152. Why Most Classroom Math Games Aren’t Really Games (And How to Fix It)

Ever handed out a “math game” that was really just a worksheet with a dice on top? You’re not alone, and this episode will change how you choose games from now on.This week Ashleigh sits down with James Russo, a maths education researcher from Monash who spends his days in real primary classrooms testing what actually works. James unpacks the difference between a genuine math game and a gamified worksheet, why the maths has to be baked into the game rather than bolted on top, and the small teacher moves that turn a bit of fun into real mathematical thinking. If you love a good classroom game but sometimes wonder whether your students are actually learning from it, this one’s for you. In this episode, we cover:What separates a real math game from a gamified worksheet, and why it matters3 things every good math game needsHow to pause a game for a quick mathematical investigationUsing “beat the teacher” and pair play to harness competition without the chaosWhy your energy as the teacher is the secret ingredient to engagementWhat’s the one math game your class begs to play? Come tell us over on Instagram, we’re always hunting for new favourites to try.Rainbows ahead,Alisha and AshleighEnjoying the Podcast?If you’re loving Rainbow Skies for Teachers, we’d be so grateful if you could subscribe, leave a review and share this episode with a teacher friend. Your support helps us reach more educators and continue inspiring teachers around the world.Resources mentioned in this episode:James’s free math games: surfmaths.com/gamesEmail James: [email protected] Sky Creations UNO Math gamesAbout Today’s GuestJames Russo is a mathematics education researcher and teacher educator with a strong interest in how mathematical games support meaningful learning in classrooms. He’s a Senior Lecturer in Mathematics Education at Monash University and spends a lot of time in primary classrooms working alongside teachers, trying out ideas, tinkering with tasks and games, and exploring how small design choices shape students’ mathematical thinking. James has written extensively for teacher audiences and is a former editor of Australian Primary Mathematics Classroom and Prime Number. He’s known for hands-on, classroom-focused presentations drawn straight from everyday teaching practice.About the Podcaster: Ashleigh SmithAshleigh Smith is an experienced primary educator, former school leader and Co-Founder of Rainbow Sky Creations. With almost 20 years in education, Ashleigh has taught in Australia and internationally in Dubai, UAE. Today, she draws on her classroom and leadership experience to create practical, engaging resources that save teachers time and make learning meaningful and fun. A passionate cheerleader for teachers, Ashleigh is all about helping educators work smarter, not harder. She also co-hosts the Rainbow Skies for Teachers podcast, sharing practical ideas, strategies and encouragement with primary teachers around the world. Connect with her on Instagram or LinkedIn.APPLE PODCAST | SPOTIFY | AMAZONLet's hear from you! Text us!