Let's Play Mathematically! Aiming High Family Games

Playing games can unlock knowledge. Even more importantly, games can unlock a deep love of a subject.

36 maths games to develop a love of mathematics

• This first book in the Aiming High series provides 36 games to help develop that love for mathematics. Simple to use, they are easy and enjoyable to play for any age: these are not only games for kids, so the whole family can join in.
• Crucially, each comes with reflective questions and materials that are designed to bring out mathematical thinking and provide a deeper understanding of the topic that underlies the game. Even for the youngest players, this can be transformational.

Games and activities that go beyond winning

In practice, every game becomes a short mathematical activity. The reflective questions ask players to explain what they noticed: reasoning and problem-solving grow from the play itself.

Explaining a move out loud also builds confidence. A child who justifies a choice is practising mental maths and logic in the same breath.

In the primary classroom, this works well when a game opens the lesson and its questions lead the discussion. Because these games and activities suit any age, they fit alongside KS2 work and can still stretch KS3 students.

Ideas and activities with the equipment you have to hand

• Play the games with the book and equipment you have to hand, or buy the Aiming High Family Games Kit, which has everything you might need pre-prepared.

The book supplies the ideas and activities; the Kit supplies the pieces. Unlike a puzzle book worked alone, these maths games are shared: players take turns and compare their thinking.

For parents, the book offers a gentle way to support primary mathematics at home, with no worksheets involved. The Kit is best suited to you if you want to open the book and start a game straight away. Picture a first evening game, with the reflective questions read aloud once the last turn is played.

Developed with AIMSSEC

The Aiming High series of books and resources has been developed by Toni Beardon, the founder of the NRICH Mathematics Project and AIMSSEC, with Caroline Ainslie and the team at AIMSSEC.

The African Institute for Mathematical Sciences Schools Enrichment Centre (AIMSSEC) is a not-for-profit organisation that provides training and resources aiming to empower teachers from disadvantaged rural and township communities in South Africa and other parts of Africa. The team combines expertise in mathematics and mathematical communication with experience and understanding of operating effectively in hugely varying circumstances.

Royalties from sales of this publication will help AIMSSEC's work develop further.