As teachers, we're always looking for ways to make maths engaging and enjoyable for our students. For primary school students, learning through play can be particularly effective. Maths games not only make learning fun but also reinforce key concepts, encourage problem-solving skills, and promote collaboration among students.
Today, I'm going to share some of my favourite maths games that you can easily integrate into your classroom. Whether you're looking for something quick or a more in-depth activity, these games will captivate your students and make maths a highlight of their day.
1. Maths Bingo
Maths Bingo is a fantastic game for reinforcing a variety of basic maths skills. There are many ways of playing a Bingo game in your maths lesson.
Bingo cards have numbers 1 - 100. Instead of calling out numbers, you can call out simple maths problems.
Bingo cards have the maths problem. You call out answers and the players must find a matching number sentence.
Blank Bingo cards - hand out blank bingo cards with instructions on how the players should fill them in themselves e.g. multiplication sums, numbers 1 - 50 or 50 - 100, simple fractions etc. You call out suitable questions.
This game can be easily adapted for different skill levels, making it suitable for all primary students.
How to Play:
Hand out bingo cards.
Call out problems or answers, and have students mark any correct answers on their cards.
The first student to get a full row, column, or diagonal shouts “Bingo!”
You can find a Place Value Bingo Game here.
2. Number Line Hopscotch
This outdoor game is a great way to combine physical activity with maths learning. Create a number line on the playground using chalk, and have students hop to the correct answers of given problems.
How to Play:
Draw a large number line on the ground.
Call out a maths problem (e.g., "3 + 4"), and a student, starting from 0, must hop to the square representing the correct answer.
You can also ask students to solve subtraction problems or even basic multiplication.
Number Line Hopscotch helps students visualise number relationships and develop a strong understanding of addition, subtraction, and more.
3. Scoot
Scoot is a fast-paced and exciting game that gets students moving around the classroom while practising their maths skills. It’s perfect for reinforcing concepts and keeping students engaged.
How to Play:
Prepare a set of task cards with maths problems, and place one card on each student’s desk.
Give each student a recording sheet to write down their answers.
Students start at their own desk, solve the problem on the task card, and write their answer on the recording sheet in the corresponding numbered box.
After a set amount of time (usually 1-2 minutes), call out "Scoot!" and have students move to the next desk.
The game continues until all students have visited every desk and completed all the task cards.
Scoot is a versatile game that can be adapted to any maths topic, from addition and subtraction to geometry and fractions. It’s also a great way to add movement to your lesson, keeping students active and focused.
4. Task Card Scavenger Hunt
Task cards are a versatile resource that can be used in various ways, but one particularly fun use is a scavenger or treasure hunt. Place the task cards around the classroom within the view of the students as they walk around the room.
How to Play:
Place task cards in different spots around the classroom.
Let students work individually or in pairs.
Students walk around trying to locate the task cards.
When they find one, they work out the answer and record it on their answer sheet.
Continue until all task cards have been found, or a set time has been reached.
This game encourages movement, collaboration, and critical thinking, all while reinforcing the maths concepts you’re teaching.
You can find a selection of Maths Task Cards here.
5. Digital Maths Games
Incorporating technology in the classroom can add another layer of engagement. Websites like Math Playground and Cool Math Games offer a variety of maths games suitable for different age groups. These platforms provide games that cover topics ranging from basic arithmetic to more advanced concepts, making them a great tool for differentiated learning.
Digital games offer instant feedback, allow for self-paced learning, and can be a great option for early finishers or for setting up a maths rotation.
Jeopardy-style games are also very popular in the classroom. They can be played by two players or by 2 to 4 teams of players. It's an exciting way to review maths skills.
You can find a selection of these Interactive Digital Game Shows here.
Engaging students in maths through games not only makes learning enjoyable but also deepens their understanding of key concepts. These games can easily be adapted to suit different learning levels and can be a great way to add variety to your teaching. Whether you're using simple materials like chalk or integrating digital tools, there's no shortage of ways to make maths fun and meaningful in your classroom.
Why not start with one of these games this week? You’ll find that your students are not only learning but also eagerly participating in maths lessons. Remember, when students enjoy what they're doing, they’re more likely to retain the information and develop a love for the subject.
Happy teaching!
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