Instructify

I stumbled-upon this little gem of a game that is an awesome algebra teaching tool in the guise of the perfect online distraction game. The Algebra Puzzle uses a grid of symbols such as cars, stars and guitars in a 3×3 (beginner) or 4×4 (advanced) configuration, testing players on their ability to assign values based on the sum of the symbols in each row and column. It’s basically a spreadsheet for beginners.

Nonetheless, the game is fun and addictive, and is a great way to work your algebraic skills at any learning level. Presented by Math Playground, this game is one of many activities on the site. If you and your students best the flowers and apples, there’s a similar Sudoku style game called Kakuro if you want something a little more time consuming. –JEREMY S. GRIFFIN

Math Playground’s Algebra Puzzle