Place value can be tricky in first grade. I feel like they go from learning to count to 20 to fully understanding base 10 in a matter of weeks. It flies and can be a difficult concept for my students to understand. When teaching place value I am ALL ABOUT it being hands on. Students feel the blocks, exchange for tens, and see just how big these numbers are and what these 2 and 3 digit numbers actually mean.

I have a post about my hands on place value activities here if you want to read that!

During our place value and number sense units, we also get very familiar with a 120 chart. I wanted to share a simple game you can play with your students to help them gain a better understanding of number sense! It’s called “Arrow Paths.” The concept is a simple one, so check out the video below to see the different ways I play this in the classroom:

Be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel above and click the bell to be notified of all my new teaching videos!

When I shared this before, many had asked where I got that 120 chart. I linked it below in case you were interested. Just FYI: the link below is an Amazon affiliate link meaning if you purchase through the link, I receive a small amount back.

Looking for more standards-based math games that will engage your learners and save you lots of time?!

Join hundreds of primary teachers over in the SJT Math Club:

Pin to remember: