Math Through Games
A Teacher Collaborative Inquiry
by A. Chang, L. Coutu, C. Poston, M. Rivera, L. Sarbadhikari and B. Vickery
How can we use math games as “effective vehicles” for motivating children to think and reason mathematically?
Benefits of Using Math Games
·They are fun and engaging
·They allow student to apply their math skills
·They provide opportunities to build self-concept and develop positive attitudes towards mathematics through reducing the fear of failure and error
·Greater learning can occur through games due to the increased interaction between children, opportunities to test ideas and problem solving strategies
·They allow children to operate at different levels of thinking and to learn from each other
·They are a great assessment tool in a non-threatening situation
·They provide 'hands-on' interactive tasks for both school and home
·Children can work independently of the teacher since the rules of the game and the children's motivation usually keep them on task
·Language barriers are reduced and are great for ELLs
·Promote more positive attitudes towards math
·Improve basic skills while allowing for problem solving
·Are easy to prepare
Web-Site Resources
On-Line Learning Games
Print Resources
Traditional Games
-Around the World with flashcards
-Barrier Games
-Rock, Paper, Scissors addition or multiplication