NCERT Class 4 Mathematics Math-Mela: Chapter 10 — Player 1 starts by choosing either 1 or 2.
This chapter introduces the NIM Game, a two-player game where players add either 1 or 2 to a running total, aiming to reach a target number first. The chapter explains the rules of the game, focusing on reaching the target number 10. It poses questions about winning strategies based on the opponent's current total, such as reaching 6, 7, or 8. Teachers are encouraged to help students explore variations with different target numbers and analyze game results. The chapter also includes an addition chart and prompts students to identify patterns, observe the frequency of numbers, and analyze rows/columns for even or odd numbers, fostering analytical and strategic thinking skills.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 4 |
| Subject | Mathematics |
| Book | Math-Mela |
| Chapter | Chapter 10 — Player 1 starts by choosing either 1 or 2. |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 3 minutes |
| Word count | 470 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the rules of the NIM Game.
- Develop strategies for winning the NIM Game.
- Practice addition skills by reaching target numbers.
- Identify patterns in an addition chart.
- Analyze number properties (even/odd) in mathematical tables.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Player | A person who takes part in a game. |
| Target number | The specific number that players aim to reach. |
| Winner | The person who achieves the goal first in a game. |
| Total | The sum of numbers added together. |
| Strategy | A plan or method for achieving a goal. |
| Analyze | Examine in detail to explain or interpret. |
| Patterns | Regularities or recurring features. |
| Even numbers | Numbers divisible by 2 (e.g., 2, 4, 6). |
| Odd numbers | Numbers not divisible by 2 (e.g., 1, 3, 5). |
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Practice questions
- If the target number is 10, and the current total is 7, what number should you add (1 or 2) to win? Answer: Add 2 to reach 9, then the other player can only add 1 to reach 10. You need to add 3 to win, which is not possible by adding only 1 or 2. If the total is 7, and it's your turn, you cannot win if the target is 10.
- In the NIM game, what are the two choices a player can make each turn? Answer: A player can choose to add either 1 or 2.
- How many times does the number 9 appear in the addition chart provided? Answer: The number 9 appears 3 times in the addition chart.
- Observe the addition chart. Are there any rows or columns that contain only even numbers? Answer: Yes, the row starting with 0 and the column starting with 0 contain only even numbers.
Frequently asked questions
What is the NIM Game?
The NIM Game is a two-player game where players take turns adding either 1 or 2 to a running total, with the goal of being the player who reaches a specific target number first.
What is the target number in the NIM Game described in the chapter?
The primary target number discussed in the chapter is 10.
Can you win the NIM game if the other player has reached a total of 6 and it is your turn (target 10)?
If the total is 6 and it's your turn, you can add 1 to make it 7 or add 2 to make it 8. In either case, the other player can reach 10 on their next turn, so you cannot guarantee a win.
How is the addition chart in the chapter made?
The addition chart is made by adding the number in the first column to the number in the first row for each cell.
What kind of patterns can be observed in the addition chart?
Patterns include diagonal sequences of numbers, repeating differences between adjacent numbers, and the distribution of even and odd numbers.
What does it mean to find a number where you are sure you can win the NIM game?
It means finding a starting number or a position in the game from which, with optimal play, you can always force a win, regardless of the opponent's moves.
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NCERT Class 4 Mathematics — Math-Mela — Chapter 10 — Player 1 starts by choosing either 1 or 2.. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.