Ways to use UNO in the Classroom

Uno is a popular card game that was first developed in 1971 and has been played by millions of people, young and old, ever since. It’s certainly a favourite in our house!

The game consists of 112 cards, sorted into different colour suits, and each suit has number cards from 0 to 9. There are also additional action or ‘Wild’ cards.

Today, the classic game is accompanied by different themed sets and variations. Take a look at them all here. *

As well as enjoying games of UNO in the classroom, why not try some of these ideas to support learning in a variety of subjects?

English:

• Write a set of instructions to teach somebody how to play UNO.
• Design a poster or other type of advert that encourages people to buy / play the game.
• Write a newspaper article about a world record-breaking game of UNO.

Maths:

• Pick a selection of number cards and put them into order of size.
• Choose three (or more) number cards and use them to make the largest number possible. Can you compete with a friend to see who can make the biggest number?
• Choose two cards at random and use them to make addition, subtraction, multiplication or division calculations.
• Choose three number cards and try to use them to make every number from 1 to 100. You can add, subtract, multiply and divide but you can only use each digit once. You can also place digits next to each other to make two-digit numbers.
• Choose two cards and place one above the other to make a fraction. Can you think of equivalent fractions?
• Look at the full range of cards available in a pack. Work out the probability of choosing a number ‘4’ from a full set. What is the probability of choosing a red card?

Computing:

• Record a video tutorial that teaches people how to play the game. Here is one example for inspiration:

• Design a mobile game version of UNO.
• Use publishing tools to create a poster that explains the rules of the game.

Design Technology:

• Design a machine that shares UNO cards between players in a game.
• Design a new UNO box to appeal to people browsing in a toy / games shop.

Art:

• Design your own set of UNO cards. Could you make a themed version? Use the blank card template at the bottom of this page to get started!

Music:

• Create a catchy soundtrack that could be used as part of a UNO mobile game.

History:

• Research the history of the game and create a timeline to show the main events.

PSHE:

• Find out the names of the numbers / colours in other languages. Could you try to play the game in a different language?

Downloads: