Number Search Puzzle for Fun Multiplication and Division Practice!
Getting students engaged during math facts practice can be a challenge, to say the least!
Most of the multiplication and division worksheets I’ve come across are pretty straightforward. In this case, straightforward also means fairly boring, which is the last thing you want when you’re teaching crucial math skills.
When students reach multiplication and division up to 12, it’s even more challenging to keep activities engaging. This is typically the point where students start to struggle, so it helps to get extra practice in while keeping things fun.
Friends, when I discovered number search puzzles for practicing math facts, I was HOOKED! Finally, I had a solution to repetitive multiplication and division worksheets. Number searches feel like games to students, but they really help cement those difficult facts. Plus, it helps me get a read on who knows their stuff. If students get the wrong answer for a problem, they’ll be searching for a number on the puzzle that’s not there!
I love this Multiplication and Division Number Search Puzzle so much, I knew I had to share it with all of you. I even included a digital version on Google Classroom so that distance learning classes can have fun with it too!
What is a number search puzzle?
You’re probably familiar with word searches, but number search puzzles work a little differently. Instead of simply searching for a word or number that’s given to you, students have to complete a math problem in order to search for the numbers! Once the problem has been solved, you look for the answer in the puzzle. After students find the answer, they simply circle it and move onto the next problem. When all of the math problems are solved and found in the number search puzzle, the activity is complete! As you can already tell, number search puzzles are such a fun twist on traditional multiplication and division worksheets. It’s a fantastic way for students to practice their math facts and meet standards.
What’s included in the Multiplication and Division Number Search Puzzle resource?
This awesome number search puzzle resource covers multiplication and division through 12. There are 10 different puzzles included, plus one bonus blank puzzle! This allows students to take on the extra challenge of creating a puzzle of their own, which I think is fantastic for more advanced students.
The number search puzzle can be printed for an easy low-prep activity. Plus, it comes with a digital version on Google Classroom! I love using the digital version for distance learning or unexpected days off. If you’re new to Google Classroom, don’t worry: there are step by step instructions on how to use the digital version!
How can you use this number search puzzle in the classroom?
I have used this number search puzzle in many different ways in my classroom, so I wanted to share a few of those with you. Here are a few of my favorite ways…
● Early finisher activity — Students who finish early can simply grab a puzzle and get to work while the rest of the class wraps up what they’re working on! I try to keep my students engaged and their brains active at all times, and this is one of my go-to finisher activities for doing so.
● Higher learner activity — This number search puzzle is great for enriching math skills in higher level learners. The bonus create-your-own puzzle will challenge even your best math students!
● Center activity — Students can work together or solo to solve a puzzle for their math center.
● Substitute activity — Students require very little direction to complete this number search puzzle, which makes it a great option for substitute plans! It’s not just a boring or “filler” worksheet either, so you can be confident that your students are practicing valuable skills while you’re away from the classroom.
● Reusable activity — To save paper and reuse this activity, simply laminate the pages. Then, students can use dry erase markers to complete the puzzle. Laminating these puzzles will make them last for years!
Looking for more math games?
I love using games to help students learn all kinds of math skills. If you love the idea of this multiplication and division number search puzzle, you might also love my place value games!
● Roll and Write Place Value Dice Game
● The 3 Digit Place Value Game Bundle
● Place Value I Have… Who Has… Game
Conclusion
Learning multiplication and division math facts doesn’t have to be boring. Switch up your usual math lesson with this Multiplication and Division Number Search Puzzle! Students get to solve multiplication and division problems up to 12 and search for the answers. You might even get your students to look forward to practicing their math facts with this math number search puzzle!
What’s your favorite way to practice math facts in the classroom? I’d love to hear your thoughts and tips!