Math Game: Cram

Cram is another simple strategy game that requires only pencil and paper. Unlike Heaps or The Game of 100, Cram also needs a grid, so grab that graph paper. 4×4 or 6×6 grids are great starting points, but students can eventually try larger or even irregular boards.

• Two players compete, placing 2×1 rectangles onto the board.
• The last player to successfully place a piece wins.

Here is a sample Cram game played on a 4×4 grid. Red loses since they cannot make a move.

As always, the purpose of these games is to get my students thinking!. I want them to unpack the strategy, not just play the games. Ask students to analyze a finished game and look for any big mistakes. Can they develop a strategy to guarantee wins?

For example, I think Red’s critical error happened on this move. What’s the problem? Where should Red have moved instead?

Enjoy and do check out the entire category of paper and pencil strategy games at Byrdseed.TV!