ERIC Number: EJ765711
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2007-Jan
Pages: 5
Abstractor: ERIC
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1072-0839
EISSN: N/A
Engaging Contexts for the Game of Nim
Reeves, Charles A.; Gleichowski, Rosemarie Reeves
Mathematics Teaching in the Middle School, v12 n5 p251-255 Jan 2007
Middle school teachers realize the value of students playing games in mathematics classes if those games emphasize problem-solving strategies, algebraic reasoning, or spatial sense. This article describes various versions of the traditional game of nim and shows how working backward can be used to find a winning strategy. The link is then made between working backward and solving equations. This particular strategy becomes increasingly valuable as students approach their first algebra course. (Contains 6 figures and a bibliography.)
Descriptors: Algebra, Educational Games, Teaching Methods, Mathematics Instruction, Middle School Students, Secondary School Mathematics, Equations (Mathematics), Problem Solving, Mathematical Logic, Thinking Skills, Spatial Ability
National Council of Teachers of Mathematics. 1906 Association Drive, Reston, VA 20191-1502. Tel: 800-235-7566; Tel: 703-620-3702; Fax: 703-476-2970; e-mail: orders@nctm.org; Web site: http://www.nctm.org/publications/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Descriptive
Education Level: Middle Schools
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A