How to Make File Folder Math Games
Teachers and homeschooling parents need independent activities to teach and reinforce math vocabulary, facts, and problem solving skills. Having activities that are easy to make, simple for kids to negotiate, and flexible to meet multiple levels of learners is critical.
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Instructions
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First, decide on the math topic you want to teach using this game board. Vocabulary terms and math facts make good topics for math file folder games.
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Next, choose the format for the game. Board games can be used with multiple students. Matching and hidden window games are generally used as seat work by individual students. While multiple games can be made, choose one to get started.
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Making a board game requires laying out a pattern across the file folder. Decide on a pattern and lay it out on the board. Once it is in the format desired, make it permanent. There are free board patterns available to print from the Internet and commercial varieties are available for purchase. Many people use stickers and clip art to layout a board. One can also draw the format directly on the board. Decorate the board as desired.
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Laminate or contact paper the file folder game. All board games and pieces that are paper or cardstock should be laminated once completed to increase their use.
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Make a simple game to get started. Boards that are more complex can always be made later. Spinners and dice can be recycled from old games to use with file folder games. Cards can be flipped to move players through the game with directions. Math game cards can be made, or one can use sets of flashcards, add, and change as the needs of students change. One of the great benefits of file folder games is the ability to modify and adapt, as children's skills require the game to change.
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Branch out and use all types of math. Geometry terms can be part of file folder games just as easily as addition or multiplication problems. All that is required is making game cards for those subject areas.
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Make hidden window games by cutting window flaps into cardstock with scissors. Glue the cardstock to the file folder and laminate. Use an Exacto knife to cut the windows open. Be careful not to cut the file folder. Some people choose not to laminate the windows, but they are more liable to rip. With a permanent marker put the problem to be answered on the front of the window and the answer on the file folder covered by the window. The child reads, answers, and then checks the answer to the question. This works well with math problems and vocabulary.
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Make math matching games. On one side, write a list of math problems or vocabulary for the children to answer. Decorate the board and laminate. On the other side of the file folder, add Velcro strips or dots that equal the number of problems asked. Create answer cards and laminate. One possible solution is to number the Velcro dots with the math problem numbers. Have the students put the correct answer for each problem on the appropriate Velcro dot or strip.
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Another method to make the matching board games is by writing mixed up answers on one side of the folder and problems on the other side. Laminate the board. The students use string or erasable markers to match the problem and the correct answer. These matching games are good for math problems and vocabulary.
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Make clear directions cards for each game. If giving answer keys to kids have a clear method of evaluation planned for these activities. Lastly, plan a method of storage for each game and for all the games, you make. Many people use manila envelopes to hold game pieces. Some use crates for the games. It is important to create a method that students can use to keep the game organized and protects the life of the games.
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Tips & Warnings
Do use this as a method of meeting individual needs.
Lamination is critical for the life of these boards.
