Dice target games

Quick answer

You can play dice target games by rolling dice and using the numbers to make a target number using addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.

Learning outcome

By the end of this page, you will be able to roll dice and combine the numbers to make a target number using addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division.

• You can add, subtract, multiply, or divide the dice numbers to match the target.
• You can play with different numbers of dice and different targets.
• You can work out which operations to use to reach the target.
• You can play with a friend or by yourself to practice your maths skills.

Why this matters

Dice target games help you get better at maths in a fun way. They help you think about how numbers work together. This kind of play helps you with everyday tasks like sharing snacks, counting money, or working out how long a trip will take. It also builds your confidence in maths and helps you think quickly.

How it works

First, you roll some dice. Then, you look at the numbers that come up. Next, you use maths to make those numbers match your target number. You can add, subtract, multiply, or divide the dice numbers. You can even use more than one dice at a time.

1. Roll the dice
2. Look at the numbers
3. Choose an operation (add, subtract, multiply, or divide)
4. Try to make the target number
5. Check if you did it right

Examples you can see

Let's say you roll two dice and get 3 and 5. Your target number is 8. You can add 3 + 5 = 8. That's easy!

What if your target is 15 and you roll 3 and 6? You can multiply 3 × 6 = 18. That's too much. Try 6 × 3 = 18. Still too much. Try 6 + 3 = 9. That's too little. You need to use both numbers and think harder.

Let's try with 4 and 2, and the target is 6. You can add 4 + 2 = 6. Or you can subtract 4 - 2 = 2. Or multiply 4 × 2 = 8. Or divide 4 ÷ 2 = 2. Only addition works here.

Try rolling 6 and 3, and your target is 18. You can multiply 6 × 3 = 18. That works!

Try it as a mini adventure

Imagine you are a treasure hunter. You find a map with a riddle: “To find the treasure, roll two dice and make the number 12.” You roll the dice and get 5 and 7. How do you make 12? You add 5 + 7 = 12. Great job! You found the treasure!

Now, you find another riddle: “Roll two dice. Make the number 20.” You roll 4 and 5. What do you do? 4 × 5 = 20. That’s right!

Now, you find a riddle: “Roll three dice. Make the number 10.” You roll 2, 3, and 4. What can you do? 2 + 3 + 4 = 9. That’s close! Try 2 × 3 + 4 = 10. That works!

Common mistakes

• Mistake: Thinking that 6 ÷ 2 = 3, but then trying to use 3 in a way that doesn't work.
  Why it happens: Confusing the answer with how to use it.
  Fix: Remember that 6 ÷ 2 = 3, so you can use 3 in your next step.
• Mistake: Adding numbers to make a target that's too big.
  Why it happens: Not thinking about how to use operations like subtraction or division.
  Fix: Try subtracting or dividing if your numbers are too big.
• Mistake: Not checking your work.
  Why it happens: Wanting to get to the next step quickly.
  Fix: Always double-check that your answer matches the target.
• Mistake: Using the wrong dice numbers.
  Why it happens: Getting distracted or not reading the dice properly.
  Fix: Read each number carefully before using it.

Parent and carer guide

Playing dice target games is a fun way to practice maths. It helps children get better at using numbers in different ways. You can play with your child by rolling dice and asking them to make a number. Start simple with two dice and easy targets. As they get better, try more dice or harder targets.

Try these tips:

• Play together and make it a game
• Use different dice for different levels
• Encourage them to explain how they solved it
• Let them try different operations
• Give praise for trying and solving

Don’t worry if they get it wrong. Mistakes are part of learning. You can ask questions like, “What did you try?” or “How did you think about it?” This helps them learn better.

Practice questions

1. You roll two dice and get 3 and 4. Make the number 12. What do you do? Answer: Multiply 3 × 4 = 12
2. You roll 5 and 6. Make the number 11. What do you do? Answer: Add 5 + 6 = 11
3. You roll 2 and 8. Make the number 16. What do you do? Answer: Multiply 2 × 8 = 16
4. You roll 10 and 2. Make the number 5. What do you do? Answer: Divide 10 ÷ 2 = 5
5. You roll 3, 4, and 5. Make the number 12. What do you do? Answer: Add 3 + 4 + 5 = 12

FAQ

What dice do I need for dice target games?

You can use any regular dice. Two or three dice work well for beginners. As you get better, you can use more dice or even special dice with different numbers.

Can I use dice to practice multiplication?

Yes! Dice target games are a great way to practice multiplication. You can roll two dice and multiply the numbers to reach a target.

How can I make dice target games harder?

You can use more dice, use bigger numbers, or set more difficult targets. You can also try using all four operations (add, subtract, multiply, divide) in one go.

Are dice target games good for learning?

Yes! They help children practice basic maths, think quickly, and understand how numbers work together. They also make maths fun!

Can I play dice target games alone?

Yes! You can roll dice and challenge yourself to make a number. You can even time yourself to make it more fun.