This is a great NIM type activity for all ages.
Can be played One to One or pairs (Two vs Two): I prefer the latter in a classroom and two places are more likely to discuss the moves before making a decision.
Dont emphasize the competition but after a few times get the students to think about patterns or special numbers of toothpicks etc.
Might need to put the "s" in.
I must admit I am a Do, Say, Write Proponent
Do explore learn through doing, using, drawing
when Proficient at doing
Say explain in your own words what you have been doing
when proficient and explaining orally
Write first in long hand and then if appropriate in maths language
