Let’s Play: Revolutionizing math(s) learning through play

Playful learning revolutionizes math(s) education: Read about the benefits of incorporating play in developing problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity

We’ve all been there – staring at a page full of numbers, feeling like our brains are about to explode. But what if we told you that there’s a way to learn math(s) that’s actually fun? A way that involves play and exploration, rather than rote memorisation and timed tests.

First, let’s talk about why play is so important when it comes to learning maths. As Stuart Brown explains in his book “Play,” play is a crucial component of human development. It’s how we learn about the world around us and develop skills that will be useful later in life. In fact, Brown argues that play is just as important as food, water, and shelter when it comes to our overall well-being.

Now let’s apply this to math(s)

Maths is a subject that’s often viewed as dry and uninteresting, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Sunil Singh and Christopher Brownell’s book “Maths Recess” argues that incorporating play into math(s) education can actually increase student engagement and understanding. When we approach math(s) with a sense of curiosity and playfulness, we’re more likely to make connections and discover patterns that we might not have seen otherwise.

The right ‘Mathematical Mindset’

In “Mathematical Mindsets”, Jo Boaler argues that anyone can become proficient in math(s) if they have the right mindset, and that traditional methods of teaching math(s) can lead to feelings of anxiety and a fixed mindset. It also means students see math(s) as abstract and rules based. Learning through play helps create a classroom environment that fosters a growth mindset, one where students are encouraged to take risks and explore.

So, how can you incorporate play into math(s) education?

One way is through games. There are countless math(s) games out there, and some that have fantastic mathematical thinking involved. By playing these games, students can develop their mathematical understanding in a fun and engaging way.

Another way to incorporate play into math(s) education is through exploration. Rather than simply memorising formulas and procedures, students can be encouraged to explore math(s) concepts on their own.

For example, they might be given a set of blocks and asked to build a structure using geometric principles. Or, they might be asked to solve a real-world problem, such as calculating the volume of a swimming pool.

By approaching math(s) in this way, students are more likely to develop a deep understanding of the subject, rather than simply regurgitating information. It also means they can solve problems rather than just mimicking procedures.

‘Play’ belongs in the classroom

Of course, there will always be those who argue that play has no place in the classroom, especially when it comes to a subject as “serious” as math(s). But at Number Hive we would argue that this attitude is misguided. By incorporating play into math(s) education, we’re not only making the subject more enjoyable, but we’re also helping students develop important skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.

3 ideas for introducing play into any math(s)classroom:

1. Math(s) Escape Rooms: Design math(s) themed escape rooms where students work together in teams to solve math(s) puzzles and clues to “escape” within a given time limit. This immersive and interactive activity promotes collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
2. Real-World Math(s) Projects: Assign real-world math(s) projects that relate to students’ interests and daily lives. For example, have them analyze data from sports statistics, create a budget for a hypothetical trip, or design a scaled blueprint for a dream house. This application of math(s) in real-life scenarios fosters relevance and engagement.
3. Math(s) Debates and Discussions: Organize math(s) debates or discussions where students explore controversial math(s) topics, solve open-ended problems, or present different solution approaches. Encourage students to articulate their reasoning, defend their viewpoints, and engage in critical analysis. This develops communication skills and deepens conceptual understanding.

3 ideas for introducing play into a HIGH SCHOOL math(s) class:

1. Math(s) Escape Rooms: Design math(s) themed escape rooms where students work together in teams to solve math(s) puzzles and clues to “escape” within a given time limit. This immersive and interactive activity promotes collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
2. Real-World Math(s) Projects: Assign real-world math(s) projects that relate to students’ interests and daily lives. For example, have them analyze data from sports statistics, create a budget for a hypothetical trip, or design a scaled blueprint for a dream house. This application of math(s) in real-life scenarios fosters relevance and engagement.
3. Math(s) Debates and Discussions: Organize math(s) debates or discussions where students explore controversial math(s) topics, solve open-ended problems, or present different solution approaches. Encourage students to articulate their reasoning, defend their viewpoints, and engage in critical analysis. This develops communication skills and deepens conceptual understanding.

A love of math(s) learning is ultimately the only game that matters

Wrapping up, incorporating play into maths education can help to create an environment where students feel comfortable to take risks, make mistakes, and explore new concepts in a way that fosters creativity, curiosity, and joy in the learning process. Ultimately, this can lead to deeper understanding and engagement with math(s), and a lifelong love of learning.