Early elementary lesson plan using calculators?

Question

I am looking for an intersting lesson plan for 1st or second grade using caluculators. (To share at a workshop I am attending.) I have a couple of books on this, but I don't want to bring the "same old - same old" that other people might be using.

Answer 1

Topic: Addition and Subtraction with Calculators

Grade Level: 2 - 4

Name of Activities: Nim

Now You're 21

7 - Up

1 1 Down

Materials Needed: Calculator

2 People

Description of Activity:
NIM - This is a partner activity, so first place everyone with a partner. Have them punch in the number 21 on their calculators. The two players alternate turns. During
their turn they must subtract 1, 2, or 3 from the number on the calculator. Continue until one person reaches zero or a negative number. This person is the looser.

VARIATIONS:

Now You're 21 - Same rules apply as above, except start with zero and add 1, 2, or 3.

First to reach 21 wins.

7 - Up - Same rules apply. Start with zero, add one or two. First to the number seven is the winner.

11 - Down - Same rules apply. Start with eleven, subtract one or two. First to reach zero is the winner.

2001 - Same rules apply, enter 2001, subtract 1 - 99 on each turn. First to reach zero is the winner.

*** This activity can be modified to fit the level that the students are at.

*** You can play the game with other numbers, perhaps start with the number of the day, birthdays, etc.

Good Luck....