Are you excited for the new year? I am so ready to start fresh and jump in feet first. I absolutely LOVE January and the start of all things new (and it doesn’t hurt that it’s my birthday, too! ;)). If you’re excited to try a new daily math approach this January, you’ve come to the right place. This set of easy, low prep math calendars is a great way to work on important math skills. Kids love the daily challenge, and you will love how easy and motivating they are! Read on to learn about the January Math Problem of the Day Calendars, and how to get a copy for your home or classroom.

*Please Note: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links which help support the work of this site. Read our full disclosure policy here.*

January Problem of the Day Calendars:

Not sure what these calendars are all about? This FREE download includes 3 one page, black and white calendars for the month of January. One calendar for grades K-2, one calendar for grades 3-5 and one calendar for grades 6-8.

Each day of the month includes a math problem, covering a huge variety of math skills.

>>>The fun twist? Each day, the solution is equal to the date!

This makes them self-checking, so kids can know whether or not they’ve solved it correctly, and can make corrections if necessary.

This may also mean that some kids will try to write the answer without actually solving the problem. I’ve got some ways to help prevent that though!

Ways to Use the Math Problem of the Day Calendar:

1. One way to use this is as a simple, daily warm up. This can be during morning time, as soon as kids come into class, or during your daily calendar time.

Allow kids to work out the solution independently and then discuss it as a group.

2. If you have kids who are likely to skip the math and just write the day’s date, require them to write out their thinking for how they solved it.

This would be an easy way to incorporate a daily math journal time.

3. Or you could simply use the daily problem as a class discussion starter and talk through different ways to solve it.

Once one child explains or shows how they can solve it, ask someone else to solve it differently.

4. Another really fun way to mix things up is to cut the calendar into pieces and have your kids solve it like a puzzle.

Print out a blank calendar page, and as they solve the problems they can glue them onto the correct dates on the calendar.

This will also eliminate the temptation to write the solution without actually doing the work.

**Quick Note: If you and your students love these calendars, you can buy the full year sets at the links below. A new *update* for 2026 is that each month now includes 2 calendars: one shown here, where the solution is equal to the date, and one where the problems are scrambled and not equal to the date. These versions are only available in the full year calendar sets.**

Topics Covered on the January 2026 Problem of the Day Calendars:

Grades K-2 Problem of the Day Calendar Topics:

• Addition and subtraction
• Money (U.S.)
• Time
• Comparing numbers
• Word problems
• Place value
• Math vocabulary

Buy the Complete K-2 Calendar Set HERE!

Grades 3-5 Problem of the Day Calendar Topics:

• Place value
• Addition and subtraction of 3-4 digit numbers
• Multiplication and division
• Long division (new)
• Adding fractions (like denominator)
• Elapsed time
• Word problems (1 and 2-step)
• Area and perimeter
• Math vocabulary

Buy the Complete 3-5 Calendar Set HERE!

Grades 6-8 Problem of the Day Calendar Topics:

• Multiplication and division
• Operations with fractions and decimals
• Exponent properties
• Order of operations
• Solving linear equations
• Area and perimeter
• Surface area and volume
• Math vocabulary
• Word problems

An additional challenge included on the middle school calendar (level 3) are “create your own” problems. Occasionally, rather than a given problem, kids are asked to create a math problem with a given solution.

This helps them think about the math they’re learning at a higher level, and gives them the chance to challenge their friends.

Buy the Complete 6-8 Calendar Set HERE!

So I hope you and your kids love these calendars as much as I do, and if you have any other fun or unique ways to incorporate them into your daily school routine, shoot me an email to share!

{Click HERE to go to my shop and grab the FREE January Problem of the Day Calendars!}

More Fun Winter Math Ideas:

• Build a Snowman Place Value Set
• Snow Day Math Outside
• Create a Snowflake Fractal
• Hot Chocolate Math Investigation
• Winter Solve & Color Addition Pages
• I Spy Winter Counting Booklet

The post January 2026 Problem of the Day Calendars {FREE} appeared first on Math Geek Mama.

Geometry in middle school opens up a world of exploration, giving students tools to understand shapes, space, and dimensions—all essential for visual problem-solving. Instead of boring worksheets, hands-on and creative problem solving tasks make these concepts much more engaging and will help with retention. Once students hit middle school, they move beyond simply naming & composing shapes.

Geometry topics cover everything from shape properties and angle relationships to calculating areas, perimeters, and volumes of 2D and 3D figures, as well as applying the Pythagorean Theorem. Building a strong grasp of these topics is crucial for students’ math confidence–and they’ll have more fun while learning!

If you’re ready to explore geometry in engaging, visual and hands-on ways, check out the full list of resources & ideas below. Resources are organized by math concept, making it easier to scan and find what you need.

14 Middle School Geometry Ideas & Resources:

To begin, take a look at some measurement activities, focusing on area, perimeter & circumference with 2D shapes, then find ideas for exploring measurements with 3D shapes.

Exploring 2D Shapes Activities: Understanding Shapes, Measurements & Angles

Explore 2D Shapes with Geoboards: When you’re ready to begin your geometry unit, start by creating, analyzing & calculating with shapes on a geoboard. In this post, you’ll find simple ideas to get started, along with free activity cards.

Explore Triangles with Geoboards & “The Greedy Triangle”: Want to help students understand triangles more deeply (including the triangle inequality theorem)? Create & compare triangles on a geoboard!

Exploring the Angles in Triangles: Dive deeper into triangle relationships as students cut up & measure triangles to discover some amazing triangle theorems.

Area of a Circle Exploration: Ready to dive into circle measurements? This hands-on, visual lesson combines a visual circle with a graphing calculator to consider what the area of a circle really means.

“Pass the Pi” Investigation of the Number Pi: Whether you are exploring circle measurements or just looking for a “Pi Day” activity, this lesson is a great way for students to discover the relationship between the circumference & diameter of a circle.

How Tall is a Building? Indirect Measurement Lesson: Lastly, once your students have learned about similar triangles, a great application is indirect measurement. In this activity, students are guided through using indirect measurement to find the height of their school building.

Exploring 3D Shapes Activities: Nets, Surface Area & Volume

Once students have a solid understanding of 2D shapes & their measurements, it’s time to move to 3D shapes. This opens up a new set of math to explore, and using hands-on discovery activities not only makes math more fun, it will help students better grasp the concepts.

Foldable 3D Shape Nets: Before you can begin measuring & calculating with 3D shapes, you have to understand the shapes themselves! I usually start by allowing students to decorate & fold their own set of 3D shapes using these nets, which we can then refer back to throughout our study of 3D shape properties & measurements.

Explore the Surface Area of Prisms & Cylinders: This hands on activity helps students connect the surface area to the area of each face & come up with their own formula.

Explore the Surface Area of Pyramids & Cones: This activity takes students a step further to explore pyramids & cones & how they are different from prisms.

Which Cup will Hold the Most Hot Chocolate?  As an introduction to the volume of cylinders, you might try this interesting question. This is a great warm-up and an opportunity for students to think about how the width and height affect volume.

Explore the Volume of Prisms & Cylinders: Once again, this activity is hands-on, allowing students to see & discover volume themselves, and make sense of how it differs from surface area.

Exploring Pythagorean Theorem: Hands-On Activities & Real Life Application

Lastly, if your 8th graders are ready to learn all about Pythagorean Theorem & how it can help solve real life math problems involving right triangles. Once they’ve proven, understood and mastered this theorem, they will be ready for more complex calculations in high school geometry class!

Prove the Pythagorean Theorem with LEGO Bricks: This hands-on activity will help students ‘see’ the theorem and understand what all the letters & measurements mean.

Pythagorean Theorem in the Real World: Find two different printable sets to help students actually use and apply this theorem in real life.

• 3 Real World Examples to Explore Pythagorean Theorem
• Pythagorean Theorem Word Problem Task Cards

I hope that gives you lots of engaging, hands-on & creative ways to make geometry come alive for your students! Don’t just list out formulas to memorize. Discover formulas, properties, theorems & more through play & exploration! Have FUN with these middle school geometry ideas!

Want more engaging & creative teaching ideas for your middle school students?

You might want to check out Math Geek Mama+, my all-access membership, which includes hundreds of ready to use materials for grades 5-8. There are even more geometry resources ready for you to download inside Math Geek Mama+.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MATH GEEK MAMA+ HERE.

The post 14 Creative Middle School Geometry Ideas {Tips & Free Resources!} appeared first on Math Geek Mama.

It never fails. Just when I feel students are confident graphing linear equations and have a clear understanding of how the table relates to the graph and the equation relates to slope and y-intercept, they freeze. At least one student will stare at the paper as if they’ve never seen a table or graph in their life. Then they’ll look at me like, “How in the world am I supposed to know what a slope is?!” Sigh.

If you occasionally get that “deer in headlights” look from students when they need to graph a linear equation, I hope you’ll enjoy this set of puzzles. Though they do require a little prep up front, you can keep them on hand for an easy math center or math station whenever you feel students need a ‘refresher.’

Graph Linear Equations Puzzles: Prep-Work

To begin, I recommend you print all 16 puzzles on card stock paper for durability.

NOTE: The first 8 puzzles include equations written in slope-intercept form. The last 8 puzzles can either be easily re-written in slope-intercept or they are written in standard form.

If your students are not ready for the more challenging equations yet, you can print the first 8 puzzles only.

Once printed, laminate the puzzles so you can use them again and again, then cut out the pieces of each puzzle. There are 3 pieces for each puzzle (an equation, a table and a graph).

Once all pieces and puzzles are cut out, mix them up really well and share with students!

Plus, to make checking the solutions super easy for you (or students!), a single page ‘quick check’ answer key is included of all 16 puzzles.

Print this page as well if you’d like to use it for a quick scan of their matches.

Ideas for Using the Linear Equation Puzzles in Class:

• Math Center: If you have regular math center or stations in your class, this makes a great center option.
• Choice Board: If you provide students with a choice board, you could include the puzzles as a choice board option.
• Small Groups: If you would like all students in the class to work on the puzzles together, you can create 3-4 sets of puzzles and they let students work in small groups to match the pieces and discuss together.
• Bulletin Board Display: Lastly, you can print the puzzles on plain white paper, cut out the pieces and scatter the tables/graphs around the room. Give each student (or pair of students) an equation and let them ‘hunt’ for the matching table and graph. Once you confirm they have a matching puzzle set, they can glue the completed puzzle onto construction paper to hang on a bulletin board or around your classroom.

If you’re looking for resources to teach & explore linear functions, check out Math Geek Mama+, our ad-free option that includes inquiry lessons, games, digital activities & more to help students make sense of algebra topics like this one.

Plus, you’ll find more engaging and easy to use math center ideas like this one!

LEARN MORE ABOUT MATH GEEK MAMA+ HERE

Ideas for Class Discussion of the Graphing Equations Puzzles:

The goal of this activity is to help students see the connections between an equation, a table and the graph of the equation. So ideally, this activity doesn’t end when students complete the puzzles. If possible, give time for students to share their thinking & strategies for finding matches.

Here are some additional discussion question ideas:

• Where do you see the intercepts in the table? On the graph?
• What is the slope? Where do you see the slope in the table? In the equation? On the graph?
• Would you say the graph is increasing or decreasing? Why?
• What does it mean to be a solution of the equation? Where do you see solutions in the table? On the graph?

Although this seems like a very simple activity, my hope is that it’s a springboard for meaning math conversations, connections and ‘light bulb’ moments for students.

Ready to grab this freebie for your classroom? Use the link below to head to my shop where you can get it free.

{Click HERE to go to my shop and grab the FREE Graph Linear Equations Puzzles Set!}

Looking for more ideas for teaching & exploring linear functions? Check out these:

• Graph Linear Equations: Cut & Paste Pages
• Solve Equations Error Analysis – DIGITAL
• Silly Christmas Riddles: Solve Linear Equations

The post {FREE} Graph Linear Equations Puzzles: Match Equation, Table & Graph appeared first on Math Geek Mama.

If you teach upper elementary or middle school, you are well aware of all the math standards related to decimals and decimal operations. If you are looking for decimal resources to help you teach in a way that builds conceptual understanding, the free resources here are for you!

But as teachers, we also know that practice makes permanent, so you will also find engaging games, low-prep practice, digital activities and more to help your students feel confident anytime they encounter a decimal number. The resources below are organized by math skill, allowing you to check out the decimal activities that meet your current teaching needs.

Click on any of the posts linked in each category below to read more about the activity or resource and grab a copy to use with your students.

Decimal Place Value or Compare Decimals Resources:

Understanding decimal numbers begins with a solid understanding of decimal place value. You’ll also find resources to visualize decimals on a number line, further helping students make sense of decimal values and how to compare/fit in with whole numbers.

From there, students can build their number sense as they compare different decimal values and even compare decimals to fractions.

Lastly, in 7th grade and beyond, students work with a broader range of rational numbers, so the compare rational number sorting activity includes decimals, repeating decimals, fractions and more.

Skittles Math: Place Value Mats: This hands on math activity will help students visualize decimal place value as they begin to make sense of decimals and compare numbers.

Multiply & Divide by Powers of Ten Game: Includes Exponents: This game also includes a place value mat, allowing students to use place value to make sense of multiplying/dividing by powers of ten (so they can see the digits shift, rather than the decimal point).

Even if your kids aren’t ready for the game or writing powers of ten with exponents, you can still use the place value mat to model decimal values and compare numbers.

Decimals on a Number Line Game that Kids LOVE!: This printable game is similar to ‘Battleship’ and is a great way for kids to pair up & see decimals on a number line.

Decimals on a Number Line: DIGITAL Activity for Kids: If you prefer a no-prep, paperless option, this digital drag & drop set of google slides provides practice placing decimal values on a number line.

Compare Decimals Cut & Paste Sort : This low-prep activity allows kids to compare decimal values and practice using the comparison symbols (>, <, =).

Compare Rational Numbers Sorting Challenge : This low-prep activity is similar to the one above, but includes more variety in the rational numbers. Students will compare decimal values, repeating decimals, fractions, integers, etc.

Add & Subtract Decimals Resources:

Once students have a solid place value foundation, they are ready to add and subtract with decimals. Even young kids can begin to add and subtract with decimals and they work with money. Adding money is the perfect real world context for students to start with because they are likely familiar with adding dollars and change.

In this section you will find articles with teaching ideas, real life math activities, hands-on resources and fun games to practice these skills.

How to Add Decimals: Simple Strategies & Tips: If you want to help students form a conceptual understanding of decimals and adding decimal values, this is a great place to start.

{FREE} Adding Decimals Worksheets: Multiple Strategies: To help students make sense of decimal addition, these simple practice pages include multiple strategies all on one page so students can see that whichever visual model or strategy they use, they should get the same answer.

Make a Buck: Unique Adding Decimals Card Game: This game is a fun way to practice those ‘mental math’ skills, and all you need is a deck of cards!

Cupcake Shop: Money Math Problems: This real life math activity is a fun way for students to see the importance of adding decimals in the real world as they find the cost of their cupcakes.

Adding & Subtracting Decimals Partner Challenge: Here’s another idea for helping students see multiple ways to add or subtract decimals and compare strategies.

Add & Subtract Decimals on a Number Line {FREE Printable Number Lines!}: This article explains the value of incorporating number lines to help students add and subtract and includes some free number line practice pages.

{FREE} Adding & Subtracting Decimals Game for Grades 4-6: This printable game would make a great math center when paired with a set of base ten blocks (although the blocks are optional).

Multiply & Divide Decimals Resources:

As always, before jumping straight to standard, traditional algorithms to multiply or divide, I encourage you to help students build on their conceptual understanding of multiplication and division. They can apply their knowledge of multiplication of whole numbers to decimals and see that the skill is not actually anything new or scary.

Incorporating visual models or real life contexts will help students visualize the math, deepen their understanding and make reasonable estimates as they solve problems involving decimals.

Find resources below to help your students understand decimal multiplication and decimal division.

Multiply Decimals with Grids: Cut & Paste Set: To help students visualize decimal multiplication (and see how it relates to multiplying whole numbers), this activity includes grid models for students to match.

Multiply Decimals Classroom Scavenger Hunt: This fun, whole class activity allows kids the chance to get up and move while practice this important skill.

Spin It! Multiplying Decimals Game for Kids: This printable board game would make a great math center that you can use again and again so kids don’t forget how to multiply decimals.

Multiply & Divide Decimals Word Problems Set: This set is a sample from my online course, Making Sense of Word Problems, and includes 27 different problems so students can see decimal multiplication and division in real life contexts.

{FREE} Multiply Decimals Mystery Maze: DIGITAL Activity: If you’re looking for no-prep practice, this digital activity is perfect and self-checking! Students are sure to enjoy this maze challenge.

Digital Pi Day Activity: Decimal Operations Word Problems: If you’re looking for a fun Pi Day activity that weaves in math skills practice, this digital set covers all 4 math operations with decimals.

Convert Between Decimals, Fractions and Percent Resources:

Older students move beyond place value and basic computation with decimals to converting between decimals, fractions and percentages.

This is an important skill because which form of a number is necessary or most beneficial will depend on the problem. This can also help students compare quantities in middle school, because often, converting fractions to decimals or percentages makes them easier to compare.

Below you will find simple games to provide additional practice with converting between fractions, decimals and percentages.

Convert Fractions to Decimals Game: Grades 4-6: This simple board game would make a great math center, allowing students to practice converting fractions to decimals.

Convert Fractions to Decimals & Percent Puzzles: This set of ‘pizza puzzles’ is another activity that you could use as a math center, or for early finishers. Students match equivalent fractions, decimals and percentages.

Valentine’s Day Color by Code: Equivalent Fractions & Decimals: This low-prep activity is a unique way to convert fractions to decimals and create a fun art project at the same time.

Valentine’s Day Fraction and Decimal Conversions Board Game: If you’d prefer something for a math center or small groups, this game is another option with a Valentine’s Day theme.

Hopefully there is something on this huge list that is *just right* for your students, but if not, check back later to see if new resources have been added!

Or you might want to check out Math Geek Mama+, my all-access membership, which includes hundreds of ready to use materials for grades 5-8. There are even more decimal resources ready for you to download inside Math Geek Mama+.

LEARN MORE ABOUT MATH GEEK MAMA+ HERE.

The post 20+ FREE Decimal Resources for Grades 4-6 appeared first on Math Geek Mama.

I find that a lot of textbooks barely skim the surface when it comes time to solve linear inequalities. After all, once students are comfortable solving linear equations, this is just more of the same, right? Wrong! Inequalities are more complex and have greater depth of meaning than equations, and although the algebra involved in solving them may look similar, it takes a lot of work to actually understand what’s going on. Plus, students have to know when to “flip the inequality symbol.” What does that even mean, and why do we do it? But once you’ve done the hard work of sense-making and students are ready to practice, grab these silly riddle pages for Low-Prep Solve Inequalities Practice.

Understanding the Solution to Inequalities:

One of the biggest differences between a linear equation and an inequality is the solution.

In both cases, the solution is the value(s) that make(s) the statement true.

However, most students are used to solving an equation in which exactly one number makes the equation true. (Yes, a linear equation can also have no solution or infinite solutions, but in early middle school students are solving an equation to find exactly one number that makes it true).

An inequality, on the other hand, will have a whole range of numbers that make the statement true.

For example, if the solution is x < 2, that means that the solution is not 2. The solution is ANY number that is less than 2. So it could be 1.9. It could be 0. It could be -100.

It’s important that as students solve inequalities they model the solution on a number line so they can visualize the entire set of numbers that makes the inequality true.

Although this set of riddles practice pages do not include number lines, you may want to have students sketch a number line next to each solution as well so they can show you they understand the solution and what set of numbers is part of the solution.

Solve Inequalities Practice Pages: Easy to Differentiate

This download includes 3 practice pages, gradually increasing in difficulty.

You will find the following inequalities to solve:

• Solve one-step inequalities (use with 6th or 7th grade)
• Solve two-step inequalities (use with 7th or 8th grade)
• Solve multi-step inequalities (use with 8th or 9th grade)

If you have students who are struggling or need to get back to the basics, start with the first page of one-step inequalities.

But if you have more advanced students who are ready for a challenge, let them try the multi-step page! This page includes variables on both sides of the inequality symbol as well as the distributive property.

Plus, as students solve each inequality they can self-check as they look for the solution at the bottom of the page to determine the answer to the silly riddle!

If you’re looking for resources to teach solving inequalities, check out Math Geek Mama+, our ad-free option that includes inquiry lessons to help students make sense of algebra topics such as solving inequalities.

There are visual lessons to help students see and understand what inequalities mean and WHY the inequality symbol flips.

Plus, you’ll find more engaging and easy to use practice pages like this one!

LEARN MORE ABOUT MATH GEEK MAMA+ HERE

Ready to use these riddle pages with your students? Just use the link below to grab it in my shop.

{Click HERE to go to my shop and grab the FREE Solve Inequalities Practice with Silly Riddles!}

Plus, find more resources for solving equations and inequalities at the links below:

• Summer Algebra Review: Solve Equations Practice
• Writing Algebraic Expressions: FREE Practice Pages
• DIGITAL Solving Linear Equations Error Analysis {FREE}

The post Solve Inequalities Practice – Silly Riddles for 7th-8th Grade appeared first on Math Geek Mama.

One of the most challenging topics in middle school math is making sense of rational numbers in all their forms-fractions, decimals, repeating decimals-and knowing how to convert between various forms. Throw in positive and negative signs and things get really crazy! In this simple rational numbers activity, students will use lots of different math skills and strategies to compare rational numbers.

What Are Rational Numbers?

Rational numbers is a set of numbers that includes any number that can be written in fraction form. Thus, every rational number can also be written as a repeating decimal or a terminating decimal (meaning it stops, such as 0.5). Rational numbers also include integers, meaning both positive and negative numbers.

That means rational numbers include many different forms or sets of numbers, such as:

• Positive and negative whole numbers
• Positive and negative fractions and mixed numbers
• Positive and negative decimal values, as long as they either repeat or terminate

Although students begin comparing fractions and decimals as early as 4th grade, 7th or 8th grade students look at much more complex rational numbers. More challenging comparisons are what’s included in this sorting challenge.

Compare Rational Numbers Sorting Activity

This printable activity includes 12 rational number comparisons.

This means students are trying to determine less than, greater than or equal to with each pair of rational numbers.

Some of the problems compare two fractions, some compare a fraction to a decimal, and some compare two decimal values.

Adding to the challenge, some of the numbers are positive and some are negative.

Students should use a variety of strategies to compare the quantities, such as:

• Are both positive or both negative? If one is positive and one negative, they know right away which is larger, regardless of the number forms
• If the numbers are both fractions, they might rewrite them to have common denominators or use other strategies such as comparing each to a benchmark such as 1/2 or one whole
• If the numbers are both decimals, they should pay attention to place value
• If the numbers are in different forms, they can rewrite one so they are in the same form (such as both decimals) or they can compare the a benchmark, or consider place value
• If they’re looking for a visual, they could put the numbers on a number line

The goal is for students to find ways to compare the quantities and then determine how to correctly complete the comparison statement (<, > or =).

How to Use the Rational Number Sort:

This is designed to be a printable cut and paste activity, however there are other options as well depending on what will work best for your students.

Printable Cut and Paste Activity:

To use as a cut and paste activity, print the sorting mat (one per student or one per pair–this works well as a partner activity).

Then print the page of comparison problems. There are two sets per page, so print enough so you have a complete set for each student or pair of students.

Students then cut out each expression, compare the rational numbers and determine if it goes in the “Less Than,” “Equal To,” or “Greater Than” column on the sorting mat.

Encourage them to sort all problems first and then let you check it before they glue the final answer down.

Once students have corrected sorted each comparison statement, they glue them down and they’re done!

Math Center Option:

If you would prefer to prep this one time and use it again and again, you can print the sorting mat on colored card stock paper and laminate for durability.

Then print the comparison statements on another color of card stock paper and laminate. Cut out all the comparison statements to go along with the sorting mat.

Students then work sort the statements onto the mat, but don’t glue them down.

Then store the comparison statements in a ziplock bag along with the sorting mat for another group to use later!

Lastly, one final option is to print the sorting mat and cards on card stock paper. Laminate the sorting mat or place it in a page protector and give students a dry erase marker.

Then students can simply write the comparison statements onto the sorting mat, no cutting or pasting required.

(You can also do it this way as an individual review. Just print a page for each student on regular paper and let them write in their comparisons to turn into you). 

When they finish, be sure they erase their answers from the mat and store the mat and comparison statements for another day.

I hope this provides a helpful challenge as your students learn to work with & compare rational numbers.

If you enjoy this activity, become a Math Geek Mama+ member and gain access to the entire ad-free library of engaging activities like this one, with hundreds of math games, digital practice, and low-prep review worksheets for grades 5-8!

Learn more about Math Geek Mama+ right HERE.

If you’re ready to grab it, use the link below to head to my shop to get a free copy!

{Click HERE to go to my shop and grab the FREE Compare Rational Numbers Sort for 7th & 8th Grade!}

Looking for more rational numbers resources? Check out the links below!

• {FREE} Get Them in Order: Comparing Fractions Game
• Adding and Subtracting Integers {FREE Lesson!}
• Multiply & Divide Integers Lesson {FREE}
• Compare Decimals Cut & Paste Sort {FREE!}

The post Compare Rational Numbers Sorting Challenge – Grades 7-8 appeared first on Math Geek Mama.

Translating words and phrases into “math language” is an important skill because it will help them prepare for algebra and higher levels of math. But getting kids comfortable and confident with that takes time and practice. Whether you’ve got 5th graders working on numerical expressions or 6th and 7th graders writing algebraic expressions with variables, this low-prep and engaging partner challenge is a great warm-up!

What are Expressions?

Before jumping into this activity with your students, be sure you (and they) understand what expressions are.

Here’s a short, helpful definition of a numerical expression:

Numerical expressions are number sentences involving one or more operations.

Some examples include: 5 + 7 or 15/8 + 12 or (16 + 3) x 18

Numerical expressions contain NUMBERS and math OPERATIONS.

What about algebraic expressions? What’s the difference?

Algebraic expressions are similar to numerical expressions in that they include numbers and operations, but they also include at least one VARIABLE, which represents an unknown number.

Some examples of algebraic expressions are: 3x or 9 – 12y or (4 + p) – 15r

The key thing to note is that expressions include numbers and math operation symbols but NO EQUALS SIGN.

When you have two expressions that are equal to each other, it forms an equation. But that’s a post for another day. If you’d like to move on to finding equivalent expressions try this cut and paste equivalent expressions activity.

Introducing Expressions to Students

Although I shared some definitions and examples for you above, I would encourage you to NOT start there with your students.

Instead, give them the chance to think about their own way of translating situations, words and phrases into expressions using this partner challenge.

Walk around the room and listen in on student conversations to hear how they think about the wording and the math. Listen to student disagreements and how they justify their answers.

This will give you insights into what students already know, what they may need help with, and any misconceptions that you need to clear up after they finish the activity.

Writing Expressions Activity: Which Version Will You Use?

To use this in your class, all you need to do is choose which version is best (numeric expressions or algebraic expressions) then print a set for each pair of students.

But which version do you need for your students? Option one includes numerical expressions only. This is best for 5th grade students who are not yet ready to work with or think about variables.

But you might also use this version with older students who struggle with word problems, need further clarification on different math operations or who need a refresher before including variables.

Option two is to help introduce students to writing algebraic expressions. This is a fun warm-up for 6th or 7th grade students before you get into your expressions chapter or unit, or as a quick refresher before working on more challenging expressions and word problems.

If you enjoy this activity, become a Math Geek Mama+ member and gain access to the entire ad-free library of engaging math activities like this one, hundreds of math games and low-prep practice worksheets for grades 5-8!

Learn more about Math Geek Mama+ right HERE.

How to Use the Writing Expressions Partner Activity

To begin, pair students with a partner and print a worksheet for each partner. One student should have ‘Partner A’ and the other student should have ‘Partner B.’

The post FREE Writing Expressions Activity: Partner Challenge – Grades 5-7 appeared first on Math Geek Mama.

What is a ratio? How does it differ from a fraction? Introducing and teaching ratios can be a challenging topic for students to wrap their mind around because it looks like something familiar (fractions) but it’s actually different. Making sense of ratios and proportions takes a lot of exploration & practice and especially looking at problems in context. This set of camping ratio tasks is a good way to have conversations about ratios in real life and how we can use ratios & proportions to solve problems.

Once you’ve completed your chapter or unit on ratios, this ratios task cards review game is a great way to put all their knowledge together and review lots of ratio skills at once.

This free task card activity includes 24 ratios & unit rate task cards. But there’s a twist that makes this more fun than your average task cards set!

Ratios Task Cards Review Game: Skills Covered

Here’s a quick list of ratios related skills students will practice with this task card set.

• Writing ratios
• Equivalent ratios
• Ratios & unit rate word problems

Prep Required for the Ratios Task Cards

To get this ready for your students, start by printing the 24 task cards (4 per page) on card stock paper and print the student recording page (2 per page).

If possible, laminate the task cards for durability.

Cut out all the cards and cut the student answer pages in half.

Then hang the task cards around the room, scatter them on different tables or lay them out on the floor. The key is to put them various places so students are up and moving as they solve the problems!

And that’s it! Now your students are ready for the ratios and unit rate review game.

How to Play the Task Cards Breakout Game

This game is like a combination of a scavenger hunt and an escape room.

The goal is to be the first student who determines the 4-digit code by completing all the task card problems.

To begin, students determine the answer to one of the task card problems.

Each problem includes 4 gems, representing multiple choice answers. When they know the answer, they color in that gem (and record the question number) on their answer sheet.

Once they complete all 24 problems, they add up the total number of each type of gem to reveal the 4-digit code.

The first student to determine the 4-digit code wins!

If you enjoy this activity, become a Math Geek Mama+ member and gain access to the entire ad-free library of engaging games like this one, with hundreds of math games, digital practice, and low-prep review worksheets for grades 5-8!

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Tips for Teachers

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I used to be (and often still am) a very paper-and-pencil, hands-on tools kind of teacher. Partly because the thought of using online or digital activities was overwhelming for me–something new to learn?? Who has time for that!? And partly because I think there tends to be too much reliance on technology and thinking that it somehow provides a *magical solution* for students who struggle in math. The truth is there is no magical solution. Just good teaching from human teachers who put in the hard work, and from students who do the hard work to grow and learn.

But I have found that there can definitely still be benefits to online, digital activities and they can add another layer of fun and engagement for students. PLUS–they can be a huge time saver for the teacher! It’s a win-win situation! That’s the goal with this digital multiply decimals activity: to provide a fun practice challenge for students & a no-prep, self-checking time saver for teachers.

Mystery Maze: Digital Multiply Decimals Activity

This digital activity is designed for google sheets. In order to share it with students, you will make a copy for yourself in your google drive. Then you can share that with your students in Google Classroom.

This activity provides practice multiplying decimals to the tenths place.

To begin, students are given a mixed up maze. To rearrange the maze so they can find their way through, they must correctly evaluate each multiplication expression.

To start, they multiply each decimal expression to determine the solution. They then type the solution into the answer box to check it.

A correct solution will turn the box green and the pieces of the maze will move. An incorrect solution will turn the box red, indicating they need to try again.

Once all solutions are correct, students will be able to find their way through the maze to determine the secret 4-digit code.

The 4-digit code unlocks maze #2! (A second sheet will appear at the bottom of the google sheets page)

At that point, students can begin to work on maze 2 in the same way.

Use this as a simple, no-prep sub plans activity or as a review before a quiz or test.

If your students have access to devices and google classroom, I think they’ll love this unique digital challenge!

If you enjoy this activity, become a Math Geek Mama+ member and gain access to the entire library of engaging digital activities like this one, hundreds of math games and low-prep practice worksheets for grades 5-8!

Learn more about Math Geek Mama+ right HERE.

Multiple Layers of Fun:

One thing I love about this activity is there are multiple layers to it. Students will likely be anxious to solve the maze. But since it’s all mixed up, there’s no way to find a path through the maze without completing the decimal multiplication practice!

But they aren’t simply trying to find a path through the maze. They also need to figure out the secret code as they move through the maze!

Once they have the secret code, they unlock a new maze. Then again, they can’t solve the maze without doing the math.

I hope this unique digital activity provides a fun challenge for your students, and also a bit of a break for you. There’s no prep, no grading, no stress! Enjoy!

Want to grab a copy of this digital multiply decimals activity to try with your students? Use the link below to grab it in my shop.

{Click HERE to go to my shop and grab the FREE Digital Multiply Decimals Activity for Google Sheets!}

Looking for more digital activities? Try one of these:

• {FREE} Digital Pi Day Activity: Decimal Operations Word Problems
• Classifying 2D Figures: Digital Activity
• Decimals On a Number Line Digital Activity
• Order of Operations Error Analysis | DIGITAL Practice
• Match Equivalent Fractions Digital Game

The post {FREE} Multiply Decimals Mystery Maze: DIGITAL Activity appeared first on Math Geek Mama.

Once students are familiar and comfortable multiplying large whole numbers, it may seem like multiplying decimals will be a snap. After all, isn’t it basically the same thing, just with a decimal point? Although the standard algorithm is the same, there’s a lot more going on when dealing with decimal values and it’s important to build a conceptual understanding first rather than jumping into a procedure. This will help students avoid common mistakes and misconceptions when they begin using the standard algorithm (the “line it it and multiply” procedure).

Once students have a foundation and understand how decimal values relate to fractions or mixed numbers (including a “whole” and a “part”), they need lots of exposure and practice. And this multiply decimals scavenger hunt is perfect for giving them that extra practice!

Multiply Decimals: What’s Included

This free download includes everything you need for the whole class scavenger hunt, as well as some independent practice pages.

The focus is on multiplying whole numbers by tenths and multiplying tenths by tenths.

Here’s what’s included:

• 10 Scavenger Hunt problems (half-sheets)
• Student recording page to show work
• Answer key for the scavenger hunt
• Multiply whole numbers by tenths worksheet
• Multiply tenths by tenths worksheet
• Answer keys for both independent worksheets

Prep Needed for the Multiply Decimals Scavenger Hunt:

This decimals activity does require a little prep, but if you print on card stock paper and laminate, you can reuse it again and again with no prep.

To begin, print the “hunt” cards and cut them in half. There are 10 problems included on half-sheet pieces of paper.

Hang the question cards around your classroom in any order.

Then simply print a recording sheet for each student and you’re all set to begin.

How the Scavenger Hunt Works:

I like to put students in pairs so they can discuss and help each other as they make their way through the scavenger hunt, but that’s not necessary. They can also work independently if they prefer.

Either way, I give students a clip board so it’s easier to move about the room and show their thinking/solutions for each problem.

When they’re ready to start, they head to any problem they want and try to solve the decimal multiplication problem.

If you have a large class, you may want to assign students/pairs a starting question so they’re not all gathered around the same card at once.

Once students have a solution to the problem, they look for that solution on another card in the room.

When they find the solution, they then solve the decimal problem on THAT card, and search for the answer around the room.

They continue solving and hunting for the answer until they end up back where they started.

This will signal to them that they’ve correctly solved all the problems and are finished with the scavenger hunt!

If at anytime they can’t find a solution, or end up where they started without answering all the questions, they know they did something wrong and need to check their work.

If you enjoy this lesson, become a Math Geek Mama+ member and gain access to the entire library of engaging math lessons like this one, hundreds of math games and low-prep practice worksheets for grades 5-8!

Learn more about Math Geek Mama+ right HERE.

Get Kids Up and Moving:

I love using scavenger hunts on occasion because it is a break from the normal routine.

It gives kids a chance to get up, stretch and move about the room, talk math with their partner, and just do something different.

Plus, it is self-checking, allowing students to look for their own mistakes and make corrections, a valuable skill in math class.

And if your students are familiar with the basics of how these hunts work, you can do this every once in a while without having to explain a new procedure. You can even use these in your sub plans!

Independent Practice or Assessment Included:

Once students are finished with the hunt (or as a review before they begin), you may want to use the included worksheets as independent practice or assessment.

This scavenger hunt focuses on multiplying whole numbers by tenths and multiplying tenths by tenths.

As a quick review or assessment, two worksheets are included to cover these skills.

Use these as homework, graded classwork or extra review for kids who are still struggling with this skill.

Ready to try this out with your students? Use the link below to head to my shop and grab this activity for FREE.

{Click HERE to go to my shop and grab the FREE Multiply Decimals Scavenger Hunt!}

Looking for more Decimal Operations Resources? Check out these ideas:

• {FREE} Multiply Decimals with Grids: Cut & Paste Set
• {FREE} Multiplying Decimals Word Problems Set
• How to Add Decimals: Simple Strategies & Tips
• Adding & Subtracting Decimals Partner Challenge {FREE!}
• Spin It! Multiplying Decimals Game for Kids {FREE}

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