Best Free Online Math Games for Grade 3 in 2024
Math games for grade 3 can be intimidating for many students as they encounter more complex concepts like multiplication, division, fractions, and measurement. However, math games offer an engaging way to reduce math anxiety and set students up for success. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the many benefits of using math games in 3rd grade classrooms.
Wukong Mathematics provides a wealth of online fun math learning resources for 3th Graders , and interested parents can obtain them for their children. Make an appointment for a free trial class of Wukong to get more opportunities to receive free materials.
Discovering the maths whiz in every child,
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Suitable for students worldwide, from grades 1 to 12.
Get started free!Building Math Skills Through Math Games for Grade 3
Math games allow students to practice new concepts and skills in a low-stakes environment. Target key math games for grade 3 standards focused on:
Number Sense
Ordering games help students compare and arrange numbers. Place value games reinforce understanding of ones, tens, hundreds, etc. Math memory games provide practice identifying number patterns.
Addition and Subtraction
Use dice, spinners, cards or online tools to create engaging addition and subtraction games. Math war and math facts games offer friendly competition. Word problem games connect skills to real-world scenarios.
Multiplication and Division
Skip counting games, array activities and multiplication bingo build fluency with times tables. Division games allow practice with remainders or models. Flashcard games assess memorization of facts.
Fractions
Equivalent fractions games support conceptual understanding. Comparing fractions games build number sense. Pie piece games give hands-on practice with fractions.
Measurement
Incorporate practice with length, time, money, temperature and graphs into classroom games. Cooking games allow for measuring practice. Direction games integrate spatial awareness.
Geometry
Shape identification games teach quadrilaterals and polygons. Coordinate games reinforce plotting points. Pattern block and tangram activities build spatial reasoning.
Math Games for Real-World Connections
1. Skip Counting Hop
As part of the third grade math games, Skip Counting Hop allows students ages 6-8 to practice skip counting on a virtual number path. Players take turns skip counting forward and backward by naming numbers in sequence according to the skip counting rule for that turn. This could be counting by 2s, 5s or 10s. The digital game makes skip counting an entertaining challenge while improving foundational skills in numeration and pattern recognition. Students build fluency recognizing number patterns and relationships as they hop through the numbers on their turns.
Age | 6-8 |
Skills | Numeration |
Gameplay | Take turns skip counting along a number path |
Access | Digital game |
2. Greater Than Race
Greater Than Race is a competitive game where students ages 7-9 race to be the first to correctly identify which of two 2-digit numbers is greater. On their turns, players compare pairs of numbers like 37 and 29 by evaluating the place value of tens and ones to determine which is larger. The fast-paced game strengthens number comparison skills as students must answer quickly. It challenges players to solve greater than/less than problems with speed and accuracy to beat their opponents in this digital race around the game board.
Age | 7-9 |
Skills | Number comparison |
Gameplay | Race to identify the greater of two numbers first |
Access | Digital game |
3. Addition Escape
In Addition Escape, an online escape room math game for ages 7-9, students must solve addition word problems and number sentences to find clues and “escape” from the room. Players click on objects within the room to reveal addition questions like 14 + 5 = ?. They type in the answer, which provides the next clue if correct. This reinforces addition facts retention in an engaging story-based format. The game makes addition practice feel more like an adventure than a worksheet as students solve problems to gradually unlock all the clues needed to leave the room.
Age | 7-9 |
Skills | Addition fluency |
Gameplay | Click objects to solve addition problems and progress |
Access | Online/app escape room game |
4. Count Around the World
Count Around the World is a map-based addition and subtraction game suitable for ages 6-8. Players race around the virtual world, spinning a number wheel to reveal whether they need to solve an addition or subtraction problem next. These double-digit math facts are within 20, building fluency. Students answer problems like 18 – 7 = ? by typing the numeral answer. As an interactive digital game, Count Around the World motivates fact practice through friendly world-traveling competition. Spinning places adds an element of surprise as well, keeping players engaged.
Age | 6-8 |
Skills | Addition and subtraction fluency within 20 |
Gameplay | Race around a map answering problems from a spun wheel |
Access | Digital map game |
5. Math Balls
Math Balls is a math fact fluency game designed to improve speed and accuracy for ages 6-9. Students must “catch” virtual math fact balls by typing the correct answers before the balls fall into the hole at the bottom of the screen. Balls display addition, subtraction or multiplication number sentences or questions that need solving like 6 x 4 = ?. The challenges increase as more balls are in play at once, reinforcing basic facts. Tapping balls with the right solution earns points to level up. This practices facts rapidly in a motivating, game-like format.
Age | 6-9 |
Skills | Basic math fact fluency |
Gameplay | Tap balls with number sentences before they fall into the hole |
Access | App or online math fact game |
6. Subtracto Sweep
Subtracto Sweep builds subtraction skills in an engaging game for ages 7-9. Players use their subtraction “dustpan” to sweep colorful game pieces symbolizing numbers into matching bags labeled with the answers to subtraction problems. For example, to solve 27 – 13, the pieces for 27 and 13 would go into the bag marked 14. Practicing problems with regrouping develops number sense and strategies as students carefully consider which pieces to sweep. Communicating reasoning during turns also fosters mathematical discourse. This board game balances skill-building with friendly competition.
Age | 7-9 |
Skills | Subtraction with regrouping |
Gameplay | Sweep pieces matching subtraction answers into bags |
Access | Board game |
7. Pizza Multiplier
Pizza Multiplier is a digital game engaging students ages 6-8 in practicing multiplication facts to 10. Players earn slices of pizza by solving multiplication problems presented on a take-out pizza box menu. This reinforces times tables like 5 x 3 = ? in a low-stakes, hunger-motivating way. Tapping the number sentence fills in the answer. Correct solutions add a slice to the personal pizza. The game makes multiplication practice feel achievable and rewarding through this food-themed mechanics. Building fundamental multiplication skills occurs in a playful, purposeful disguise!
Age | 6-8 |
Skills | Multiplication facts to 10 |
Gameplay | Earn pizza slices by solving multiplication problems |
Access | Digital math fact game |
8. Divide and Skate
Designed for ages 7-9, Divide and Skate builds division fluency through an interactive digital skateboarding adventure. Students are tasked with answering division problems correctly to progress to higher levels on the virtual skate park. Tapping division signs or questions like 48 ÷ 8 = ? reveals the simple division calculation. Entering the right quotient allows the player’s skater character to perform tricks and advance to new areas of the park along the number line. This engages division practice through a motion-filled activity bridging math and movement skills development.
Age | 7-9 |
Skills | Division facts |
Gameplay | Answer division problems to unlock new levels |
Access | Online/app math game |
9. Fraction Soccer
Fraction Soccer introduces comparing and ordering fractions for ages 6-9 through hands-on digital fraction manipulatives. Players choose fraction pieces like 1/2 or 1/4 of different shapes to assemble a full soccer team on the field. This allows exploring fraction concepts concretely. Dragging pieces requires judging relative size, such as knowing 1/2 is larger than 1/4. Immediate feedback develops intuition for fractions. The objective motivates, while interacting with visual models makes grasping fractional amounts more tactile and meaningful.
Age | 6-9 |
Skills | Comparing and ordering fractions |
Gameplay | Drag fraction pieces onto slots to complete soccer teams |
Access | Online/app fraction game |
10. Measure Up
Measure Up is a measurement-themed game appropriate for ages 6-8 that promotes crucial skills for third grade success. Students digitally measure real-world lengths and weights to complete challenges. Using virtual rulers, meter sticks or balances, players drag the tools to the objects to “measure” them. This compares the object to the units and develops accurate reading of sizes. Correct measurements earn virtual prizes and challenges accomplished. Hands-on engagement meets meaningful skill-building objectives through this gamified format introducing standardized units.
Age | 6-8 |
Skills | Measurement |
Gameplay | Drag rulers/scales to measure objects and complete challenges |
Access | Online/app measurement game |
11. Time Challenges
Time Challenges is a digital math game geared towards ages 7-9 that develops telling time proficiency. Students earn points by reading time-based word problems and correspondingly setting analog and digital clocks. Problems involve calculations related to schedules, timespans or daily routines. Solving these requires breaking down word problems, setting clocks accurately and checking answers – all crucial time skills. Immediate feedback reinforces comprehension. The game mechanics bridge symbolic and numerical time representations. Scoring motivates, while contextual scenarios ground skills in practical applications.
Age | 7-9 |
Skills | Time & word problems |
Gameplay | Read problems and set analog/digital clocks |
Access | Digital clock & word problem game |
12. Money Mondays
Money Mondays is a math app for ages 6-8 that boosts comfort with coin values and money calculations. Each game simulates tasks to complete on a Monday, like buying ice cream. Students make change by dragging coins – quarters, dimes, nickels or pennies onto a virtual balance scale. Seeing the coin amounts reduce from the price motivates accuracy when choosing coins to pay exact totals. Making change transfers understanding of coins quantities to real money application. Low-stakes engagement in a familiar weekly experience builds financial capacity.
Age | 6-8 |
Skills | Coin values & making change |
Gameplay | Drag coins onto scales to pay listed amounts |
Access | Online/app money math game |
13. Shape Shifter
Shape Shifter is a geometry video game appropriate for ages 7-9 that develops visualization and identification of 2D shapes. Students morph digital polygons on a touchscreen by tracing their fingers to add or remove vertices and edges. Immediate reconfiguration reveals the new shape. Comparing changes shows how shapes transform and relates visual properties to mathematical definitions. Freely manipulating shapes promotes creative geometry thinking. Challenges identify shape differences based on angles, sides and vertices. Precision practice moves geometry from abstract concepts to interactive exploration.
Age | 7-9 |
Skills | Geometry |
Gameplay | Trace to add/remove vertices and morph shapes |
Access | Tablet app |
14. Graph It Out
Graph It Out is an online data analysis program suitable for students ages 7-9. Players take surveys by choosing quantities of shapes, foods, pets or other categories. Tally tables organize results and guide construction of proper visual graphs representing the data. Bar graphs, line plots, pictographs and more model varied displays of information. Analyzing then graphing original data collections fosters real-world statistical skill and connects math to authentic situations. The scaffolded process grounds abstract charting in purposeful interpretation.
Age | 7-9 |
Skills | Data collection & graphing |
Gameplay | Survey, organize data, build graphs based on results |
Access | Digital data & graphing activities |
15. Multiplication Magic
For ages 7-9, Multiplication Magic is an online puzzle game reinforcing the multiplication concept. Students match factor cards to mystery product tiles by solving interactive clue combinations using deductive logic. For example, an image of six equal rows hints at the factors 6 x 5 = ?. Putting related factors together reveals the hidden products. Relating multiplication to familiar scenarios concretizes abstract relationships. Strategies identify which factors make a given product. Play motivates meaning-making that links factors and facilitates fact recall.
Age | 7-9 |
Skills | Multiplication concept |
Gameplay | Find clue combinations to reveal factors and products |
Access | App or online multiplication puzzle |
16. Division Divas
Division Divas allows ages 7-9 to trace division relationships through a board game format. Players follow story-based clues along a virtual track, stopping to solve problems at each flag. Questions involve dividing amounts into groups like 24 ÷ 4 = ?. Choosing the quotient advances, as division connects to repeated subtraction. Communicating thought processes grounds strategies for translating word problems into multiple-step numerical solutions. Friendly competition provides a purpose for interpreting division scenarios symbolically.
Age | 7-9 |
Skills | Division concept |
Gameplay | Follow clues, solve problems along the track |
Access | Online/app division game |
17. Algebra Adventures
Appropriate for ages 8-10, Algebra Adventures introduces algebraic foundations through digital puzzles and logic challenges. Students arrange open number sentence tiles in proper sequenced order based on observed patterns. For instance, if tiles read 8 + 3 = ? and 2 + 6 = 8, participants must deduce the operation order and missing values. Strategizing logical pathways reinforces algebraic mindsets like identifying operational relationships between variables. Manipulating equations represents symbolic reasoning typically too advanced for their level, engaging critical thinking.
Age | 8-10 |
Skills | Algebra foundations |
Gameplay | Slide pieces to complete open sentences based on patterns |
Access | Educational puzzle/logic game |
18. Word Count
Word Count allows ages 7-9 to hone contextualizing language in math word problems. Players read short problem prompts involving everyday scenarios. Selecting addition, subtraction, multiplication or division as the necessary operation translates language to calculations. For instance, choosing addition for “Brian had 7 cookies and his mom gave him 5 more” connects the scenario to the mathematical relationships. Immediate feedback fosters comprehending word problems’ arithmetic meanings despite surface-level distractions.
Age | 7-9 |
Skills | Word problem translation |
Gameplay | Read problem, select correct calculation |
Access | Online/app word problem practice |
19. STEM Challenges
Integrating math, science and engineering, STEM Challenges provides hands-on project scenarios for ages 8-10. Students complete grade-appropriate building tasks by following step-by-step virtual instructions. Using number-labeled pieces to construct ramps, bridges or other structures requires planning quantity, dimension and arrangement. Relating real-world constructions to mathematical considerations encourages holistic, applied thinking. Engaging with tactile manipulatives and feedback stimulates sequential logic, measurement and spatial reasoning.
Age | 8-10 |
Skills | STEM integration |
Gameplay | Use virtual building set to solve grade-level problems |
Access | Online STEM project platform |
20. Code Avengers
For ages 8-10, Code Avengers bridges algebra to coding through computational problem-solving. Players drag sequenced instructional blocks into a programming interface to represent ordered solutions for multi-step math word problems. For example, blocks for “add 5”, “multiply by 2” and “subtract 3” could model a story problem’s operations. Coding logic visually demonstrates algebraic thinking processes and introduces abstract symbolic representation. Seeing direct outcomes of their block orders inspires taking mathematical reasoning to a higher level. Problem-solving bridged to technology engages varied learning styles.
Age | 8-10 |
Skills | Computational thinking, coding logic |
Gameplay | Drag ordered code blocks to solve math problems |
Access | Educational coding activities |
Making Math Engaging for 3rd Graders
In addition to building skills, it’s important to keep math lessons lively and engaging. Here are game ideas that add an element of fun:
Group Games and Math Relays
Team up for math relays and competitions. Games allow students to interact, move around and learn from peers. Popular options are math facts competitions,Calculator games, Around the World, and math twister.
Math Twists on Classic Games
Put a math spin on well-known games like Bingo, Jeopardy, and Battleship. Adaptations like Multiplication Bingo and Fraction Battleship make math the central challenge.
Movement-Based Math Games
Get students out of their seats with active games like Jump to the Answer, Target Toss, and basketball variations. Movement increases blood flow to the brain and improves focus.
Math Scavenger Hunts
Send students on missions to find real-world examples of shapes, patterns, measurement units or data. Scavenger hunts build engagement and connect math to authentic contexts.
Math Bingo
Bingo games allow whole-class participation and provide repeated exposure to key skills. Update classic Bingo with math problems and solutions as call-outs and answers.
Interactive Math Manipulatives
Introduce hands-on tools like fraction circles, base 10 blocks, attribute pieces, and dice. Tactile learning sticks better than worksheets alone. Manipulatives make abstract concepts concrete.
Differentiated Math Games
The adaptability of math games makes them ideal for differentiating instruction. Adjust game complexity and modes of play to meet each student’s needs:
Struggling Students
For students needing more support, provide gradual progression in game difficulty. Give prompts and cues during game play. Allow aids like calculators and number lines during games. Focus on building confidence and fact fluency.
Advanced Students
Challenge accelerated students with complex calculations like multi-digit problems. Speed up play to test fluency. Limit math aids to increase difficulty. Introduce logic puzzles and strategy games.
All Learners
Observe students during games to identify learning gaps. Conference with individuals to provide tailored support. For students with special needs, modify games to allow participation. Update games frequently to maintain high engagement.
Games reveal how students think and problem solve. Use these insights to group students and customize lessons. Maintaining high interest will lead to math success for all your 3rd graders!
Benefits of Math Games
The advantages of using math games go far beyond basic skill practice. Here are some of the top benefits:
Improved Engagement and Motivation
Games provide an appealing alternative to worksheets. Friendly competition, hands-on options and element of chance keeps things exciting. Students actively participate rather than passively receive instruction.
Opportunities to Practice Skills
Drilling math facts through repetitive play ensures skills become second nature. Games allow practice without the stakes of a test. Students gain speed and accuracy.
Develop Critical Thinking
Games spur students to strategize, seek patterns and weigh risk vs reward. These critical thinking habits sharpen problem-solving skills. Games teach how to think flexibly.
Allow Assessment through Observation
Watching students play provides insight into current understanding. Errors reveal where reteaching is needed. Strategies used give clues about a student’s thinking process.
Build Collaboration and Communication Skills
Multiplayer games encourage teamwork and discussion of mathematical ideas. Students learn to articulate thinking and listen to diverse perspectives.
Boost Your Child’s Math Skills with These Top Resources
Looking for engaging math resources to ignite your child’s passion for numbers? Here are 3 top recommendations:
1. WuKong Math Courses
WuKong Math offers live online classes that make math fun for grades 1-12. With small group lessons by expert teachers, blended interactive curriculum, and dramatic score improvements, WuKong gets rave reviews from families worldwide.
Discovering the maths whiz in every child,
that’s what we do.
Suitable for students worldwide, from grades 1 to 12.
Get started free!Check out our advanced enrichment courses to help your child excel in math and win prestigious awards.
2. Khan Academy
This free online resource provides practice exercises, instructional videos, and assessments across math, science, and more. Kids can learn at their own pace through Khan Academy’s mastery learning system.
3. Prodigy
Prodigy is a colorful math game platform that engages students while assessing skills. With adaptive questions and rewards, it feels like playing a video game. A parent dashboard provides insights on progress.
With powerful resources like WuKong Math courses, Khan Academy, and Prodigy, you can equip your child with the tools to become a math whiz!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why are math games useful for 3rd graders?
A: Math games help 3rd graders master new skills and concepts in an engaging, low-stakes way. Games provide repetition and practice while keeping kids motivated. They also allow assessment of understanding.
Q: What math concepts should 3rd grade math games cover?
A: Key concepts include multiplication, division, fractions, measurement, time, money, geometry, data/graphs, and word problems on all operations.
Q: How can I make sure the games align to 3rd grade standards?
A: Review games to ensure they cover skills for 3rd grade specifically, not just general math concepts. Also look for games labeled by curriculum standards or grade levels.
Q: What are some examples of fun 3rd grade math games?
A: Examples are math bingo, dice games, card games, math twister, math memory, math scavenger hunts, math relays, adaptations of classic games, and interactive online games.
Conclusion
The immense benefits of using math games for grade 3 classrooms are clear. Games offer a fun way to build skills, differentiate instruction, assess understanding, and connect math to real life. Students thrive when math is hands-on, collaborative and enjoyable. A repertoire of creative games keeps concepts compelling. Math games lead to increased engagement, motivation and ultimately, proficiency. With an arsenal of activities like the ones suggested here, you can feel confident in making math memorable.
List of Math Game Websites for Grade 3
Website | Pros | Cons | Free Download? |
Math Playground | Wide variety of math games organized by math concept | Few games focused specifically on 3rd grade skills | No |
Education.com | Good selection of 3rd grade math games and worksheets | Must subscribe for full access beyond limited free content | Some resources available for free download |
ABCya | Hundreds of free math games for all elementary grades | Games not customized or aligned to 3rd grade curriculum | Yes |
Math Game Time | Games focus directly on building 3rd grade math skills | Smaller selection of games compared to some sites | No |
Coolmath Games | Very engaging, fun math games | Not organized by grade level or curriculum standards | Yes |
Mathletics | Aligned to curriculum, good progress tracking features | Focus seems to be broader than just games | No |
Delvair holds a degree in Physics from the Federal University of Maranhão, Brazil. With over six years of experience, she specializes in teaching mathematics, with a particular emphasis on Math Kangaroo competitions. She firmly believes that education is the cornerstone of society’s future. Additionally, she holds the conviction that every child can learn given the right environment and guidance. In her spare time, she enjoys singing and tending to her plants.
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