Target Number

     This game uses the four basic rules of arithmetic:  addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.  The students must choose six numbers (by calling out the letter of the square they want) on the board.  The top row (blue squares) of the board (letters A-D) consists of the numbers 25, 50, 75, and 100 (not necessarily in that order).  The rest of the 20 letters (red squares E-X) consist of the numbers 1-10 with each number being on the board twice.  The object of the game is to use the six numbers selected to try and get as close or right on the target number.  The target number is set by a random generator.  

Gameplay:  To start the game, one player from the class must choose six letters from the board.  A good strategy is to select at least one of the larger numbers by picking one from the letters A-D.  Once the six numbers have been selected, the teacher clicks the Target Number link at the top of the slide and you will be directed to a random generator page.  Click Start and then Stop to select a Target Number.  To reach the target number, the players can use any or all the six numbers selected but may not use any number more than once.  Using any combination of addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division, players try to come as close as possible to the target number.  It doesn’t matter if you go over the target number, the person closest to the target number wins the game.  A player who completes the problem first can raise their hand and then must demonstrate how they worked out the problem.

Example:  Numbers given:  8, 4, 4, 6, 8, 9

Target number:  594

You might work the problem like this:

8 + 8 = 16

16 × 4 = 64

6 − 4 = 2

64 + 2 = 66

66 × 9 = 594

Or like this example:

8 × 8 = 64

64 − 4 = 60

60 + 6 = 66

66 × 9 = 594

     To open the activity, click the Target Number picture below.  The presentation will open as a PowerPoint.  Make a copy of the presentation by 1) clicking File, 2) selecting Create a Copy, and 3) Download from the dropdown menu.  If you do not make a copy for yourself, the presentation will not work correctly.