The days before winter break can be a tough time to keep students focused on academics, but they can also be an opportunity to enjoy math in a stress-free, engaging way. Here are some of my favorite non-curricular but mathy activities to keep your middle and high school students entertained while still thinking mathematically.
1. Math Trivia or Jeopardy Game
Turn the classroom into a game show with a math-themed trivia or Jeopardy game. You can include categories like:
- Fun Math Facts
- Famous Mathematicians
- Geometry in the Real World
- Puzzles & Riddles
Here are some ready-to-use Algebra I Jeopardy-style games.
Why It Works: Games are fun, fast-paced, and allow you to sneak in learning without students realizing it. Plus, it’s easy to differentiate the questions for multiple grade levels.
2. Watch Donald in Mathmagic Land
Take your class on a nostalgic math adventure by showing the classic Disney film Donald in Mathmagic Land. Here’s the link to the full video. This 27-minute short film blends entertainment and education as Donald Duck explores the magic of math in music, nature, games, and art.
Why It Works: It’s perfect for winding down while still sparking curiosity about math in the real world. Even older students can appreciate its historical charm and fun math connections.
Follow-Up Idea: Have a quick class discussion afterward. Ask students to share their favorite discoveries from the video—Was it the golden ratio? Music? Billiards? It’s an easy way to tie math into art, science, and life.
3. Math Puzzles and Brain Teasers
The days before break are an ideal time to let students flex their problem-solving muscles in a low-pressure way. Here are a few ideas:
- Sudoku Challenges: Print a variety of Sudoku puzzles at different difficulty levels.
- KenKen or Kakuro: These logic-based number puzzles are a fun twist on traditional math worksheets.
- Math Riddles: Find some grade-appropriate brain teasers online or create your own!
Why It Works: Puzzles give students a challenge, but they’re more like games than formal math problems. They also help build critical thinking skills.
4. Virtual Teacher Appreciation Postcards
If you want to blend some gratitude into the mix, consider giving your students time to write virtual teacher appreciation postcards to any teacher or staff member. Students can recognize their teachers for all their hard work this semester.
How to Do It:
- Share a simple online tool for creating digital cards (or provide a template).
- Let students personalize their notes—they could even include a fun math pun (e.g., “Thanks for always being greater than or equal to amazing!”).
- Click here to access my free Thank You template.
Why It Works: It brings a positive and reflective tone to the classroom and helps students end the semester on a kind note.
5. Build a 3D Snowflake or Origami Math Art
Bring some creativity into math class by connecting math to art! You can:
- Create 3D paper snowflakes using symmetry and geometric shapes.
- Fold origami structures (think cubes, pyramids, or even stars) and connect them to math concepts like angles, fractions, or surface area.
Why It Works: Students love hands-on projects, and these activities reinforce geometry concepts without feeling like “work.” Plus, you’ll get beautiful decorations for your classroom!
6. Math-Themed Hangman
If you’re looking for something simple and fun, Math Hangman is a fantastic option! This free online resource allows you to play Hangman with pre-selected math-related words. Students can work in teams or pairs to guess the words while you subtly review vocabulary and key math concepts.
Why It Works: It engages students with math terminology without feeling like traditional learning. Plus, it’s collaborative and competitive, which keeps energy levels high in the days leading up to a break.
7. Math-Themed Board or Online Games
Bring in classic games with a math twist:
- Blokus: Great for practicing spatial reasoning and strategy.
- SET: A card game that reinforces pattern recognition.
- Online Games: Websites like Coolmath Games offer free, engaging math activities for all ages.
Why It Works: These games are fun, interactive, and math-focused. Plus, they’re a great way to encourage teamwork and problem-solving.
Wrap-Up: Make Math Fun Before Break!
The days before winter break don’t have to feel like a battle to keep students on task. With these ideas, you can keep the vibe light, mathy, and engaging. Whether it’s through puzzles, movies, art, or games, you can show your students that math is everywhere—and it can be fun.
What are your favorite ways to keep math class engaging before a break? Share your go-to activities below—I’d love to hear them!
