wrong before starting over.
- Correct answers double your points until you reach your target score.
Tips for Success:
- Encourage students to collaborate quietly and check each other’s work to ensure the team succeeds.
- Track the score visually on the board to build excitement.
- Increase the challenge gradually to keep engagement high.
This game promotes teamwork, accuracy, and focus while turning problem-solving into a high-stakes, fun classroom activity.


Leave a Reply