Dice in the Classroom

There are so many effective math games and data investigations that involve tossing dice.  One way to help young students toss dice is to place the dice in a clear jar.  Students simply shake the jar, place it down on its lid, and read the dice toss.  Teachers may place 1-4 dice in the jar and they're ready to go.  HINT:  This also works for coin tosses!

Some teachers prefer to use the small trays in which vegetables and fruits are sometimes packed or small boxes or box lids.  The sides stop the dice from rolling off the student desk.  If noise is a concern in the classroom, place a sheet of craft foam in the bottom of the tray and the dice tosses will be silent.

Now check out some activities from the Mathwire collections:

• Data Analysis:  One Die Toss
• Data Analysis:  Two Dice Toss