Stand Up for Math

Become a numeral or math symbol so your class can act out solutions to math problems. Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division can be interactive!

• 1.

  Your teacher may decide in advance what numerals and math functions or grouping symbols to use. Use math problems in your book or invent new ones. Either a teacher or student can lead this game.

• 2.

  To begin playing, the leader asks students to write either a numeral or a math sign (such as +, -, or =) on an individual dry-erase board with Crayola® Dry-Erase Markers.

• 3.

  The leader calls out the first numeral of a math problem. Students with that numeral come to the front of the room (or wherever there is space) and hold up their boards.

• 4.

  Next, the leader calls out a symbol such as "plus." Students with that sign stand next to students with the numeral that was called first.

• 5.

  The leader continues to call out numerals and symbols until a math problem is stated by each group of students. Be creative in making your statements!

• 6.

  Now, ask which classmates have white boards that are part of the solution? Does someone need to erase or add a numeral or symbol to state it? If your friends only wrote one numeral on their boards, does it take more than one student to solve the problem?

• 7.

  Repeat with new math problems!

Benefits

• Children apply basic or advanced mathematical skills while working cooperatively with other children to solve problems.
• Students demonstrate knowledge of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and/or division with a strategy that reinforces math concepts in a hands-on manner.

Adaptations

• Change just one numeral or symbol in the original problem. How does that affect the rest of the problem and the solution?
• Adapt the selection of numerals and processes, and the way students gather, to suit the abilities of any children with special needs.
• After going through the activity as a class, ask students to create problems independently or in small groups. Observe how they use teamwork and problem-solving skills to create their solutions.
• Assessment: Assess students’ understandings of mathematical concepts by changing a sign or numeral in a problem. Ask students to explain and demonstrate how this alters the solution.