Math is challenging for many students as they progress through upper elementary. Even as a teacher, it’s challenging for me, which is why I’ve spent so much of my career focusing on learning ways to make math engaging and meaningful. If you’re wondering whether it’s worth dedicating class time to reviewing for a math quiz, I’m here to tell you it absolutely is.
I’ll never forget the day I watched my most math-anxious student light up during a review game. She went from avoiding eye contact during math lessons to actually volunteering answers. That’s when I knew I was onto something special with review activities.
I used to assign review worksheets the day before quizzes, thinking I was helping my students. But honestly? I was just creating more stress and busy work. Once I discovered game-based review, everything changed. Reviewing before a math quiz became something I always penciled into my plans because I saw the difference it made.
Why Students Need Time Reviewing Before a Math Quiz
Before we dive into my favorite method, let’s be honest about the alternatives. Traditional review methods like worksheets, flashcards, or silent study time can work, but they often leave students disengaged right when they need motivation most. Your students deserve better than another worksheet when they’re already feeling nervous about an upcoming assessment.
More specifically, I’d use Review Bowl game shows to study with my students. These games are a fun way to review for a math assessment – whether you’re giving students an end of unit quiz or reviewing for state testing. Below are five reasons teachers and students love reviewing before a math quiz with interactive games.
1. Engagement and Motivation
Students beg to play these games no matter their level of understanding of a concept. When you announce it’s time for reviewing before a math quiz using a game format, you’ll actually hear cheers instead of groans. Students are more willing to participate and pay attention to a game instead of a worksheet for math quiz review.
It’s easy for all students to participate and be engaged during the games, even those who typically shy away from math activities. The game format removes the pressure while still providing valuable practice. Learn more about how Review Bowl math game shows work.
2. Opportunity for Reflection
When students spend time reviewing before a math quiz through interactive activities, it allows them to see which topics or skills they need more clarification on. This isn’t just busy work – it’s strategic preparation that helps students identify their knowledge gaps before the actual assessment.
After every question in a review game, I made sure to walk through the solution process with the whole class. This meant students who got it wrong could see the correct method, while those who got it right could reinforce their understanding. This reflection time is crucial for building confidence before quiz day.
3. Cooperative Learning
While playing Review Bowl games, students work in small teams. When solving problems, they can compare answers with their peers and discuss different approaches. Those who need some extra clarification can get that coaching from their teammates, creating a supportive learning environment.
The bonus here is that the students doing the explaining are getting extra practice solidifying their understanding of the skills. It’s a win-win situation that benefits every learner in your classroom when you dedicate time to reviewing before a math quiz.
4. Stress-Free Fun
Let’s face it – quizzes can be stressful for students. A fun review session can actually reduce that anxiety while still preparing them effectively. Friendly competition is enjoyable when it’s done right. (If it’s not friendly, it’s not fun.)
I was very clear about this with my students and did not tolerate behavior that was over-competitive or mean toward others. Your students will love being able to work collaboratively with others to practice math skills in a low-pressure environment!
5. No Prep + No Worksheets = Teacher Win!
With daily practice, homework, and quizzes all being worksheet-based, it’s a treat for students to do something “out of the ordinary.” Using a whole class game show like Review Bowls helped mix things up and allowed students time away from worksheets.
As teachers, we know how precious our planning time is. The beauty of game-based activities for reviewing before a math quiz is that once you have the materials, there’s virtually no prep required. You can focus your energy on facilitating the learning rather than creating yet another worksheet that might end up in the recycling bin.
How to Make Reviewing Before a Math Quiz Work in Your Classroom
Ready to try this approach? Here’s how to make it work in your classroom:
Start small: Choose one upcoming quiz to try a game-based review approach. You don’t need to overhaul your entire system at once.
Set clear expectations: Explain to students that this is still serious learning time, just in a more engaging format. Establish ground rules for respectful competition.
Plan for different learning styles: Include visual, auditory, and kinesthetic elements in your review activities to reach all learners.
Follow up with reflection: After the review session, give students a few minutes to jot down what they learned or what they still need to practice.
What Other Teachers Think About Review Bowl Games
Don’t just take my word for it. Here’s what fellow educators are saying:
Fractions and Decimals Game Show | 4th Grade
“My students love playing Jeopardy as a review game. This was great to use when reviewing for state testing. Super resource! Thank you!”
– Krista M., 4th grade teacher
Adding and Subtracting Decimals Game Show | 5th Grade
“My students absolutely love this review game. I’ve tried others, and none of them quite get the level of engagement that this game has. The thing I love about this game is it is a “no opt-out” game. Everyone participates, even if you’re not in the “hot seat.” I will be getting every one of these review games for my 5th graders this year.“
– Mrs. G., 5th grade teacher
Ratios and Rates Game Show | 6th Grade
“This was the perfect review activity. We use Illustrative Mathematics, and my students did very well in their assessment after this activity. Thank you!”
– Megan W., 6th grade teacher
Try a Review Bowl Math Game for Free
If you want to give the best approach to reviewing before a math quiz a try with your students, I have three complete Review Bowl game shows available for free. These activities are only available for free on my website and are paid resources in my store!
Transform Boring Math Reviews into Exciting Game Shows
Bring the excitement of a game show to your math class with a game show for grades 4-6. Engage students, encourage teamwork, and make learning an unforgettable experience!
Making Math Quiz Review Work for You
The next time you’re reviewing before a math quiz, remember that engagement beats worksheets every time. Your students will thank you for making review time something they actually look forward to, and you’ll love seeing their confidence grow as they head into their assessment.
Game-based review isn’t just about having fun (though that’s a nice bonus) – it’s about creating meaningful learning experiences that stick. When students are actively engaged and working together, they’re not just preparing for a quiz; they’re building mathematical understanding that will serve them well beyond test day.
