
PEMDAS Adventure Game: A Math Board Game Project
Inquiry Framework
Question Framework
Driving Question
The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we design a fun and engaging board game that teaches players to solve multi-step math problems using PEMDAS in order to apply this skill to real-world scenarios?Essential Questions
Supporting questions that break down major concepts.- How does the order of operations (PEMDAS) ensure consistent results in math?
- In what real-life scenarios is it important to follow a specific order of steps to achieve the desired outcome?
- How can a game be designed to effectively reinforce the rules of PEMDAS?
- What strategies can be used to solve multi-step math problems efficiently and accurately?
Standards & Learning Goals
Learning Goals
By the end of this project, students will be able to:- Students will be able to apply the order of operations (PEMDAS) to solve multi-step math problems.
- Students will be able to design a board game that reinforces the rules of PEMDAS.
- Students will be able to explain how PEMDAS ensures consistent results in mathematics.
- Students will be able to identify real-life scenarios where following a specific order of steps is crucial.
- Students will be able to evaluate the effectiveness of their game in teaching PEMDAS to others and iterate based on feedback.
- Students will be able to use game design principles to create a fun and engaging learning experience.
- Students will be able to develop efficient and accurate strategies for solving multi-step math problems.
- Students will be able to collaborate effectively with peers to develop and refine their board game design.
- Students will be able to communicate mathematical ideas and game design concepts clearly through written and oral presentations.
- Students will be able to reflect on their learning process and identify areas for improvement in their understanding of PEMDAS and game design principles.
- Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of PEMDAS by solving problems correctly within the game context.
- Students will be able to create game mechanics that accurately reflect the rules of PEMDAS.
- Students will be able to construct math problems of varying difficulty levels that require the application of PEMDAS.
- Students will be able to test and refine their game based on playtesting feedback.
- Students will be able to present their game to an audience and explain the mathematical concepts it teaches.
- Students will be able to analyze and critique other students' games, providing constructive feedback.
- Students will be able to connect the application of PEMDAS to real-world problem-solving scenarios.
- Students will be able to understand the importance of precision and accuracy in mathematical calculations.
- Students will be able to develop problem-solving skills through game design and mathematical challenges.
- Students will be able to work collaboratively to design, develop, and present their board game.
- Students will be able to plan the game's narrative, rules, and components in alignment with the PEMDAS concept.
- Students will be able to implement PEMDAS rules accurately within the game mechanics.
- Students will be able to create a scoring system that reflects the correct application of PEMDAS rules.
- Students will be able to justify the design choices made during the creation of their game.
- Students will be able to engage in peer review to improve the quality of their game design and PEMDAS content.
- Students will be able to self-assess their game to reflect on its strengths and areas for improvement.
- Students will be able to present their game and explain the math and design considerations involved.
- Students will be able to use mathematical language to describe and explain the application of PEMDAS.
- Students will be able to collaborate and communicate effectively within a group setting.
- Students will be able to demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills through game design.
- Students will be able to engage in peer assessment to provide feedback and improve the design of their game.
- Students will be able to reflect on their learning and evaluate their understanding of PEMDAS and game design principles.
- Students will be able to identify and analyze real-world applications of PEMDAS and order of operations.
- Students will be able to synthesize knowledge of mathematics and game design to create a unique learning experience.
- Students will be able to design a visually appealing and engaging game board and related materials.
- Students will be able to troubleshoot challenges during the design and development process.
- Students will be able to use appropriate tools and resources to support the development of their game.
- Students will be able to explain their design choices and the rationale behind their game mechanics.
- Students will be able to apply PEMDAS to solve complex mathematical problems.
- Students will be able to design a game that effectively teaches and reinforces the rules of PEMDAS.
- Students will be able to communicate mathematical concepts and game design principles clearly and effectively.
- Students will be able to collaborate effectively with peers to create a high-quality learning experience.
- Students will be able to reflect on their learning and identify areas for improvement.
- Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of PEMDAS by solving problems correctly within the game context.
- Students will be able to design game mechanics that accurately reflect the rules of PEMDAS.
- Students will be able to develop and refine their game based on playtesting and feedback.
- Students will be able to present their game to an audience and explain the mathematical concepts it teaches.
- Students will be able to apply PEMDAS to solve complex mathematical problems presented in game form.
- Students will be able to design a game that effectively teaches and reinforces the rules of PEMDAS in a fun and engaging way.
- Students will be able to demonstrate creativity and innovation in their game design.
- Students will be able to manage their time and resources effectively to complete the project within the given timeframe.
- Students will be able to present their game to an audience and explain the mathematical concepts it teaches, as well as the design decisions behind the game mechanics.
- Students will be able to analyze and critique other students' games, providing constructive feedback that is both helpful and encouraging.
- Students will be able to reflect on their learning and identify areas for improvement in their understanding of PEMDAS and game design principles, and they will be able to articulate these insights in a clear and meaningful way.
- Students will be able to design a game that effectively teaches and reinforces the rules of PEMDAS in a fun and engaging way, incorporating elements of storytelling, character development, and thematic design.
- Students will be able to manage their time and resources effectively to complete the project within the given timeframe, adhering to a project plan and adapting to unexpected challenges or obstacles.
- Students will be able to present their game to an audience and explain the mathematical concepts it teaches, as well as the design decisions behind the game mechanics, clearly and persuasively.
- Students will be able to analyze and critique other students' games, providing constructive feedback that is both helpful and encouraging, while also demonstrating an understanding of the game design principles and mathematical concepts involved.
- Students will be able to reflect on their learning and identify areas for improvement in their understanding of PEMDAS and game design principles, and they will be able to articulate these insights in a clear and meaningful way, using evidence from their own work and the feedback they received.
- Students will be able to apply PEMDAS to solve multi-step mathematical problems in the context of a board game.
- Students will be able to design an engaging board game that effectively teaches and reinforces the rules of PEMDAS.
- Students will be able to communicate mathematical concepts and game design principles clearly and effectively to an audience.
- Students will be able to collaborate effectively with peers to develop and refine their board game.
- Students will be able to reflect on their learning and identify areas for improvement in their understanding of PEMDAS and game design.
- Students will be able to create a visually appealing and user-friendly board game.
- Students will be able to write clear and concise game rules.
- Students will be able to test and refine their game based on feedback from others.
- Students will be able to present their game to an audience and explain the mathematical concepts and design choices.
- Students will be able to analyze and critique other students' games, providing constructive feedback.
- Students will be able to connect the application of PEMDAS to real-world scenarios.
- Students will be able to develop problem-solving skills through game design and mathematical challenges.
- Students will be able to apply the order of operations (PEMDAS) to solve mathematical expressions.
- Students will be able to design a game that requires players to use PEMDAS to advance.
- Students will be able to explain the importance of following the correct order of operations.
- Students will be able to work collaboratively to create a fun and engaging game.
- Students will be able to test their game and make improvements based on feedback.
- Students will be able to present their game to the class and explain how it teaches PEMDAS.
- Students will be able to follow a design process to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing board game.
- Students will be able to use mathematical language to describe the game and its rules.
- Students will be able to self-assess their game and identify areas for improvement.
- Students will be able to create a game that aligns with the principles of PEMDAS.
- Students will be able to explain the math behind the game.
- Students will be able to refine their game based on testing and feedback.
- Students will be able to communicate effectively about their game.
- Students will be able to work together to make a great game.
- Students will apply PEMDAS to create a game.
- Students will design the game.
- Students will explain PEMDAS through the game.
- Students will improve the game based on feedback.
- Students will learn PEMDAS by creating a game.
- Students will demonstrate their understanding of PEMDAS by designing a board game.
- Students will apply problem-solving skills to create an engaging and educational game.
- Students will collaborate with peers to develop a fun and interactive learning experience.
- Students will improve their understanding of math concepts.
- Students will use math to solve a game.
- Students will use the game to show PEMDAS.
- Students will make the game better by fixing it.
- Students will understand PEMDAS through the game.
- Students will know what PEMDAS is.
- Students will know PEMDAS.
- Students will develop a PEMDAS game.
- Students will collaborate.
- Students will improve their game.
- Students will present.
- Understand and apply the order of operations (PEMDAS/BODMAS).
- Design a game that incorporates mathematical principles.
- Collaborate with peers to create a shared project.
- Develop problem-solving skills through game design.
- Communicate mathematical ideas effectively.
- Students will understand the purpose of PEMDAS.
- Students will be able to create a math game.
Common Core Standards
Entry Events
Events that will be used to introduce the project to studentsThe Mysterious Math Message
A famous mathematicianThe Broken Game
The class receives a letter from a game developerPortfolio Activities
Portfolio Activities
These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.PEMDAS Prep Rally
Students review and practice the order of operations (PEMDAS) through worksheets and small group problem-solving, reinforcing the foundational skills needed for game design.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityCompleted PEMDAS practice worksheets and a summary of key PEMDAS rules and examples.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.Math.Content.5.OA.A.1 (Apply the order of operations) - Focuses on understanding and applying PEMDAS rules.Problem-Crafting Workshop
Students brainstorm and write a variety of multi-step math problems suitable for a 5th-grade level, focusing on different difficulty levels and real-world contexts.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA collection of diverse PEMDAS problems, categorized by difficulty and context.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.Math.Content.5.OA.A.2 (Write simple expressions) - Focuses on writing mathematical problems for the game.Game Blueprint Bonanza
Students design the basic layout and mechanics of their board game, including the game board, player pieces, and action cards, ensuring that the game requires players to apply PEMDAS to advance.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA detailed game design document, including a sketch of the game board, rules of play, and examples of PEMDAS challenge cards.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.Math.Practice.MP4 (Model with mathematics) - Focuses on modeling mathematical concepts through game design.Prototype Power-Up
Students create a prototype of their board game, using materials such as cardboard, markers, and dice. They test the game for playability and accuracy of PEMDAS problems.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA playable prototype of the PEMDAS board game, ready for testing and refinement.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.Math.Practice.MP5 (Use appropriate tools strategically) - Focuses on using tools in their game design.Feedback Frenzy
Students playtest each other's games and provide feedback on the game's mechanics, clarity of rules, and effectiveness in teaching PEMDAS.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityWritten feedback on at least two other groups' games, focusing on both the game design and the mathematical accuracy of the PEMDAS problems.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.Math.Practice.MP6 (Attend to precision) - Accurate application of PEMDAS is crucial for the game to function correctly.Revise and Remix
Based on the feedback received, students revise their game design, rules, and PEMDAS problems to improve the game's overall quality and effectiveness.Steps
Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.Final Product
What students will submit as the final product of the activityA final version of the PEMDAS board game, incorporating feedback from playtesting and peer review.Alignment
How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsCCSS.Math.Practice.MP7 (Look for and make use of structure) - Students will be looking for the structure within the order of operations.Rubric & Reflection
Portfolio Rubric
Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolioPEMDAS Game Design Rubric
PEMDAS Proficiency
Focuses on the accuracy and understanding of PEMDAS rules through practice problems and summaries.PEMDAS Application
Accuracy and application of PEMDAS rules in solving practice problems.
Exemplary
4 PointsConsistently and accurately applies PEMDAS rules to solve complex problems, demonstrating a deep understanding of the order of operations.
Proficient
3 PointsAccurately applies PEMDAS rules to solve most problems, demonstrating a good understanding of the order of operations.
Developing
2 PointsApplies PEMDAS rules inconsistently, with some errors in the order of operations.
Beginning
1 PointsStruggles to apply PEMDAS rules, with frequent errors and a lack of understanding of the order of operations.
PEMDAS Summary
Clarity and correctness of the summary of PEMDAS rules and examples.
Exemplary
4 PointsProvides a comprehensive and clear summary of PEMDAS rules, with well-explained and accurate examples for each operation.
Proficient
3 PointsProvides a clear summary of PEMDAS rules, with accurate examples for most operations.
Developing
2 PointsProvides a basic summary of PEMDAS rules, but some examples may be unclear or inaccurate.
Beginning
1 PointsProvides an incomplete or unclear summary of PEMDAS rules, with few or inaccurate examples.
Problem Creation
Focuses on the ability to create diverse and relevant PEMDAS problems from real-world contexts.Scenario Relevance
Relevance and creativity of the real-world scenarios presented.
Exemplary
4 PointsPresents highly relevant and creative real-world scenarios that effectively demonstrate the application of multi-step math problems.
Proficient
3 PointsPresents relevant real-world scenarios that demonstrate the application of multi-step math problems.
Developing
2 PointsPresents somewhat relevant real-world scenarios, but the connection to multi-step math problems may not be clear.
Beginning
1 PointsPresents irrelevant or unclear real-world scenarios, with little connection to multi-step math problems.
Problem Variety
Variety and complexity of PEMDAS problems written.
Exemplary
4 PointsWrites a diverse range of complex PEMDAS problems, effectively varying the difficulty level and type of operations used.
Proficient
3 PointsWrites a variety of PEMDAS problems, varying the difficulty level and type of operations used.
Developing
2 PointsWrites some PEMDAS problems, but the variety and complexity are limited.
Beginning
1 PointsWrites few or simple PEMDAS problems, with little variety or complexity.
Problem Organization
Organization and categorization of problems by difficulty and type.
Exemplary
4 PointsCategorizes problems meticulously by difficulty level and type, making it easy to differentiate and select appropriate problems.
Proficient
3 PointsCategorizes problems effectively by difficulty level and type.
Developing
2 PointsAttempts to categorize problems, but the organization may be inconsistent or unclear.
Beginning
1 PointsDoes not categorize problems, or the categorization is disorganized and unhelpful.
Game Design
Focuses on the design of the game, ensuring it effectively integrates PEMDAS into gameplay.Board Design
Clarity and detail of the game board layout.
Exemplary
4 PointsSketches a highly detailed and clear game board layout, including well-defined starting and ending points, and engaging spaces for PEMDAS challenges.
Proficient
3 PointsSketches a detailed and clear game board layout, including starting and ending points, and spaces for PEMDAS challenges.
Developing
2 PointsSketches a basic game board layout, but some details may be unclear or missing.
Beginning
1 PointsSketches a vague or incomplete game board layout, lacking essential details.
Rule Effectiveness
Effectiveness of game rules in requiring PEMDAS application.
Exemplary
4 PointsDevelops highly effective and engaging game rules that seamlessly require players to solve PEMDAS problems to advance, enhancing the learning experience.
Proficient
3 PointsDevelops effective game rules that require players to solve PEMDAS problems to advance.
Developing
2 PointsDevelops basic game rules that require players to solve PEMDAS problems, but the connection may be weak or inconsistent.
Beginning
1 PointsDevelops unclear or ineffective game rules that do not consistently require players to solve PEMDAS problems.
Action Card Design
Creativity and strategic value of action cards or events.
Exemplary
4 PointsDesigns highly creative and strategically valuable action cards or events that add an element of chance and enhance the game's engagement.
Proficient
3 PointsDesigns creative and strategically valuable action cards or events that add an element of chance to the game.
Developing
2 PointsDesigns basic action cards or events, but their creativity and strategic value are limited.
Beginning
1 PointsDesigns uninspired or ineffective action cards or events, with little impact on the game's engagement.
Game Prototype
Focuses on the creation of a functional and engaging game prototype.Prototype Completeness
Completeness and functionality of the game prototype.
Exemplary
4 PointsCreates a fully functional and polished game prototype that demonstrates exceptional attention to detail and playability.
Proficient
3 PointsCreates a complete and functional game prototype that is ready for testing and refinement.
Developing
2 PointsCreates a partially complete game prototype, but some elements may be missing or non-functional.
Beginning
1 PointsCreates an incomplete or non-functional game prototype, with significant elements missing or broken.
Problem Accuracy
Accuracy and solvability of PEMDAS problems within the game.
Exemplary
4 PointsEnsures that all PEMDAS problems within the game are accurate, solvable, and appropriately challenging for the target audience.
Proficient
3 PointsEnsures that most PEMDAS problems within the game are accurate and solvable.
Developing
2 PointsIncludes some PEMDAS problems that may be inaccurate or difficult to solve.
Beginning
1 PointsIncludes many PEMDAS problems that are inaccurate, unsolvable, or inappropriate for the target audience.
Game Engagement
Playability and engagement of the game.
Exemplary
4 PointsCreates a highly playable and engaging game that captures the interest of players and effectively reinforces PEMDAS concepts.
Proficient
3 PointsCreates a playable and engaging game that reinforces PEMDAS concepts.
Developing
2 PointsCreates a game that is somewhat playable, but may lack engagement or clear PEMDAS reinforcement.
Beginning
1 PointsCreates a game that is difficult to play or lacks engagement, failing to effectively reinforce PEMDAS concepts.
Peer Feedback
Focuses on the quality and constructiveness of feedback provided during playtesting.Feedback Quality
Thoroughness and insightfulness of feedback provided.
Exemplary
4 PointsProvides exceptionally thorough and insightful feedback on the game's design, rules, and PEMDAS problems, demonstrating a deep understanding of game design principles and mathematical concepts.
Proficient
3 PointsProvides thorough and insightful feedback on the game's design, rules, and PEMDAS problems.
Developing
2 PointsProvides basic feedback on the game's design, rules, and PEMDAS problems, but some areas may be overlooked.
Beginning
1 PointsProvides superficial or unhelpful feedback on the game, lacking depth and insight.
Improvement Suggestions
Clarity and constructiveness of suggestions for improvement.
Exemplary
4 PointsOffers exceptionally clear and constructive suggestions for improving the game's playability and educational value, demonstrating a strong understanding of game design and pedagogical principles.
Proficient
3 PointsOffers clear and constructive suggestions for improving the game's playability and educational value.
Developing
2 PointsOffers some suggestions for improvement, but they may be vague or lack constructiveness.
Beginning
1 PointsOffers few or unhelpful suggestions for improvement.
Playtesting Engagement
Engagement and respectfulness during playtesting.
Exemplary
4 PointsActively engages in playtesting, demonstrating respect for the game designer and providing thoughtful feedback in a respectful manner.
Proficient
3 PointsEngages in playtesting and provides respectful feedback.
Developing
2 PointsParticipates in playtesting, but may be disengaged or provide feedback that is not always respectful.
Beginning
1 PointsIs disengaged during playtesting or provides disrespectful feedback.
Game Revision
Focuses on the ability to revise and improve the game based on feedback.Feedback Integration
Incorporation of feedback into revisions.
Exemplary
4 PointsThoroughly incorporates feedback from playtesting and peer review, making significant improvements to the game's design, rules, and PEMDAS problems.
Proficient
3 PointsIncorporates most feedback from playtesting and peer review, improving the game's design, rules, and PEMDAS problems.
Developing
2 PointsIncorporates some feedback from playtesting and peer review, but some areas may be overlooked.
Beginning
1 PointsFails to incorporate feedback from playtesting and peer review, or makes minimal changes to the game.
Game Improvement
Overall improvement in game quality.
Exemplary
4 PointsDemonstrates a remarkable improvement in game quality, resulting in a highly polished and effective learning experience.
Proficient
3 PointsDemonstrates a noticeable improvement in game quality.
Developing
2 PointsShows some improvement in game quality, but further revisions may be needed.
Beginning
1 PointsShows little or no improvement in game quality.
Revised Game Effectiveness
Effectiveness of the revised game.
Exemplary
4 PointsCreates a highly effective and engaging revised game that effectively reinforces PEMDAS concepts and provides a fun learning experience.
Proficient
3 PointsCreates an effective and engaging revised game that reinforces PEMDAS concepts.
Developing
2 PointsCreates a revised game that is somewhat effective, but may lack engagement or clear PEMDAS reinforcement.
Beginning
1 PointsCreates a revised game that is ineffective or lacks engagement, failing to reinforce PEMDAS concepts.