This flash game offered by Primary Games is a simple card game that teaches students basic counting and pattern recognition -- both of which are essential for developing math skills. The goal of the game is simple: remove all cards until only four aces remain. As with all flash games, an Internet connection and computer are required for this activity. While the game will not teach fractions or multiplication directly, it builds useful analytical skills for math.
Learning how to multiply is an important part of math skill development in fourth grade. Math Playground offers a simple multiplication activity that allows students to practice their multiplication skills at their own pace. This website presents students with a simple interface. A screen is shown with three boxes forming a simple multiplication problem -- A x B = C -- with one blank space. Students must complete and solve the problem by entering the correct value. The site also allows students to check their answers.
Sudoku puzzles are not just for killing time while waiting for your friend to show up or your plane to leave. These Japanese puzzles are based on a grid of numbers that has been partially filled in. Numbers in each column and row must add up to a given sum while using all the numbers in a serial order -- for instance, from 1 to 6. While 9x9 puzzles -- nine rows by nine columns -- are too complicated for fourth graders, mini-sudoku puzzles that use a 6x6 grid and the numbers 1 to 6 are just right. Teachers may develop puzzles themselves or purchase puzzle books available at most educational resource stores.
Learning fractions is tricky, but Math Playground also offers a fraction game that simplifies the process in a fun and accessible way. In this flash-based online game, students use the keyboard's arrow keys to avoid monsters. Meanwhile, a fraction is flashed on the screen -- for instance 1/2 -- and students must click on fraction equivalents -- such as 4/8 or 8/16. Students win by finding all the fraction equivalents before being "eaten" by the monster.