New Math Game: "Oh No! 99!"

Today we played a new Math game called "Oh No! 99!" in which students tried to push their opponents over 99 by adding and subtracting playing cards. Here's the rules of the game so that you can play it at home:

Aces = add 1
Jacks = subtract 10
Kings = zero
Queens = wild (add any number 0-10)
all other cards = add the number on the card

Each player is dealt 4 cards and the remaining cards are placed in the middle of the table. Players takes turns laying down cards, adding or subtracting the value of the cards until someone goes over 99. Every time a player plays down a card they must draw a new card from the pile (you must have 4 cards in your hand at all times).

*BONUS: players can add Jokers to the deck and choose their own rule for when the card is drawn. For example, students may choose to make Jokers multiple the last card on the pile by 5, 2, etc.

This activity helps students build quick mental calculation skills and practice break numbers down into several pieces for quick calculations. Practice at home with a couple quick games each night!