To encourage collaborative learning, have students play Wuzzit Trouble (or Wuzzit Trouble Jr for K-3) collaboratively in teams or small groups. Ask students to help each other develop strategies for solving the puzzles. Structure the teams so they include students with diverse academic abilities. You may discover that typically high-performing students may not be the best game players and that typically low-performing students really shine. Some students may solve the puzzles intuitively, but need their teammates’ help to correctly articulate math concepts.

Whether you use our lessons or create your own, we suggest that all students play the game or puzzle first to create a strong basis for their learning when you show them how its principles integrate into your curriculum.