Amy Raffo
January 09, 2025
Teachers know that January brings both challenges and opportunities in the classroom. Students may return from winter break with a mix of excitement and hesitation—some ready to dive back into learning, others needing extra encouragement to get back into the groove.
This is a great time to reignite curiosity and set the stage for a productive semester. Here are some ideas for activities to ease students into the routine while sparking their mathematical thinking.
- Math Escape Room
Create a classroom “escape room” where students solve Algebra problems to unlock clues and “escape” the challenge. Each correct answer leads to a new puzzle, combining fun and problem-solving.
- Math Detective
Present a mystery that students solve by using algebraic equations. For example, “Who Stole the New Year’s Clock?” Each solved problem narrows down suspects or reveals clues.
- Algebra Bingo
Create Bingo cards with different algebraic expressions. Call out simplified solutions, and students must find and mark the corresponding problem on their card.
- Math Art Challenge
Combine creativity with math by having students create “equation art” where graphing specific functions results in a picture (e.g., a snowflake or New Year’s fireworks).
- Real-Life Party Budgeting
Introduce a budgeting project where students plan a hypothetical New Year’s party with a set budget. They use math to calculate costs and stay under budget, integrating Algebra, percentages, and decimals.
- “What’s My Function?”
Play a guessing game where students identify the rule for a function based on input-output pairs. You can use it as a warm-up or brain teaser to kick off class.
- Math Resolutions
Ask students to set “math goals” for the semester. Pair this with a reflective activity where they solve problems related to their goals (e.g., “improve factoring skills” or “master inequalities”).
At TeacherStep, we’re here to support your professional growth as you focus on your students’ success.
Take advantage of the fresh start January offers. Whether you’re looking for innovative ways to teach geometry or fresh approaches to algebra, TeacherStep courses can give you the tools and confidence to make this semester your best one yet.