Fifteen

Fifteen
Aim of the Game

Practise mental maths and calculation strategies by using dice to make the target number 15. The player with the highest total score after several rounds wins.

What You Need
  • Three dice, or one dice rolled three times
  • Pen and paper (optional, for recording calculations and scores)
  • Players (2 or more)
How to Play
  1. Roll the dice.
    • On your turn, roll three dice.
    • Example: 2, 5, 6
  2. Make 15 using the dice.
    • Use any combination of addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division to reach 15.
    • Example: 6 × 5 = 30 → 30 ÷ 2 = 15
  3. Score points.
    • If you successfully make 15, you score 15 points for that turn.
    • If you cannot make 15, score 0 points.
  4. Next player’s turn.
    • Each player takes turns rolling the dice and trying to make 15.
  5. Repeat for multiple rounds.
    • Decide beforehand how many rounds to play.
  6. Winning the game
    • Add up all points at the end.
    • The player with the highest total score wins.
Variations
  • Timed challenge: Limit each turn to a set time to make the calculation.
  • Different target numbers: Try 12, 20, or other numbers to increase difficulty.
  • Team play: Work in pairs to encourage discussion of calculation strategies.
  • Operation restrictions: Limit the operations allowed for an extra challenge (e.g., only addition and subtraction).
Educational Benefits
  • Mental Maths Practice: Encourages rapid calculation and flexibility with operations.
  • Problem Solving: Promotes thinking creatively with numbers.
  • Engagement: Turns maths into a fun, competitive game.
  • Strategic Thinking: Players learn multiple ways to combine numbers to reach a target.