Teaching Math through Games and Puzzles

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At the elementary school level math can be taught through using various mathematically based puzzles, games and picture worksheets. Math games are an excellent way to teach problem solving and the more complicated mathematical processes (at this age) of division and multiplication. There are several worksheets that can be downloaded from any number of elementary level math websites or there are animated flash games which can be played directly on the webpage. Since elementary aged children have most likely been exposed to any number of games and puzzles, using these methods to teach math is a natural fit.

Here are a couple of the favorite elementary math based websites that can be used as a resource:

Cut-the-knot.com – This website contains a huge library of math related games and puzzles for all elementary school ages/levels. There are problem solving math puzzles as well as flash games that can be played directly on the webpage. All the user need do is to click on the appropriate link and they gain immediate access to the puzzle or game of their choice. These games are offered free to use and all that is asked is that the original source is referenced somewhere on the worksheet.

Primarygames.com- This site mainly features flash games that are accessed via links and are played directly on the website. The user simply clicks on the appropriate subject and a list of games will be presented. A word of warning, this site is partially funded by online advertising and in order to skip the ad, there is an icon that can be clicked. This type of site can be used as a type of ‘bonus’ treat for those students who have successfully completed a unit or worksheet.

These two websites represent the vast majority of the elementary math webpages to be found on the internet. They both make excellent supplementary resources to teaching math that the students will enjoy. The teacher will often find that students that they were unable to reach using the standard methods will respond exceptional well to these alternative teaching techniques.