The worksheet "Practicing Math Terms: Math Crossword Puzzle" invites students to solidify their knowledge of math terms and practice solving word problems in a fun crossword-style format.

Each puzzle features numbered problems for students to solve under "across" and "down" headings, as you would expect with a regular crossword. Many problems are written out instead of just displaying standard math problems, so students have to use their critical thinking skills to find the answers. For example, one problem is "Two times 18-Across," while another is "The thousands in 12-Down." Problems also spell out numbers, so students have to read them. Some ask questions about factors, and some even ask about money, like how many nickels are in a dollar.

No answer is included in the crossword to help them get started. Instead, the first problem they should start with is bolded. Then, they can begin going down the list and solving the other problems.

Math crosswords are an effective way to engage students when they start to lose interest in solving math problems on traditional worksheets. They also give you the ability to create clues that encourage students to explore important math terms.

For example, you could include regular math problems like "8+14." Students would fill in the answer in the correct box according to the number of the problem and whether the answer goes across or down. But you can also practice common math terms and concepts. For example, one problem could ask students to find an answer that's five more than another answer, reinforcing addition terminology without using the operational sign. You could also ask about the digit's place value or the difference between two other answers.

It's a great extra credit or early finisher activity. This type of puzzle can also be fun for students to work on in pairs, or you can complete it as a class, passing it around the room and asking every student to fill in one answer.