Nim-Wits

[15 Minutes]

Try this version of the ancient Chinese game “Nim.” We’ll try a version where you draw circles, but feel free to use coins or small pieces of fruit (grapes?), if you want a more “hands-on“ version. This is a game that involves mathematical strategy-but start out by simply having fun with a friend!

You'll need:

• a pad of paper • pencil or pen • two different colored crayons or markers • one die • your thinking caps!

What to do:

1. If possible, print out these directions. Read them through before you begin.
2. Gather everything you need.
3. Create a triangular drawing made of circles, starting with five on the bottom row, four on the next, three, two, and then one on top.

How to play:

1. Roll the die to see who goes first, highest number wins.
2. Player #1 takes a colored marker and colors any number of circles that lie in any straight line, understanding that the colored circles do not have to touch each other.
3. Player #2 does the same.
4. Keep taking turns until a player colors in the last circle; that player is the winner.
5. You may wish to try the game a second time, but increase the number of circles on the bottom row by one.
6. Play the game again, but the last player to color in a circle is the loser.
7. Use small fruit or pennies; the winner gets to keep the fruit for a treat or, if coins are used, the player with the most pennies, after a few rounds, is the winner.

Useful information:

This game sounded simple, but when you start to play you will really challenge your math thinking skills. My dad and I play this game when we are looking to exercise our minds. (Tom, age 13)