Students answer questions correctly to collect treasure from the bottom of the ocean floor. Each piece of treasure is worth a different amount of points, so it’s not just about getting the answer right - it’s also about collecting the most valuable gems. The winner is the person with the highest total at the end of the game!

This version focuses on solving near doubles addition problems up to 20. Students use mental strategies to solve equations like 6 + 7 by using doubles they already know, such as 6 + 6. This encourages number flexibility and efficient addition thinking.

Each correct answer earns treasure, with the occasional surprise treasure chest offering mystery rewards. Incorrect answers send the treasure falling back into the ocean, so students are motivated to focus, think carefully and give it their best effort.

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Solve near doubles addition problems to 20
• ✅ Apply mental strategies using doubles to add efficiently
• ✅ Strengthen number sense and flexible thinking
• ✅ Build confidence in quick recall of addition facts
• ✅ Engage in points-based, interactive gameplay

How to Play:

1. Students are shown an addition problem that involves near doubles.
2. They solve the sum mentally and choose the correct answer from the multiple-choice options.
3. A correct answer adds a piece of treasure to their collection, with points based on the treasure’s size and type.
4. If incorrect, their treasure sinks back to the ocean floor and no points are added.
5. The player with the highest total treasure score at the end of the game wins.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use during addition or mental maths units to reinforce near doubles strategies
• 💡 Great for Year 1–3 students who are developing fluency and confidence in mental computation
• 💡 Pair with a doubles and near doubles warm-up using number cards or tens frames
• 💡 Replay to encourage mastery and speed in mental addition

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Let students personalise their experience by choosing from six characters before the game begins
• 💛 Select solo, paired or group play depending on how you want students to engage
• 💛 Send the QR code home so families can support fluency practise through fun play

Let’s Sail – Near Doubles: Addition to 20 helps students build mental maths strength while searching for treasure beneath the waves!