Prince William County Public Schools

Game of 24

The Prince William County Public Schools Mathematics office sponsors the 24 Challenge® tournament for all PWCS schools each year. The tournament provides students with opportunities to practice and to build a foundation of computational fluency in an engaging and fun way.

Tournament Resources

• PWCS Game of 24 Overview
• Game of 24 Division Tournament Rules

What is the Game of 24?

Mathematics is the science and language of patterns. Students will look for patterns to make 24 using all mathematical operations appropriate to each grade level. The program has evolved as an effective means of reaching a broad spectrum of students within a community with the message that "Math is Fun. I can learn math."

How do students learn about this game?

Students are introduced to the game in the beginning of the year, and then some cannot get enough of the game. Students in grades 3 through 9 not only practice basic mathematics facts in the areas of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, exponents, and algebra, they become adept at mental math, communicating mathematically, validating their thinking, and recognizing multiple ways to solve problems. The added benefit is that all this thinking and problem solving is disguised as a game, thereby helping to create a new generation of thinkers.

How to Play

Structure of the Rounds of Play

• Round One - Individual classroom 24 Game tournament

Grades 3-5 students practice throughout the year and class teams are selected.

• Round Two - Grade-level tournaments within a school

Two students are selected from each grade level.

• Round Three - Division-level tournament for each grade level

For more information about the 24 Game, visit the Math 24 website.

Updated: February 3, 2025

Challenge 24 Tournament Results for Students in Grades 3-5

April 2025

Math competitions have been held throughout Prince William County Public Schools (PWCS). Continue reading to learn more about the valuable experience and knowledge students have gained through active participation.

Game of 24

Students from 16 PWCS elementary schools participated in the division’s Math 24 tournament at Benton Middle School on April 5, 2025.

Throughout the year, third, fourth, and fifth-grade students engage in practice sessions before or after school. These sessions not only help students develop their mathematical skills but also foster a positive climate and culture by connecting students from different schools

Shahram, a third-grade participant from Rosa Parks Elementary School, shared, "I got a bit worried, but it was a great experience. And it made my day!"

Many coaches expressed their gratitude for the opportunity their students had to compete against other schools. They highlighted the camaraderie and sportsmanship displayed, particularly during the final stages of the competition, as students gathered around the final four table.

Thank you to School Board members Mr. Blake and Mrs. Zargapur for taking the time to join us and share in the enjoyment of the event. As well as a special thank you to Mr. Jessie as he presented the trophies to all of our winners.

Congratulations to the following winners:

Grade 3 Division Winners

• First Place: Ahmed Chokhmane (Mary Williams Elementary School)
• Second Place: Harper Evans (Mary Williams Elementary School)
• Third Place: Oumou Koumare (Potomac View Elementary School)
• Fourth Place: Ian Tryzbiak (Leesylvania Elementary School)

Grade 4 Division Winners

• First Place: Julian Owusu (Mary Williams Elementary School)
• Second Place: Julian Van Hook (Mary Williams Elementary School)
• Third Place: Bryson Pell (Chris Yung Elementary School)
• Fourth Place: Othman El Mouchrif (Chris Yung Elementary School)

Grade 5 Division Winners

• First Place: Ryan Sheth (Mary Williams Elementary School)
• Second Place: Ahmed Abdelgani (Mary Williams Elementary School)
• Third Place: Daniel Cruz (Bennett Elementary School)
• Fourth Place: Lucas Hernandez (Potomac View Elementary School)