Shut the Box is a wonderfully straightforward game with a wealth of hidden mathematical potential. It encourages mathematical thinking and discussion, which is something we should strive to integrate into every maths lesson.
This download contains:
- Shut the box resource
- Subitising snap resource (read instructions here)
How to play Shut the Box
To get started, you’ll need a game board with numbered flaps from 1 to 9 (download one from the top of this page).
If you have a physical version of the game, it often includes a wooden board and dice, but a homemade version works just as well.
Start the game with all the flaps open. The objective is to roll the dice and “shut the box” by closing all the numbered flaps.
Begin with simple rules. If a player rolls a two and a four, they close the flaps numbered 2 and 4. Once they are comfortable, introduce the idea of using the sum of the dice.
For instance, if they roll a two and a four, they can close the flap numbered 6 (because 2 + 4 = 6). Alternatively, for a single roll of eight, they can close any combination of flaps that adds up to eight, such as 1 + 2 + 5 or 3 + 5.
Why use Shut the Box in maths lessons?
Shut the Box offers excellent opportunities for mathematical discussion. As pupils play, they engage in conversations about numbers, addition strategies and reasoning.
These discussions help teachers understand each child’s mathematical thinking, including their ability to subitise, calculate mentally and explore different number combinations.
Adapting for different ages and abilities
The Shut the Box game is highly versatile. Younger children in KS1 can use it to build number recognition and basic addition skills.
Older pupils in KS2 can use it to explore more complex strategies. For example, you can add an extra challenge by using three dice or incorporating subtraction into the rules.
Other variations and benefits
The Shut the Box game can also be a valuable tool in intervention groups, providing a fun and engaging way to build confidence in maths.
It’s a game of strategy as well as luck, so players must think carefully about which flaps to close to maximise their chances of winning.
Additionally, the game is quick to play, making it ideal as a warm-up or filler activity in a lesson.
Overall, Shut the Box is a simple game with deep mathematical benefits, helping pupils develop critical thinking, mental maths skills and a love for numbers.
Shannen Doherty is a Y2 teacher, senior leader and author of 100 Ideas for Primary Teachers: Maths (£14.99, Bloomsbury). Follow her on Twitter at @misssdoherty. Browse more KS1 maths games and KS2 maths games. Download our pack of Year 1 maths worksheets.
