Basic algebra games give adults the opportunity to go over the basics of algebra if they aren’t confident in their abilities. One example of a basic algebra game is “Easy Algebra Equations” (see Resources), which presents the player with an equation and four possible solutions. Basic algebra games can be solved by thinking about the numbers that are shown, and remembering that the figures on either side of the “=” sign have to be equal to one another. Substitute the number represented by the letter with one possible option and see if the equation works. Generally, basic algebra can be worked out by completing one sum to determine the value of the letter.
Two-step algebra games require the player to complete two sums to be sure of the result. One example of a game featuring two-step algebra is Math Play’s “Two Step Equation Game” (see Resources). Games like this require the player to complete a two-step equation and select the correct answer from the options displayed. Depending on the game, this may be coupled with some simple game-play to make the process more enjoyable. Players are rewarded for correct answers and shown the correct answer if they are wrong.
Algebra games that feature variables on both sides make the process of solving the equation even more difficult. This is because you do not have a completed side of the equation to use to solve the variables. Quia’s “Equations with Variables on Both Sides” game (see Resources) is one example of this type of algebra game. These games can be fairly simplistic in style, and some are even just a basic quiz with possible options displayed underneath a problem.
Negative algebra games feature equations that include negative numbers. This combines algebraic knowledge with knowledge of how to perform calculations with negative numbers. Before attempting this type of game, adults should be confident with both basic algebra and multiplying negative numbers. One example of this type of game is “Algebra Balance Scales” (see Resources). This game uses visual scales to help you visualize the balanced equation and the process of solving negative equations.