| |

Fun Division Riddles for Practicing Division Skills

Division is hard for kids…PERIOD!

But it doesn’t have to be if its practiced with something fun like riddles.

Honestly, when I first started out teaching… division always felt like a confusing jumble of numbers because didn’t have their facts memorized. 

No matter how much you try to make your kids practice division problems unless they have a solid grasp of math facts they won’t be able to work on those complex problems.

It’s like not knowing how to drive but trying to drive anyway.

Division Riddles Worksheets and Activities for 3rd 4th and 5th grade math lessons -Pin

If that’s the case, then what we should be focusing on is helping them get their basic math facts straight.

By fifth grade, students should be proficient in basic math facts but if that’s not the case, there’s a problem.

To be honest, there can be many reasons for this problem. 

Reasons like

  • a lack of understanding,
  • memorization feeling like a draining task,
  • table overload,
  • multiplication confusion,

and more can all contribute to elementary kids not having a good grip on facts.

Are you interested in knowing how I make division practice fun and engaging for my kiddos?

Without making it seem like they are practicing… It’s by using riddles!

Riddles are a perfect teaching tool to help students develop division and problem-solving skills during back-to-school time or throughout the whole year.

Why Division Practice Is Important

Practicing division problems is crucial for a kid’s basic math learning and understanding.

It’s like a foundational math skill that helps kids make sense of math.

When children practice division, they learn how to break things into equal parts and understand the relationship between multiplication and division.

This reinforces their number sense, basically how they see and work with numbers in daily life.

It also helps them solve real-world problems.

Let’s say, they’re cutting a pizza into slices or figuring out how many cookies each friend gets, knowing how to divide makes it easier for them.

The most important thing is, it opens doors for advanced topics like fractions, ratios, and algebra later on grades.

Ina nutshell, division helps kids:

  • Increase their problem-solving abilities 
  • Build confidence in handling day to day calculations 
  • Improve their understanding of the world around them

Now that you know how important it is for our kids to practice division problems. Let’s talk solutions.

The best way I am able to get my students working on division practice is by using division riddles.

They keep kids focused on the task at hand and builds perseverance. 

How Division Riddles Works: 

You hand out one of the division riddles to your kids.

It could be a division fact or 2 by 1, 2 by 2  digit or 3 by 1 or 3 by 2 digit, whatever numbers you want your students to practice that day. 

Students start working on the problems and with every problem they unlock a key (letter) that is part of the mystery riddle they are solving.

The clues are unlocked randomly to make it more interesting and exciting for the kids.

Division Riddles Worksheets and Activities 3rd 4th 5th grade elementary kids fun division practice sheets

Once they have solved all the problems the answer to the mystery is revealed.

This gamified way of practicing division makes it less intimidating for the students and helps them gain confidence in their math skills.

Few ways to use Division Riddles inside classroom:

We all love activities that are versatile and can be used in multiple ways inside our classroom.

Here are a few ways you can use a Riddle activity 

  • Partner work
  • Home work
  • Centers or rotation
  • Review or practice work
  • Or anytime you want to have something FUN 

By the way if you are looking for 2 and 3 digit by 1 digit long division practice worksheets for your upper elementary students? 

Check out the division riddles resource on my TPT shop and let your kids have fun while learning at the same time.

Division Riddles Worksheets and Activities 3rd 4th 5th grade elementary kids fun division practice sheets-pin

Looking for more tips on 5th grade math teaching checkout this Blog post on 5th grade year round math activities.

Similar Posts

  • Back-to-School Math Activities That Set the Tone for the Year

    Do you feel like the first few weeks of school are a wild ride, between building relationships, establishing routines, and trying to remember 35+ student names, it’s easy for math review to get thrown on the back burner. 

    But here’s the thing: if you don’t intentionally set the tone for math from day one, your students won’t either for the rest of the year.

    And that’s NOT something I want happening in my classroom. Nope, neither should you.

    📌 Save this post for later – Pin it to your favorite math board!

    So instead of using boring math worksheets or overwhelming diagnostic tests, I use engaging skill based no prep math activities that help me review what they forgot over summer without making them cry.

    Here are a few of my go to back to school math activities that review key skills AND get your students excited about learning again.

    Activity #1: Color by Number for Math Facts Review

    This one’s a classroom favorite — every time. I use them throughout the year in so many ways. 

    I start the year by reviewing basic math operations like addition subtraction multiplication and division of multi digit numbers. The best way to do this is using color by number math printables that review these core basics. 

    The coloring math pages aren’t just fun, but a low-pressure way that gives me an instant idea about where my students’s math skills are.

    You might be thinking why would math coloring work?

    Multiplication Facts Fluency Color by number and maze activity that are self checking

    Because it’s quiet, focused, and low-prep (aka teacher sanity saver). 

    Kids feel successful and relaxed, even if they’re rusty. Most of all, they work across all levels, not just adjust basic math skills!

    Here is my go to back to school math activities that I use over and over again:

    These let me see exactly who remembers their facts, and who’s gonna need support.

     Activity #2: Math Riddles for Skill Review & Confidence Boost

    Math + humor = WIN.

    After summer brain drain, many kids feel nervous about math. That’s why I love using math riddles during the first few weeks of school.

    They’re engaging, self-checking, and build serious confidence, especially for students who typically shut down during more traditional practice.

    What matters most is that it keeps them engaged longer, not just because of the math itself, but because the suspense of solving the riddle holds their attention and keeps them going without frustration.

    Fun addition subtraction multiplication and division riddles printable math worksheets for 3rd 4th and 5th grade

    And guess what? There’s actual research to support this. 

    A study published in the Journal PRIMUS found that using logic puzzles, riddles and brain teasers in math practice can significantly boost student motivation and learning outcomes.

    Riddles work perfectly for partners or independent work and initiate discussions that kids might not otherwise have.

    Want a ready-to-use set of math riddles to kick off the year?

    Check out these back to school math activities and riddle worksheets that reviews key math skills — no prep needed. 

    Activity #3: Partner Puzzle Challenges

    Honestly, the first week of school is not the time to hit them with a textbook. 

    It’s time to build connections, make them curious, and ease them into structure without stress.

    One of my favorite ways to do that is by using partner puzzle math activities to review the concepts. 

    For that, I pair students up to complete a math puzzle in collaboration with their partner. Why?

    Because not only does it build classroom community, but it also gets them talking, collaborating, and thinking critically from day one, which is super important.

    The key is using something that’s Skill-focused (so it’s not just fluff) and self-checking (because you’ve got 1,000 other things to manage).

    Fraction addition and subtraction with unlike denominator mystery picture puzzles 5th and 6th grade math activities

    You can use something like picture puzzles. Want to know how they work?

    Students solve fraction operations problems (add, subtract, multiply, divide), then match their answers to reveal a hidden picture. 

    They work in pairs, double-check each other’s math, and get excited when the image starts to appear. It’s like math + art + problem-solving rolled into one, and YES, they’ll actually ask for more when they finish.

    For middle school grades, I use this Fraction Operations Mystery Picture Puzzle during week one or two when we start reviewing fraction skills from 5th grade. It’s the perfect soft entry back into multi-step problems, especially for students who are a little rusty.

    Activity #4: Fun Independent Review Packets

    As we transition out of back-to-school dread and into “real curriculum,” I use independent review packets to bridge my kid’s concept gaps.

    I choose 1-2 skills per day (ex: decimal addition, then subtraction the next day) and give them a page daily for 5–10 minutes to warm up their math brains.

    5th grade math independent work packets for morning work or warm ups

    You can even use independent packets to build your own year long review packets.

    Activity #5: Digital Pixel Art Activities

    By week two, most of us are already juggling tech rollouts, login issues, and trying to figure out how to squeeze actual math teaching into a packed schedule.

    Digital pixel art activities are my go to when I want students using Chromebooks productively without me having to monitor them.

    They’re self-checking, skill-based, and fun as hell.

    Basically, students solve problems, and a hidden picture gradually appears based on their answers. It’s like gaming, but for math review.

    Here’s what I use them during back-to-school:

    1 – Place Value Pixel Art for Early Review

    5th grade digital pixel art activity to review place value concepts and back to school diagnostics test

    Skill focus: Place value — perfect to revisit those rusty number sense skills from 4th grade
    When I use it: the first full week of school
    Why it works:

    • It’s digital, but doesn’t need fancy platforms
    • Instant feedback means students stay engaged
    • It’s great for centers, independent work, or as a tech-day activity 

    2 – End-of-Year Review Pixel Art (YES, at the Beginning!)

    You might think this one’s just for May — but I use it during back-to-school season, too.

    Why? Because it’s super easy to preview what’s coming and get a quick pulse on what they actually remember from the previous grade.

    5th grade digital pixel art activity to review 5th grade math concepts and back to school diagnostics test

    It uses task cards + digital pixel art, which means engagement + data for YOU.

    Still looking for a Free Back-to-School Math Activity? I’ve bundled one of my favorite color-by-number worksheets + math review printable into a free pack for you to download.

    Use it on day one or during your first week of review to get students back into the math mindset without stress or busywork.

    Want the More Back-to-School Math Center Activities?

    Grab this Back-to-School Math Bundle that is 75% off and includes:

    • Fun, low-prep math pintables
    • Skill-based review for all 4 basic operations and more
    • Engaging printables like color by number, riddles, and puzzles

    Right now this mega bundle is 75% off For Full Fun and Engaging Math Centers all Year Long.

    Back-to-school season doesn’t have to be chaos. With the right math activities, the ones that are fun, focused, and functional, you’ll start your year with students who are engaged, confident, and ready to learn.

    Skip the overwhelm. Get these exciting activities, and go enjoy teaching your class.

    Happy Teaching… Sadia

  • | |

    Fall Math Worksheets and Activities for 3rd – 5th Grade

    As the leaves change, so can your math lessons! 

    Fall gives us teachers the perfect opportunity to engage students with fun, fall themed math activities that build excitement for learning inside classrooms. 

    Fall Fun Worksheets and Activities for 4th and 5th grade

    For me seasonal math not only brings a fresh twist inside classroom for kids, but it also give me some change to use fun activities to keep my upper elementary kids engaged with unique activities that are different but perfectly with the curriculum. 

    Here are some way I have found helpful to bring the spirit of autumn into my math lessons to keep students motivated and excited to learn.

    Why Use Fall-Themed Math Activities?

    Once the back-to-school buzz goes away, students may start to lose some of the enthusiasm they had in the first few weeks of school. 

    This can be challenging to maintain that level of energy in the classroom as the routine sets in. 

    And tis is where seasonal activities come in handy and exciting to keep them engaged and ansurprised to work on their task! 

    Fall-themed math activities can help apture student’s attention and re-energize their will to keep their math learning moving forward.

    These activities not only make lessons fun but also ensure students are still practicing critical math skills in an engaging way.

    Upper Elementary Fall Math Activities you Should Try this Year:

    Here are some of you can use activities to help your 3rd 4th or even 5th grade students get into the Fall spirit while practicing essential math concepts:

    Fall-Themed Solve-the-Room Activities

    Fall fraction and decimal operation activity 5th grade and upper elementary grades

    This activity can transform your classroom into a dynamic learning environment. Students will move around the room, solving math problems with a fall spirit.

    Activities like these are perfect for keeping students active while making sure they’re reviewing their key math concepts, such as Decimal and fraction operations or even math facts.

    Fall Color-by-Number Worksheets

    Ahhh! Who does not like some coloring to go along with their math centers and daily practice?

    Color by number worksheets combine creativity with math practice to keep them on their learning journey and reduce their learning fatigue at the same time. 

    Honestly this alone is like a win win situation for me. 

    Every time I take out one of these Coloring sheets kids are just excited and motivated to work on them. 

    What’s most important is there are jut 8 problems they need to solve instead of bajillions just to get them to the coloring part.

    This is the reason why they are more motivated to work on this single page coloring math sheets.

    Here is how it works: Students will solve math problems and then use their answers to complete fall-themed coloring pages. 

    It’s a great activity for early finishers or as a calming task during busy classroom days which is a plus.

    Fall Math Scavenger Hunt

    Did you just said hunt? I think math reviews do not have to be boring? 

    Using this fraction scavenger hunt activity this Fall and turn you class in to a Scavenger Hunt adventure that your kids would love to be in.

    Students solve math problems while following clues around the room. It’s an engaging way to review concepts and encourage teamwork.

    And the best part is, it’s self checking so less work for you but more fun for them. 

    Fall Fractions and Decimal Operations – Mystery Picture Puzzle!

    Tired of searching for an engaging and fun way to help your 5th-grade students master fractions and decimal operations? 

    Maybe try out some mystery picture puzzle math activities.

    Using the Fall Fractions and Decimal Operations Picture Puzzle is the perfect way to practice math and increase creativity to keep your students motivated and excited on learning their fractions concepts.

    These puzzles gives students the opportunity to solve fractions and decimal problems while slowing revealing a fall-themed picture. 

    Whether you’re looking for a way to reinforce lessons on adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and decimals or simply want to add an interactive twist to your math centers, this activity does it all!

    How to Implement It

    This resource is dynamic and easy to use into your classroom. You can use it as:

    • A fun, no-prep fall math center
    • A homework assignment to reinforce what was taught in class.
    • An engaging review activity before an upcoming test.
    • A small group activity for collaborative learning.

    How to have Fall-Themed Math Spirit in the Classroom

    Using fall-themed classroom activities and resources into your lessons is easy, and literally there are so many creative ways to do it! 

    Engaging Fall addition subtraction multiplication division math powerpoint game activities for 3rd 4th and 5th grade kids

    Here are a few ideas from me to get you started:

    • Create Fall-Themed Math Centers: Yup that’s the first one. You need to set up multiple fall-themed stations in your classroom where students can rotate between different activities, like the Fall Solve-the-Room or Color-by-Number sheets. This gives kids diverse options and allows students to work independently or in small groups.
    • Use for Early Finishers or Warm-Up Activities: These activities are perfect for students who finish their work early or for a quick and engaging warm-up to get everyone focused on math first thing in the morning.
    • Fall Decor for Extra Fun: This one is a must! Decorate your classroom with fall leaves, pumpkins, and other seasonal visual elements. Then, use these resources as part of a fall-themed math review or even a class competition!

    By using these fun ideas, you’re not only bringing fall into the classroom but also boosting students’ enthusiasm for math.

    To bring the magic of fall into your math lessons. You will be able to watch your students’ willingness to work on their classwork soar, the big idea is to use multiple Fall themed elements in your day and your kids will thank you for all that you do for them.

    Ready to add some seasonal fun to your math lessons?

    Check out our Fall Math Activities on my TPT store Daily Dose of Mathematics store!

  • |

    7 Valentine’s Day Math Activities for 5th Graders

    So you have taught fractions unit to your 5th grade kids…Now what?

    There are many ways you can keep your students practicing there fractions skill this valentines without feeling overwhelm.

    This Valentine’s Day get your 5th graders math game strong by using meaningful activities that help them practice various math skills they have already learnt.

    one thing I would advice before starting is do not just make this season all about hearts and candies use it as a perfect opportunity to get your kids more engaged in math fun!

    So if your goal is to engage your students with math fun… interactive math activities both print and digital is the way to go.

    But before we get started a quick reminder, if you need free math activities and worksheets to try with your 5th grade kids, join the newsletter and get them delivered straight to your inbox!

    Now let the fun began, here are seven exciting math activities that will help your 5th grader’s attention and get them to practice key mathematical skills.

    1. Mystery Picture Puzzles

    Want to practice multi digit addition and subtraction with regrouping but do not want it to be a boring activity? Mystery picture puzzles are the best way to do it while making it a fun interactive activity.

    Your kids will practice their 2 and 3 digit addition and subtraction skills by solving these problems and putting together the puzzle pieces to reveal the picture.

    Because look – we math teachers need to know what kids know and what needs more practicing so we can keep our math class more interesting.

    So if there is any activity that I can use with my kids to practice their basic operations skills while solving and building a puzzle, I’m am here for it.

    How it works:

    Prints out the puzzle worksheet and hand it over to the kids. Let them cut the puzzle pieces on the right side.

    Once that’s done let them solve and put the mystery pictures together to reveal the picture.

    Valentines Day 3rd 4th multi digit grade addition and subtraction with regrouping picture puzzle activity worksheets

    As your students complete the puzzle and uncover the picture you can even instruct them to color it and make it a fun art piece for their classroom bulletin board decoration.

    Key Skills this activity helps kids with:

    • Problem-solving
    • Attention to detail
    • Addition and Subtraction fluency

    2. Color by Numbers

    When it comes to practicing math facts especially multiplication and division some things are easier than others. And honestly coloring math activities is like one of those things.

    For my kids multiplication and division are the skills that they need more practice with than anything else.

    And to tell you the truth it is better to get them to practice these skills more during their upper elementary years more so it’s easier for them to build other math concepts during their middle school years.

    This is the exact reason why I have whole year themed multiplication and division color by number activities.

    That mainly focuses on multi digits like 2 or 3 digits multiplication and division practice.

    The best part is each page has just enough math problems for kids to complete in a day making it a perfect addition to your daily math lesson.

    Here is how it works: Kids use the back of the page to solve the problem. Each problem has 2 answer options along with the color they need to use to color the picture.

    Students solve and select the right option and work on there coloring part of the activity.

    Does this sound boring? Nope. Click here to see Valentine’s Day color by number on my TPT shop.

    3. Independent Work Pack

    Need a comprehensive 5th grade math activity pack that students can complete independently. Include:

    • Word problems
    • Word search puzzles
    • Matching activities

    Benefits:

    • Self-paced learning
    • Skill reinforcement
    • Develops mathematical independence

    4. Pixel Art Digital Valentines Day Resource

    I do not know about you but I still feel like I haven’t fully got the hang of using digital activities in my class.

    Honestly to leverage technology to get kids practicing math concepts like fractions addition and subtraction with unlike denominator is a bit mess but we are getting though it using Pixel Art Google Sheets(TM) activities.

    I assign my students thise activity on their devices and they solve math problems to reveal a pixel art Valentine’s design. The more kids solve the problem right the more picture is revealed which is super FUN!

    So if you need a digital valentines day fraction operations resource check out the link to my TPT shop. Its fun, its engaging and most of all its self checking so kids get immediate feedback.

    5. Fraction Heart Puzzles

    Puzzles puzzles and some more puzzles. I you one for the people who hear about differentiation or centers in meetings and are excited to try new thing to make it work then this one is for you.

    Puzzles are the best part of my centers. Although they take up a little bit of time to prep but its so worth the effort.

    Kids not only have to solve the problem but also find the answer to complete their puzzles making it a perfect game based activity to try during math centers.

    The best part… it’s free!

    But if those same puzzles are heart shaped fractions problems that’s even better. You can check them here.

    6. Valentine’s Day FREE Solve the Room

    This my friend is what I ALWAYS do when I do not have anything planned for the day and need something quick to engage but still keep them learning.

    The idea is simple you write math problems on task cards and display them at various points in your classroom.

    Kids walk around the room and solve the problems on the recording sheets.

    They feel engaged and fun. Not sticking to their chairs and able to walk around is what makes this activity one of my ids favorite thing.

    And honestly, I do not blame them. So if you want to transform your classroom into an interactive collaborating math learning place try out math solve the room activities.

    7. Valentines Day Fraction Worksheets

    We all use worksheets to put the practice kids need to improve their understanding.

    In fact, who does not like to use worksheets to make learning fun with Valentine’s-themed images so kids are more likely to solve them and not feel bored?

    These Valentine’s Day math worksheets go beyond traditional worksheets by offering engaging, interactive ways to practice their math skills.

    By using themes of love, you are helping students see math as an exciting, enjoyable subject.

    How do you make learning fun during valentine’s day? Let me know in the comments!

    Want to get access to exclusive FREE content? Sign up for the newsletter below!

    Once you sign up, you’ll receive the freebies to help you teach elementary math!

  • How to Explain Integers and Their Opposites to Students (Without the Confusion)

    If integers make your students’ eyes roll, you’re not alone. Integers and their opposites, especially negative numbers, can feel abstract and confusing.

    This is where students start mixing up subtraction with “opposites” or struggle to see how positive and negative numbers relate. 

    The good news? With the right visuals and activities, integers don’t have to be this overwhelming. 

    In fact, you can make them click for students in a way that actually sticks.

    1. Start with Real-Life Examples

    The fastest way to make integers feel less intimidating in grade 6 is to ground them in everyday life. A few examples that always land with my students are:

    • Temperature: Show how 10° above zero and 10° below zero represent opposites.
    • Elevation: Compare a mountain peak to a cave below sea level.
    • Money: Talk about having $20 in your bank account versus owing $20.

    The goal here is to make the concept more relatable using the example, so the students can connect faster. 

    You can even ask them to share their own examples, maybe like sports scores or video game points going into the negative.

    Integers and Their Opposites activities and pdf worksheets with number line practice

    2. Use a Number Line for Integers and their Opposites

    A number line is the foundation for understanding integers. You should first focus on making sure students understand integers using a number line. 

    When students see numbers laid out visually, they notice the symmetry: every positive number has a negative counterpart that is at the same distance from zero.

    • Highlight how +5 and -5 “mirror” each other.
    • Reinforce the idea that zero is the center, it’s neutral ground, so its negative is also 0.
    • Use visuals (a giant number line taped on the floor works wonders).

    This method makes integers less of an abstract idea and more of a pattern they can see and interact with. 

    3. Introduce Integer Opposites as “Math Twins”

    Kids love simple, fun language. Try describing opposites as math twins:

    • +3 and -3 are twinssame distance, different sides of zero.
    • Use hand motions: one hand moves right, the other moves left.
    • Have students physically “be the numbers” by standing on either side of a taped zero line in the classroom.

    This builds a physical connection, visualizes the concept and gets them out of their seats (which is always a win).

    4. Make it Interactive (Coloring + Games)

    Here is the thing: students learn best when they do. Practicing is the key to success in math. Bring integers to life with:

    • Coloring activities where each answer reveals a picture.
    • Matching games: pair positives with their opposites.
    • Scavenger hunts: hide cards around the room and let students find “integer pairs.”
    Integers and Their Opposites activities and pdf worksheets with number line practice

    So if you want a ready to use resource that saves you prep time, I created a set of integer activities and coloring worksheets designed exactly for this concept. 

    They turn practice into a fun activity while reinforcing integer opposites in an interactive way.

    Integers and Their Opposites activities and pdf worksheets with number line practice

    5. Common Mistakes Students Make

    Even after a lot of practice and explaining with strong visuals, some misconceptions pop up again and again: Here is a list of a few that I encounter again anad again:

    • Mixing up subtraction with opposites: For this, clarify that “the opposite of +4 is -4,” but “subtracting 4” is a different operation.
    • Thinking zero has an opposite: Reinforce that zero is its own buddy it has no opposite.
    • Believing negatives are always “smaller”: Explain that while -10 is less than -2, the distance from zero tells us size in terms of opposites.

    Take a few minutes to address these early, and you’ll prevent bigger struggles in later concepts.

    6. Wrap It Up 

    Teaching integers doesn’t have to be a headache for you or your students. 

    By combining real-life examples, number lines, and interactive activities, you’ll help students finally see opposites in a way that sticks.

    Want to save yourself even more prep time? 

    Grab my Integers and Their Opposites Coloring Worksheets on TPT. You can even find interactive activities for GCF and LCM here. They’re ready-to-go, fun for students, and designed to make integers simple instead of stressful.

    And if you’d like even more freebies for your math classroom, join my email list, where I share grab-and-go resources like fraction operations for busy math teachers like you.

  • |

    3 Digit Addition Problems Worksheets For Practicing Addition

    Looking for a 3 digit addition problem worksheets to practice 3 digit addition or subtraction with your students? Look no more because I got you covered.

    Helping students work on word problems is a daunting task.

    Especially if you are trying to encourage them to think independently on math problems and solve them on their own.

    That is why I have created these fun and engaging 3 digit word problem worksheets that are free for you to grab and teach now.

    [Click here to download.]

    3 Digit Addition problems worksheets
    3 Digit Addition & Subtraction Word Problems

    Here is how it works.


    Signup for the freebies and download the file.

    Inside this freebie, you have 3 digit word problems on addition and subtraction. Besides word problems, it also contains no prep 3-digit mixed addition and subtraction problem worksheets.

    Print the problems you want your students to work on and hand them to your class. Students can solve the word problems independently, or you can help them complete the task.

    What I like to do in my class is put them in pairs. This way, even if one of the kids gets stuck, they can help each other out and figure out the solution.

    Here are a few benefits of using 3-digit word problems worksheets in your classroom

    • Increase in reasoning and problem solving skills
    • More understanding of the topic by using comprehension skills
    • Able to break down more significant concepts into small problems
    3 Digit Addition problems worksheets
    3 Digit Addition & Subtraction Worksheets


    Tips to make 3 digit addition problems fun and effective in your classroom

    Here are a few ideas you can implement to make word problems an effective and fun activities in your classroom

    • Solve at least one word problem daily to develop the muscle
    • Make it fun
    • Provide feedback
    • Easier to introduce differentiation

    If you are looking for ways to make 3 digit word problems more fun, here is your opportunity to try these FREE 3 digit word problems in your classroom.

    Hopefully, this will give you enough to practice 3 digit addition using worksheets to keep your kids engaged and excited.

    Do you have any activities that you use in your classroom for addition word problems?

  • |

    How can teaching math be made easy and interesting for elementary students?

    As a math teacher with various grade levels teaching experience, I know the struggle math teachers face in their day to day life. Your days are undoubtedly filled with various responsibilities, from strategizing your lessons and managing your classroom to caring for your families. Finding the time and energy to create engaging and effective teaching environments and lessons can be challenging!

    This is why I have created this blog post to help teachers like you with the tools and resources you need in order to ensure your students master math while you have more time for yourself and your loved ones.

    Why should you help your students in learning maths?

    As teachers, I know your first priority is to help your kids master the subject with ease. This is the mere reason why I am excited to share all my valuable findings with you.
    All math teaching strategies to help you make an impact on students learning and foster independent problem solving and critical thinking in your students.

    By implementing these strategies effectively, you can inspire a love for math and develop confidence in their abilities, which is what we all strive for as educators.

    How should you think about these math learning abilities in kids:

    Learning to solve math is very important for our kids’ everyday lives and a country’s growth. All those students that are good at math perform better in STEM fields which are very important in this information and technology driven digital era.

    This is why it is important for schools to help kids develop their mathematical abilities. In recent studies, experts have found that one of the reasons our young learners do not perform well in maths is because math teachers simply don’t have enough knowledge of their subject.

    This could be a direct result of the old-fashioned teaching methods still used in schools.

    One way to fix this problem is by developing your student’s metacognitive skills. This helps them better equip themselves to solve their own problems not only in maths but in life.

    How to implement this in your teaching practices:

    Helping your students develop their metacognitive skills is a tedious task. But being a class facilitator to goal during your teaching would be to help them develop their own thinking for every problem that they encounter.

    Let’s say your students are working through an area and perimeter of composite figures of project. They can check their understanding of the project by calculating what’s required for the task at hand. Now for every problem that they come across during practicing they should be able to plan it out and then check if the plan works. This type of thinking helps them develop the cognitive skills required to solve complex math problems.

    The more your students are able to reflect, plan, and evaluate the math problem at hand the better their understanding gets with time. This is why I like to use math projects riddles and mysteries with my students during my class.

    Strategies to help your kids learn math in an interesting way:
    Here are some math teaching strategies to help kids learn math faster and more easily:

    1. Make it Relevant:

    It is a powerful strategy in math education that aims to give students some real world experience in their math learning. Through this strategy the educator aims to bridge gap between abstract concepts and real scenarios application, which deepens the students understanding.

    Elementary students are in the age group where they are naturally curious about their environment, so connecting math to their everyday lives captivates their interest and sparks more motivation in them.

    In traditional math teaching, students are made to memorize the concept and formulas without any practical understanding. This approach keeps them wondering about the purpose of their math learning beyond the classroom. However, by making math relevant to their environment and everyday life, teacher’s have the opportunity to show how math is an integrated part of our everyday life, from simple to complex discoveries.

    Ways to implement:

    One way to implement this is using math problems such as calculating discounts during shopping or measuring ingredients during cooking so students can immediately see the practical usage of their abilities.

    Such hands on experience solidifies your kid’s understanding of math concepts and boosts their confidence. You can even integrate math with other subjects showing its interconnection with other disciplines.


    For example in science students can use mathematical formulas to understand the laws of motion, or in arts, they explore geometrical shapes and symmetry. This type of understanding nurtures a holistic approach to their learning.

    In conclusion, this strategy is an essential pillar in math education. It  ignites curiosity, foster engagement, and equips learners with the skills they need to tackle real-world challenges with confidence and proficiency.

    As students recognize the practical relevance of math, they are more likely to approach the subject with enthusiasm and become lifelong learners and problem-solvers.

    2. Hands on learning: 

    This strategy involves using physical objects, manipulatives and interactive activities to teach math concepts. Students interact, measure and manipulate the objects to understand abstract ideas more concretely. For instance, using counting blocks to illustrate addition and subtraction or using shapes to teach geometry. This approach caters to different learning styles, making math more accessible and enjoyable.

    making math easy and fun for every one

    3. Problem-Solving Approach:

    The problem-solving approach nurtures students’ critical thinking and analytical skills. Instead of relying on rote memorization, kids are presented with real-world problems that require applying mathematical concepts to find solutions. So if we can encourage them to reason through problems and instill a deeper understanding of math, this will equip them with valuable skills beyond the classroom.

    4. Games and Puzzles:

    Honestly, math games and puzzles make learning math enjoyable and engaging. For my kids, these create a fun learning environment where students can practice math concepts while having fun.

    Games can range from board games that reinforce basic arithmetic to online math challenges that promote strategic thinking. What is most interesting to see is the element of competition between peers. It motivates students to actively participate and reinforce their learning.

    5. Personalized Learning:

    This strategy focuses that students have different learning paces and needs. As teachers we must adapt to cater to individual needs, offering extra support or advanced challenges based on each student’s abilities. This approach builds a positive learning experience, boosts confidence, and helps students reach their full potential.

    6. Visual Representations:

    Visual representations use graphs, charts, diagrams, and drawings to illustrate math concepts. It enhances comprehension and memory retention, especially for complex topics. Visualizing information helps students make connections between abstract ideas and concrete examples.

    7. Real-life Problem-solving:

    Connecting math to real-life situations makes the subject more meaningful and relevant to students. By presenting math as a tool to solve practical problems, such as budgeting, measurements for a classroom project, or understanding patterns in nature, students can see its importance in their daily lives and future careers.

    8. Positive Reinforcement:

    Positive reinforcement involves praising and acknowledging students’ efforts and achievements. Recognizing their progress and hard work promotes a positive attitude toward math. Positive reinforcement builds confidence and motivates students to continue learning and exploring math concepts.

    9. Peer Learning:

    Peer learning encourages students to work collaboratively, discuss concepts, and solve problems. This explaining math to peers helps to reinforce understanding and different perspectives which gives new insights. This cooperative learning environment motivates them to develop effective communication skills and teamwork, both of which are valuable in and beyond math class.

    Educators can create a supportive and stimulating learning environment by incorporating these strategies into math teaching, helping students learn math more effectively and enjoyably. Each strategy complements the others, contributing to a comprehensive and well-rounded math education for young learners.

    Join in to get special FREEBIES and Insider’s FUN!