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Series 1

Episode 1: The Ancient Game of Nim

The game of Nim has a long history and many variations.

It's a game that invites critical and creating thinking and rewards logical reasoning.

This is an early variation involving three piles...

 

During play...

  • What do you notice? What do you wonder? 
  • Keep a look out for patterns that occur in play. 
  • Observe the game as it plays out. What decisions do players make to help ensure a win?
  • Consider playing variables like:
    • Does it matter whether you are player 1 or player 2? Does player 1 or 2 help you win? Or is it irrelevant?
  •  Consider What if...? questions like:
    • What if... I play to make the piles even?
    • What if...I play to make the piles uneven? 
    • What if...I play the number of piles down to two? Will this help me win?

Maths Play acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we live, learn and work, and pay our respects to Elders past and present. Maths Play is dedicated to learning and operating in ways that acknowledge, respect, celebrate and learn from the original and beautiful cultures of these lands.