Do you use interactive games in math? I absolutely love them and think you and your students will too! Read on for 3 reasons why math games are the best!
Math Games Are Versatile
When it comes to using games in math, one of the coolest things about them is their versatility! For example, take my favorite interactive game, Stinky Feet. You can use it in so many ways!
Stinky Feet can be used as an individual assessment, a partner game, or as a whole class review activity. That means that one single interactive game has three times the impact!
Not only that, but when you use interactive games in math you are able to recycle content from throughout the year in a fun and engaging way that will help your students to work towards mastery of a given topic. Instead of using drills that will bore your students to tears, math games provide a meaningful experience that will stick with students long after they are done playing.
Another way in which math games are versatile is by design. Not all math games need to be digital! In fact, I would argue that some of the best interaction happens when students can physically manipulate pieces of a game.
Math stations are a great way to make this happen!
Interactive Games in Math Meet Learners Where They Are
Another one of my favorite things about using interactive games in math is the ability to differentiate for students’ needs. Due to the nature of math games, it is incredibly easy to change the content for each student based on their current learning goals.
Whether this means providing different students with particular games or everyone playing the same game with different content, the differentiation is built right in. Most importantly, it doesn’t require a lot of extra prep work for you!
This might look like having students complete different versions of an online game or switching up who takes part in what math station at any given time.
Math Games Stretch Thinking
Quite possibly the most important element of using interactive games in math is the opportunity for students to take risks. Game play allows students to make low-stakes gambles that they may otherwise be unwilling to take in the classroom.
For example, while a student would likely be very hesitant to try solving a difficult problem in front of peers, this same student may jump at the chance to earn extra points in a math game by trying a problem more difficult than they are comfortable with.
This means students are willing to take more chances and stretch their thinking! Talk about a win-win!
Why Interactive Games in Math?
The long and short of it is…can you really afford to NOT use interactive games in math?
The benefits outweigh the drawbacks ten to one!
Through interactive games in math, you are able to create a versatile learning environment where your students can work on the standards they each need and stretch their thinking to new heights.
Sounds pretty great to me!
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