MAKE IT TO 1

MAKE IT TO 1 is a Grade 1 counting and subtraction game that begins with 50 counters. On each turn, students roll a die and remove that many counters from their pile, trying to finish with exactly one counter left. Near the end of the game, a roll that would take the pile below one cannot be used, so students must pay attention to how many counters remain.

Use it in a small group when students are practicing counting backward and subtracting small amounts from a larger quantity. The exact-one finish also creates natural opportunities to ask what roll a player needs next. Create a free Find a Math Game account to generate teacher-ready lesson support for MAKE IT TO 1. No credit card, with 3 lifetime lesson generations.