Math and English are two of the most important and emphasized subjects in school. However, as math gets increasingly difficult, students can become overwhelmed and discouraged. The games and activities below help teachers keep their lessons and practice assignments engaging and effective. Each activity focuses on evaluating algebraic expressions in a way that promotes critical thinking and aligns with Common Core math standards. Here are 9 effective activities to help your learners evaluate algebraic expressions!
1. Maze Activity
This activity is great for students to practice evaluating algebraic expressions in a fun maze game. They have to solve the first equation in order to move on to the next location in the maze. Their goal is to get to the finish by finding all of the correct answers!
Learn more: Infinity Math Creations
2. Little Lucky Lottery
After COVID, pre-made digital activities became a coveted classroom resource. This pre-made digital activity asks students to evaluate algebraic expressions; then, they self-check their answers. As they get the correct answers, they reveal the next space of a lottery ticket.
Learn more: Amped Up Learning
3. Beyond the Workbook
This activity uses a hands-on model to teach students how to create numerical expressions to represent unknown variables. It uses blocks and paper bags to encourage students to use their critical thinking skills to evaluate the expressions.
Learn more: Ed Tech
4. Use Algebra Tiles
Algebra tiles allow students to gain a visual and tactile understanding of numerical representations such as equations. Students can use the algebra tiles to represent and evaluate equations.
Learn more: Mashup Math
5. New Year’s Crack-the-Code
In this activity, students must crack the code by solving algebraic equations. They will solve each problem to reveal a secret letter that helps to complete the code. Teachers can also create their own crack-the-code-style worksheets based on the one above.
Learn more: Tes.com
6. Color By Number
This is a fun coloring activity that kids will love. As they solve algebraic expressions, they get to color in the appropriate number on a picture. They have to match the correct problem answer and question with the correct color to complete the coloring activity.
Learn more: Made by Teachers
7. Task Cards
Task cards are a good way to start a lesson and help kids repeat and review skills covered previously. These task cards all are different and ask students to solve algebraic equations with multiplication and division.
Learn more: Thrifty Homeschoolers
8. Basketball Game
This online game asks students to evaluate algebraic expressions in order to play a basketball game and win. The questions are aligned with Common Core Math standards. The game is multi-player and kids will love competing against each other to win!
Learn more: Math Play.com
9. Splash Learn
Splash Learn is a website that gamifies mathematical concepts for students to practice and review. There are fun games that cover all aspects of algebra, including evaluating expressions using substitution.
Learn more: Splash Learn