Are you always on the lookout for new ways to practise addition fluency? Our Domino Drop 3 in a Row: Addition Game is just what you need! This fun and interactive partner or small group game gives students repeated opportunities to practise simple addition facts in an engaging, hands-on way. The element of strategy and chance makes it an activity students will want to play again and again.

The game is easy to set up and play. Each student will need their own game board, and a set of dominoes is placed face down in the centre of the playing area. On their turn, students select a domino, add the two sides of the domino together, and cover the corresponding number on their game board. The goal is to be the first to cover three numbers in a row - either vertically, horizontally, or diagonally. If the number is already covered, the domino is returned to the table face down, adding a fun element of memory and strategy to the game.

Domino Drop 3 in a Row: Addition Game provides meaningful practise of addition facts while also promoting flexible thinking, turn-taking, and problem-solving. It’s perfect for use during maths rotations, as an early finisher activity, or for small group work. Best of all, it turns routine addition practise into a game students will genuinely enjoy!

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Develop fluency with simple addition facts
• ✅ Strengthen number sense and understanding of number relationships
• ✅ Build strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
• ✅ Promote turn-taking, collaboration, and positive maths talk
• ✅ Foster mathematical confidence and enjoyment through gameplay

What’s Included:

• Domino Drop 3 in a Row game board for each player
• Teacher notes with tips for set-up, gameplay, and differentiation

Materials Needed:

• Printed game boards (preferably laminated or placed in write and wipe sleeves for durability)
• Standard set of dominoes
• Counters, small objects, or whiteboard markers to cover numbers on the game boards

How to Use:

1. Print and prepare the game boards for each student.
2. Place a set of dominoes face down in the centre of the table.
3. Students take turns selecting a domino, adding the two sides together, and covering the matching number on their game board.
4. If the number is already covered, the domino is returned to the table face down.
5. The first player to cover three numbers in a row (vertically, horizontally, or diagonally) wins the game.
6. Encourage students to discuss their strategies and number choices as they play.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Include in maths rotations to reinforce addition fluency through engaging play.
• 💡 Use as an early finisher activity for ongoing addition practise.
• 💡 Incorporate into small group instruction for targeted support of number facts.
• 💡 Run a class tournament where students rotate partners to promote collaboration and strategy building.
• 💡 Pair older students with younger buddies to foster mentoring during maths games sessions.

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Laminate the game boards or use write and wipe sleeves to maximise durability and reusability.
• 💛 Model the game with the whole class before introducing it to small groups or independent play.
• 💛 Provide number lines or counters for students who may need additional support.
• 💛 Encourage students to verbalise their addition strategies as they play to reinforce number sense and mental maths skills.

Domino Drop 3 in a Row: Addition Game is a fun, flexible, and highly engaging way to build addition fluency and mathematical confidence in your classroom. Your students will love the game element, and you’ll love seeing their number sense grow!