Make the beginning of the class fresh and interesting by providing students with a game or activity that will result in learning math concepts. For example, an easy group activity consists of using two dice, paper and pencil. Divide the class into small groups and give two dice to each small group. Each student in the group throws the dice, writes down the numbers that result and then makes an arithmetic operation (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division) depending on the grade level. Students take turns and have a time limit, if necessary. Teachers are able to monitor the students' progress by reviewing the numbers written and the result calculated by the students.
Dramatization activities are ideal for problem-solving operations. Dramatization allows students to participate in role-playing and become engaged in the subject through the use of stories or analogies. For example, ask three or four students to volunteer and solve the area or perimeter of a polygon. Each kid can represent a different value for length, base or height of the polygon. The fourth student, with the help of the rest of the class, needs to find out what formula to use and how to calculate the area or perimeter. Students sitting down may raise their hand to participate and contribute.
Transmit mathematical concepts to students by comparing objects and things that are already familiar to children. For example, the simple concept of area can be illustrated using small and big boxes. Kids can determine which box will have enough space or "area" to fit certain toys or items. Through this activity teachers can introduce terminology, such as length, depth and size, which will later be used in other math activities. If learning geometry or shapes, ask students to identify and name such shapes all over the classroom.
Make use of any educational technology you have available. Software applications like Smart Boards allow teachers to make interactive lessons and use a variety of resources for planning and creating lesson material. Additionally, using visual and tangible materials such as wood blocks, sticks or carton shapes can help you explain concepts like ratio, division, subtraction and addition. Math concepts for kids can be intangible and abstract, but illustrating these in ways that can be seen, touched and applied to daily activities will have a greater impact on kids' learning.
Daily mental math calculations are a great way of engaging students and can encourage kids to learn. Focus the operations on the level of knowledge that corresponds to each grade: from addition and subtraction of whole integers to fractions, division and percentage for higher grades. Consider limiting the amount of numbers used to allow students to master each area and gain confidence. For example, if working with addition operations limit the calculations to numbers from 0 through 9. Through this method children can deduce basic math facts like 4 + 3 is always 7. Consider dividing the class into two-person groups. Each group of two students is a team and must raise a hand before calling out the answer. This is a great way of fomenting collaboration and participation.