The Value of Zero

   What is the value of zero?  Some students thought this was a trick question, and as we discussed thoughts, the understanding of zero as a place holder was solidified.  To further understanding of place value, we played a game that you could try at home!
   Use a six-sided dice and roll 4 numbers.  These are the digits you will use.  Decide if you and your partner will make the greatest number possible or least number possible with the four digits.  Next, each partner shows the number using four representations of numbers- standard form, word form, expanded form, and picture form.  Finally, find the number that is 10 more, 10 less, 100 more, or 100 less than the starting number.  Compare results and begin the next round!