DIY Board Game Template
Blank track-and-squares board to design.
The DIY Board Game Template is a blank track-and-squares game board that teachers, students, or parents can customise from scratch. The pre-drawn path of numbered squares — with a clear START and FINISH — removes the layout work so creators can focus entirely on the content: writing instructions, trivia questions, rewards, or penalties inside each square to match any topic being studied. Because the board design is neutral, it fits every subject and age group. A Year 2 teacher might create a phonics adventure trail, while a secondary student might design a geography trivia race. The template also makes an outstanding project-based learning activity: students research a topic, write game content, and assemble the game — combining writing, design thinking, and subject knowledge in one hands-on task.
Learning objectives
- Integrate subject knowledge into creative game design
- Practice writing clear, concise instructions and questions
- Reinforce content through both creating and playing the game
- Develop project-planning and sequential thinking skills
- Encourage collaboration when teams co-design a shared game
How to use this template
- Download and print the blank board game template — A3 or tabloid size gives the best playing surface.
- Decide on a theme or curriculum topic and plan what type of content goes in each square (question, action, move forward/back).
- Write or draw content inside each square; add colour-coding to distinguish question squares, challenge squares, and free spaces.
- Create game cards, a dice, or a spinner to accompany the board, plus a simple rule card.
- Play-test with a small group, revise any unclear squares, then use with the whole class or send home.
Classroom & home ideas
- Maths facts trail: each square holds an equation — land on it and answer correctly to stay, get it wrong and move back two.
- Spelling bee race: squares contain blank lines where the active player spells a word called out by an opponent.
- Social studies geography game: squares name countries, capitals, or landmarks and ask a quick fact question.
- Student-designed project: pairs research an animal biome, then design squares around food-chain facts as a science assessment alternative.
- Behaviour-positive incentive board for the whole class: squares hold classroom privilege rewards instead of quiz questions.
Skills & curriculum links
Frequently asked questions
What grade levels work best for designing their own board game?
Guided design works well from Grade 2 up. Younger students can contribute the content (drawing or dictating square ideas) while the teacher writes the final text. Independent design suits Grade 4 and above.
How many squares should the board have?
Most printable versions include 30–40 squares, which gives a 15–25 minute game with two dice. For shorter sessions with young children, use a version with 20 squares and a single die.
What do I use as game pieces if I don't have tokens?
Folded paper tents, different-coloured erasers, coins, or small LEGO figures all work well. Students can also make their own pieces from folded card as part of the project.
Can the finished board be reused?
Laminate the completed board to protect it from play wear. Write-on squares can be done in dry-erase marker for a fully reusable version with swappable content.
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