MATH JENGA

Whitney Smith
Geometry and Measurement- 5th Grade
TEKS Addressed:
(5) Geometry and measurement. The student applies mathematical process standards to
classify two-dimensional figures by attributes and properties. The student is expected to classify
two-dimensional figures in a hierarchy of sets and subsets using graphic organizers based on
their attributes and properties.
(6) Geometry and measurement. The student applies mathematical process standards to
understand, recognize, and quantify volume. The student is expected to:
(A) recognize a cube with side length of one unit as a unit cube having one cubic unit of volume
and the volume of a three-dimensional figure as the number of unit cubes (n cubic units) needed
to fill it with no gaps or overlaps if possible; and
(B) determine the volume of a rectangular prism with whole number side lengths in problems
related to the number of layers times the number of unit cubes in the area of the base.
(7) Geometry and measurement. The student applies mathematical process standards to select
appropriate units, strategies, and tools to solve problems involving measurement. The student is
expected to solve problems by calculating conversions within a measurement system,
customary or metric.
Game Description and Rules:
Students will take a block that will be numbered from 1-54, from any level of the Jenga
tower. When the student pulls the block they must then solve the problem presented on the
Jenga Board correctly before placing it on top of the tower. The students can only use one hand
at a time when taking blocks from the tower or placing them on top of the tower. There will also
be free spaces that will be scattered throughout the Jenga Board so students get a free turn.
When the tower falls over the game is over, and you can build it back up and start over. During
the game the teacher needs to have a list of the students names up on the board so he/she can
keep up with what student pulled which numbered block because, no student can pull the same
block twice. This gives the students a chance to answer a variety of questions that are on the
Jenga Board.
Suggested Extensions:
This game could be played through a variety of grade levels, could be made easier with
easier questions or harder with harder questions.
Development of Math Jenga:
I choose this game personally because jenga is a fun game for all ages to play. To put a
fun math spin on it I choose to pick problems that are TEKS based for reviewing at the end of a
Geometry and Measurement lesson. This gets the students to be hands on and social but, also
has them solving math problems in the process by playing Math Jenga!
Answer Key: