I see my friend Tom once every seven or eight years. The conversation always turns to a fun math lesson from sixth grade--math basketball. If a math lesson we learned over twenty-five years ago still ignites arguments, it must be good.
They were the Lakers. We were the Globetrotters. They defeated us 8-7 (something my friend Tom brings up 25 years later) and put our playoff status in limbo. We came back the next week to post a shocking 16-10 victory over the top team in the class, securing a playoff spot and giving us another shot at the Lakers, whom we defeated (something my friend Tom conveniently forgets).
What game still ignites arguments more than 25 years later?
The same game* I play in my classroom: Math Basketball--easily the greatest of fun math lesson plans.
* Special thanks to Mr. Rehnburgh, my sixth grade math teacher in 1980.
*This lesson can be used in middle school or for high school students who need a little motivation. It's not the best use of time for advanced math classes.
Fun Math lesson plans don't just fall out of the sky. You have to prepare.
- Each team consists of two mathematicians. You can assign teams or let them choose teams.
- Each team must create a team name. Most student will use the name of their favorite pro or college team. Each team must create a name plate to display during each match.
- Divide teams into different divisions. Keeping divisions around four to five teams works best.
- The Math basketball season consists of 14 games and two playoff weeks. That gives you two matches each Friday during the quarter.
- Make a schedule and post it on the bulletin board.