3rd Grade Math Games & Activities

Use games to help students have a better understanding of math concepts.

The use of math games and activities can be highly beneficial for students. These hands-on activities can increase students' problem solving abilities, help them maintain focus and have a better attitude about mathematics. As a result, students will be more likely to find class engaging and fruitful. These games also encourage students to practice mathematical facts at home to become better competitors.

Dice Roll

Soft dice cut down on the noise level for this activity.

Divide the class into groups of three or four students each. Give each group a set of dice. Explain to students that each should take turns rolling the dice. The student should either subtract the lower number from the higher number, multiply the two numbers or add the two numbers, depending on the math unit being studied. If a player gives the wrong answer, they are out for that round. The other players should continue playing until a winner is determined. Students enjoy the fast pace of this game.

Math Baseball

Build interest with a baseball inspired math game.

If weather permits, take students outside for this fun game. If not, you can play it indoors. Establish a home plate, first, second and third base. Divide the class into two teams. One team should be in the field, the other up to bat. When a student goes to bat, he must answer a math question correctly to advance to first base. If the student answers incorrectly, the team receives a strike. After three strikes, the other team is up to bat. If a second student answers a question correctly, that child moves to first base and the student on first base moves to second. With correct answers, players continue to move around the bases accordingly. Play at least three innings of this game. If desired, choose one grand slam question for students that, if answered correctly, allows the batter and all of the students on the bases to score.

Snap Practice

Students enjoy snapping for this fun game.

Students should memorize basic math facts. After students thoroughly understand the concept of multiplication, encourage them to begin memorizing. Assemble the class in a large circle. Choose one student to go first. Give him a problem, such as nine times seven. Explain to students that everyone else will snap their fingers three times. If the student does not answer correctly before the third snap ends, that student sits down. This can be difficult at first, but with practice, students get better. Continue asking students around the circle until you have a winner.

Math Bingo

Make math practice exciting with bingo.

Students will enjoy playing a math bingo game to review various concepts. Make inexpensive bingo boards using cardboard and a permanent marker. Draw a grid on every board with various numbers in each space. Then cut out squares of paper with different math problems. Make sure all of the numbers on the boards are answers to the questions. Give students round circles cut from construction paper to cover the squares if they are called on. When students are ready, draw a question without looking. Write the problem on the board. Ask students to help work it out and then announce the answer.The first player to fill all of his squares is the winner. Continue playing to determine who finishes second and third.

References

• Educational Resources Information Center: "An Action Based Research Study on How Using Manipulatives will Increase Student Achievement in Mathematics"; Crystal Allen; November 2007