This is a level 3 number activity from the Figure It Out series. It relates to Stage 6 of the Number Framework.
A PDF of the student activity is available.
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order whole numbers upto 6 digits
2 sets of 0-9 digit cards (see Related Resources)
15 counters
A dice
FIO, Level 3, Number, Book 2, Playing for Points, page 4
2 classmates
By ordering the high scores in this activity, the students will show and develop their knowledge of whole-number sequences and place value. The numbers on the Zone Ball high score table have been carefully chosen to ensure that the students show a robust understanding of the increasing value of digits as they are placed to the left-hand part of the numeral. The students who understand this structure will look for the largest digit on the left in the whole number that has the most digits. If this does not define the order, they then check the second-to-left digit for size, and so on.
Ask some of the students to explain how they decide on the order of the numbers. The students could produce a flow chart of the decision-making process needed to decide the largest number.
Game
Insist that all 3 players agree who should win each counter before it is taken. After the students have used the bonus point idea a few times, have them discuss the best strategy for winning this extra point. For example, should they always remove the card with the largest digit? How can they best use a 0?
Answers to Activity
1. Jessica 636 194
Hemi 635 293
Shaun 627 194
Tuvalu 591 999
Adam 521 371
Kelsi 521 299
2. Jessica 636 194
Jamal 636 190
Hemi 635 293
Shaun 627 194
Kent 610 102
Tuvalu 591 999
Game
A game for ordering numbers