Concentration - Algebra Style

Materials

Game board and cover squares
scissors

In this game of Concentration, you will match algebraic expressions with equivalent expressions in a simplified form. To make your game board, follow these steps:

Step 1	Copy and cut out the game board on page 2.
Step 2	Copy and cut out each of the squares numbered from 1 to 24on page 2
Step 3	Starting at the top left-hand corner, cover each square on the game board in sequence with one of the numbered squares you cut out.

Twelve of the squares on the game board contain algebraic expressions involving addition and/or subtraction. The other 12 squares contain the results in simplified form. The object of the game is to match each algebraic expression with its simplified form.

You can play the game alone or with a partner. Randomly pick on square, and remove the numbered square covering it. Then randomly pick a second square, and remove the numbered square. If the expressions match, you win one point and go again. If they do not match, recover the squares. Then the next player tries to make a match.

Use one of the score cards on page 3 to keep score. When a match is made and a point is scored, write the expression and its equivalent on the score card. When all the squares are uncovered, the player with the most points is the winner.

1.	Play the game with a partner. As you play, try to understand the relationship between the expressions and their sum or difference in simplified form.
2.	Cut out the blank game board on page 4. Make up your own game board containing 12 algebraic expressions and their simplified form. Play the game with a partner, and keep score.

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