Looking for exciting math review games that will actually keep your 3rd-6th graders engaged? As a former elementary teacher, I’ve discovered that transforming math review into games not only boosts student enthusiasm but dramatically improves concept retention.
These five teacher-tested math review games require minimal prep time while maximizing student participation – perfect for busy upper elementary classrooms during test prep season, mid-unit reinforcement, or end-of-unit celebrations. Get ready to explore these classroom-proven activities that will have your students begging for more math practice!
When to Use Math Review Games
Math review games aren’t just for end-of-unit fun—they’re versatile tools you can use strategically throughout the school year:
- Quick Assessments: Observe student understanding in real-time without the pressure of formal testing
- Mid-Unit Refreshers: Break up lesson monotony with engaging practice that reinforces key concepts
- End-of-Unit Celebration: Cap off units with interactive games that solidify learning while students have fun
- Spaced Practice: Schedule regular game sessions to keep previously taught skills fresh and prevent learning loss
- Test Prep Made Fun: Transform potentially tedious standardized test preparation into energizing review sessions
5 Math Review Games Your Students Will Love
1. Review Bowl Game Shows
My students’ enthusiasm for math skyrocketed when I introduced Review Bowl games to our math block back in 2012. These Jeopardy®-style games create incredible whole-class engagement while reinforcing essential skills.
What you’ll need:
- Computer with PowerPoint or Google Slides
- Projection method (TV, projector, interactive whiteboard)
- Individual whiteboards and markers for students
Students love the competitive element, and you’ll appreciate how this format ensures every student participates in the review, not just a vocal few.
Ready to try Review Bowl? Grab a free Math Review Bowl game to experience the excitement, or check out my complete guide in Your Complete Guide to Review Bowl Math Games.
2. Math Relays
Transform math practice into an active, team-building exercise with Math Relays. Small groups compete to solve problems quickly while supporting each other’s learning.
I’ve found that adding a creative element takes engagement to another level. In my 5th grade classroom, teams solved nine problems, then progressively drew a snowman after each correct submission. This approach rewards both accuracy and creativity!
Pro tip: Assign each student specific problems to ensure everyone contributes to their team’s success.
3. Math Color by Number and Mystery Pixel Art
The first time I handed out math color by number worksheets, my students were instantly hooked! Something about revealing a hidden image through correct answers creates irresistible motivation.
These self-paced activities work brilliantly for:
- Differentiated practice
- Early finisher activities
- Math centers
- Homework with built-in engagement
Time-saving option: Digital pixel art versions auto-reveal parts of the image with correct answers, providing instant feedback without teacher grading.
Ready to try this approach? Download my free Math Color by Number and Mystery Pixel Art activity to see why students find these so engaging.
4. Trashketball
When students need to move their bodies while practicing math, Trashketball delivers! This simple yet effective game gets students out of their seats while maintaining focus on math concepts.
Create a “basket” using a recycling bin or container. Students earn shooting opportunities by correctly answering problems, with different shooting lines or target areas worth varying points.
Classroom-tested tip: Use existing problems from your curriculum—no special materials required! This makes Trashketball perfect for impromptu review when you notice students need additional practice.
5. Online Games
Digital platforms like Gimkit and Blooket offer customizable math reviews that today’s tech-savvy students find irresistible. The benefits extend beyond engagement:
- Immediate feedback for students
- Detailed data tracking for teachers
- Customizable skill selection
- Progress monitoring without paperwork
These tools work especially well for homework, distance learning, or tech center rotations.
Keep Math Review Fresh and Engaging
Math review doesn’t have to mean silent worksheet time or monotonous practice. With these five engaging math review games, you can transform necessary skill practice into something your upper elementary students actually look forward to!
Remember that effective math review is about consistency, not cramming. By incorporating these games regularly throughout your units, you’ll help students retain concepts longer and develop more positive associations with math practice.
Which game will you try first? Whether you choose the whole-class excitement of Review Bowl, the collaborative energy of Math Relays, or the self-paced mystery of Pixel Art, your students will thank you for making math review something to look forward to.
Need more support with math instruction? Download my free Math Stations Made Simple guide to learn how I structure engaging, low-prep math centers that keep students independently practicing while you work with small groups.
FREE Math Stations Made Simple Guide
Everything you need to get started: editable planning templates, rotation schedules, and step-by-step instructions for setting up stations that build multiplication and division fluency without the stress. Perfect for busy upper elementary teachers who want to maximize student engagement while minimizing prep time!
