Prepare a set of small index cards with geometry terms. Divide students up into pairs and give each student a number of pipe-cleaners. Have the children manipulate the pipe cleaners according to the term or shape listed on the index card. Students can take turns guessing what their partner is molding from the pipe cleaners; turn it into a game and award points or small tokens for correct answers. Consider having children glue or tape their geometric pipe-cleaner shapes to sheets of paper to take home.
Math dice are an engaging way to help students practice simple math operations. Cover one of the pair of dice with masking tape or a similar tape that can be written on. Write symbols for addition, multiplication, subtraction and division with a permanent marker in place of the numbers. If desired, enlist students' help with this step. Divide students up into partners or small groups and tell them that this special die is the operations cube. Give each pair or group three dice, one being an operations cube. Instruct them to roll the dice; students must perform the rolled operation with the two rolled numbers.
Teach students about proportions, ratios and scales with this fun flag activity. Begin by leading a discussion on professions which use scale drawings, such as architects. Once students are interested in the topic, divide them into groups and provide each group with a small paper copy of a flag that is divided into a number of squares, such as 40. The children must recreate the flag to scale on a poster board or large sheet of paper, copying the image square-by-square. Once the flags have been laid out on the paper the students can paint them. As an extension of this activity, have each student write a paragraph about the project.
Have students demonstrate and practice their knowledge of a math concept through puzzles. Puzzles can be both fun and challenging and provide an opportunity to apply mathematics in a practical way. Following a lesson or unit on certain math concepts, provide students with a variety of puzzles on the topic so that they can apply what they have just learned. Many math puzzles are available online on topics such as measuring, logic, numbers, algebra and symmetry. Consider including additional practice activities such as math riddles, written problems and practice quizzes. These add a fun element for children to look forward to at the end of a lesson.