You’ve reached the tomb, and it’s time to get the treasure! Each correct answer helps you uncover a sparkling gem—but there’s a catch. Will you play it safe and collect what you’ve earned, or risk it all to go after the bigger prize? One mistake and your treasure disappears through the trapdoor!

This version focuses on identifying the answers to near doubles addition problems to 20. Students will use their understanding of doubles facts to solve related sums, such as 6 + 7 by thinking of 6 + 6 and adding one more. These strategies build mental maths confidence and support number flexibility.

Each correct answer adds a new gem to your collection. After every question, players must decide whether to collect their treasure or take a chance on the next round. At the end of the game, the player with the most gem points is crowned the ultimate tomb raider!

Key Learning Outcomes:

• ✅ Use known doubles facts to solve near doubles addition problems
• ✅ Build fluency and accuracy with addition to 20
• ✅ Strengthen mental computation and number relationships
• ✅ Develop risk-reward decision making through interactive play
• ✅ Engage in exciting gameplay that motivates strategic thinking

How to Play:

1. Students are presented with a near doubles addition problem (e.g. 5 + 6).
2. They use their doubles knowledge to solve the equation mentally.
3. Correct answers earn treasure, and players choose to keep it or risk it for more.
4. Incorrect answers cause players to lose their unbanked treasure for that round.
5. The game ends when all questions are answered, and the player with the most gem points wins.

Ideas for Classroom Use:

• 💡 Use to reinforce near doubles strategy during addition units in Years 1–3
• 💡 Great for maths rotations, fluency sessions, or early finisher challenges
• 💡 Pair with hands-on manipulatives or mini whiteboards for working out strategies
• 💡 Replay the game to build confidence and mastery of near doubles over time

Top Teacher Tips:

• 💛 Let students personalise their experience by choosing from six characters before the game begins
• 💛 Select the number of players or teams at the start of the game to suit individual, paired, or group play
• 💛 Send the QR code home for students to play as a homework or revision task

Let’s Steal – Near Doubles: Addition to 20 brings fast-paced fun to the world of mental addition, helping students practise efficient strategies while chasing glittering rewards!