How to Make Time for Math Projects

“So much time and so little to do. Wait a minute. Strike that. Reverse it.”

-Willy Wonka

I love this line from Willy Wonka! If only we really did have an endless amount of time during the school year. Unfortunately, it is not the case! There is hardly enough time to make it through the important math curriculum much less include projects for math class. However, projects can be a beneficial part of your school year. Today I am going to share why you should include math projects as well as when to do this!

Why Use Projects in Math Class

Projects can connect to the Real World: Projects such as Jobs, Salaries & Budgets give students a taste of the real world. This specific project gives students a chance to dream about and plan their future. Students love projects like this, not only are they engaging but they feel like the projects are worthwhile!
Projects can change the pace of math class: Students who struggle with math may find a project to be a welcome change of pace. If you allow for a few days of work on the project not only does this give students a change of everyday routine, but it also gives students a chance to talk about math in a different way.
Incorporates other skills while learning math: Projects can also incorporate skills such as writing or speaking about math topics. This Slope Project not only gives students opportunities to talk about different types of slopes but also allows students to use their creativity and have a little fun.
Cross-Curricular Opportunities: Many projects also incorporate other subject areas such as art, history, science, and more. Some examples from my shop include Pi Day Math Project or the Graphing Art Bundle.

When To Use Math Projects

If possible make a plan at the beginning of the year as to how many projects you want to incorporate into the school year.

Remember to start small. If you have never used a math project before maybe only include one or two and see how it goes. Set a reminder on your phone as to when you will assign the project. Try to include a few days of class time (or 20 minutes at the end of class for a week) as well as when students will share their finished project with their classmates.

Here are some of my favorite ways of when to assign projects:

Beginning of the Year

Many teachers use projects at the end of the year, but the beginning of the school year is another great time to use a project. Not only would a project be an engaging way to start the school year, but it can help students start talking about the importance of math in the real world.

You can have students work individually on a project or with a partner to practice team-building skills. As a bonus completed projects would look great hung up for back-to-school or open house night.

This Famous Mathematician Project is a perfect one to start off the school year with!

Once a Grading Period

Get in the habit of assigning a project once a grading period. This is a doable way to make sure a few projects are completed each year.

Extra Challenge Assignments

Have a file in your classroom or digitally where students know to find 2-3 project options. Students can work on a project when they are done with the day’s work.

This might be something you only assign students who need an extra challenge and not the entire class. You would need to give a due date- Perhaps one is due every month or halfway through each grading period. I used this method for a handful of students who needed an extra math challenge and they loved having something to do on their own.

No matter when you decided to use a project in math class, I know for sure your students will remember the engaging projects they work on.