Students of all ages enjoy using the computer. Students will build interest in mathematics with the use of free online games. These games are made to motivate children. Websites such as Fun 4 The Brain (at fun4thebrain.com) and Kids Numbers (at kidsnumbers.com) appeal to students with various interests and skills. Students can work independently while at the computers, which gives the teacher time to monitor all of the children's progress. These games can help students increase their understanding and speed of basic math facts. Students are self-motivated to continue practicing as they advance through the levels.
Divide students into groups of two for this fun game. Tell each pair to draw a tic-tac-toe board on individual whiteboards or a blank sheet of paper. Give students a long list of possible math problems. Students should then write down a problem in each square, such as 15 + 11. When a player is ready to draw an "X" or "O" in a square, he must first give the correct answer. Students should write the answer below the problem. Explain to students that after they solve the problem, they should draw a large "X" over the square or circle the problem if he is using an "O." The winner is declared when either the "Xs" or "Os" form a straight line. This is a great game for the classroom, as students can progress at a rate that works for them and move on to make new boards with more difficult problems if time allows.
Students enjoy using their hands for this fun activity. Divide the class into small groups. Give each group a set of dice. Explain to students that each person should take turns rolling the dice. Depending on the math concept being studied, the student should subtract the smaller number from the larger number, add the two numbers together or multiply the numbers rolled. Instruct students to say out loud the operation being completed. For example, the student should say, "Six minus one is five" or "Three times three equals nine." If a student gives the wrong answer, she is out for that round. The other students should continue rolling until there is a winner.
Build students' problem-solving abilities with this game. Ask students to get into groups of three or four. Tell students that they will need a solid surface. Distribute old jigsaw puzzles to students to assemble. Explain to students that every time they find three pieces that fit together, they should turn over the three pieces and write a math problem on them. For example, students could write "5 x" on one piece, "6" on the second piece and "= 30" on the third piece. Tell students that the next time they assemble the puzzle, they will put it together using the math problems.