Developing Number Sense: Let's Play a Game

I totally agree with the NCTM on this one and I do believe that with time and attention all students can gain solid mathematical understanding. But I will say that it is a challenge to provide the time that some students need. Our third grade math curriculum is jam packed and if we are to get students prepared for the state tests we need to keep a fast pace. Unfortunately, some students enter third grade with limited number sense.  I recognize how important a firm understanding of the number system is if they are to understand more than just a procedure to follow to get a right answer. 

Here is where I rely on guided math and math stations.  Here is a fun but effective number chart game to give students more exposure to patterns and number relationships.  It was one of my students' favorites last year.  Teach it in the fall and keep it in the rotation for the year.  I promise kids will want to play it and will stay engaged while you meet with small math groups.   When I introduced it I used cheerios to represent the flying saucers and they got to munch and play if they were being productive but after the initial teaching, we used small circle markers.

Would you like to give it a try with your kids?  It's free on  TeachersPayTeachers Come grab it here!

http://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Math-Blast-Off-Developing-Number-Sense-with-the-Hundreds-Chart

I know, I know, some of you are asking what's up with all the math posts! Actually math is on my brain since a friend and I are doing some math work on the side and it would help if some of you would/could review this game for me in a comment or email. I'd love to know what grade you teach and if you think this would be something that might help your students. Thanks a bunch!  I promise language arts stuff is in the works too!