The project we most recently worked on in our scimathics was a math project. In specific, a project where we worked on algebra and how you can use algebra tiles to more efficiently and accurately solve algebra problems. With algebra tiles it’s easy to really see what problem you are solving in your head physically and it’s often less confusing than using numbers alone. In our project we were tasked with making a game that included algebra tiles in a fun and interesting way, but a way that still helped with math and included algebra. For this project I paired up with Daniel and we got to work. 

To start the process of making a game it’s important to start by making the rules. Me and Daniel first made our base rules then made many major changes to how the rules would make the game play and how well the game flowed and worked to the average person. Once we made the rules, we incorporated the math. This part is easy because its really all about assigning different parts of your game different numerical values and how you will use mathematical processes to make the numbers into problems. We then themed our game. We went with a retro platformer video game style. We thought this would add creativity and engage the player more effectively. Ultimately we chose Mario as our classic video game because everybody knows it and it looked really nice. Now that everything was done we just needed to design our algebra tiles. I did most of the digital design for the tiles because I do a lot of digital design in my free time so I know how to do it. Once I finished them and they looked good, Daniel printed and cut them out. Lastly, we had to test our game and make a “how to play” video. Because of our previously thought out game design, this step went smoothly and quickly. Even though our project was handed in late, I think when we put our heads together we created some really great work. Our game played well, was fun, looked good and most importantly included all angles of algebra and algebra tiles. 

Through this game project I really did come to fully comprehend and understand algebra with and without algebra tiles. Not only that but I also improved my video making, digital design and creative and critical thinking skills. With the game I definitely developed thinking strategies to solve puzzles and play games by creating a game myself. By creating a game you first really have to asses what it takes to create a good game. From there you see what kind of strategy is required to play different games and then from there I actually made a strategic mathematical game. I also visualized to explore mathematical concepts and relationships. There is proof that I did this because to successfully play my game, which I created you must visualize and solve mental math.  Another core competency that I think this project really helped me demonstrate was explaining and justifying mathematical ideas and decisions in many ways because of how the gameplay in our game functioned.