Every kid knows that bigger is better and more impressive! You can tap into this intrinsic motivational key by creating a Giant Gameboard to use when your children need to review or study basic facts before a test. And who knows? Once your children get a taste of this activity, they may just find their own ways to use it.
You'll need lots of space for this game! First, make at least twenty large game squares. I used colored posterboard pieces that are large enough to stand on, and I laminated them so they would last through many uses. Some of the squares have game instructions on them, such as "Move ahead one space" or "Go back to start." Be sure to make a "START" and "FINISH" space. You'll want masking tape, a list of review questions, and some giant, economy-sized dice. You can make your own by marking dots on foam cubes (available at the local craft store) or try cutting and folding an origami cube. You won't need any pawns because the players stand on the gameboard and move around in turn.
Set up the game board by laying the pieces end to end around the room. You can put twists and turns into the path and even create shortcuts! Put a few pieces of masking tape under each piece of your gameboard so that players have less risk of slipping when they step on the squares.
When you're ready to play, have the first player answer one of your review questions. A correct answer will allow him or her to roll the giant dice and move that many spaces down the board. Repeat the procedure for each player in turn, and keep playing until someone reaches the finish line.
Sandy Fleming is an educational consultant and tutor living in Michigan. Get more fun ideas for teaching by subscribing to her weekly newsletter, The Learning Nook News!
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