The Hands-On Math Review That’s Saving My Math Block
Let’s be honest:
By the time math review rolls around, it’s not just the students who are dragging their feet. I’ve done the games. I’ve printed the packets. I’ve begged them to focus just one more time on rounding to the nearest ten.
But this year, I tried something new – something that hit that sweet spot between fun and meaningful practice.
It’s called a math cube, and it completely changed the tone of my review block.
CLICK HERE for Free Math Cube!
What Is a Math Cube?
A math cube is a printable, hands-on math review where each side of the cube features a math task. Students solve the problems, color their answers, and then assemble the six sides into a 3D cube.
It’s math. It’s creative. And it turns a standard review session into something students are excited about.
They get to:
- Solve real grade-level problems
- Color based on their answers
- Fold and glue their way to a finished product they can hold and even display
And the best part?
It doesn’t feel like a worksheet. But it is still standards-based.
Why Students Love This Math Review
Let’s face it, worksheets are predictable. And while predictability has its place, sometimes you just need something fresh.
Here’s what makes math cubes different:
- They’re interactive. Students are moving, coloring, building—not just bubbling in answers.
- They feel personal. Many of the cubes include spaces for students to add their name or favorite number to a jersey, which makes it feel like theirs.
- They lead to pride. When students finish, they have a tangible product they’re proud to show off or take home.
- They’re just the right level of challenge. These aren’t fluff problems. They’re targeted, grade-specific, and purposeful.
More than once, I’ve heard a student say,
“Can we do another one of these tomorrow?”
That’s not something I hear after test prep packets.
Why Teachers Love It
The prep work is done for you! Just print and go and create these really awesome cubes.
Easy Ways to Use Math Cubes in Your Classroom
Here’s how I’ve worked them into my math review routine (and how you can too):
- Centers: Place the cube pieces at one station during review week.
- Early Finishers: Keep a few printed and ready to go—students love jumping into them when they finish their regular work.
- Bulletin Boards: Once they’re assembled, the cubes make the cutest classroom display.
- Sub Plans: Low prep, high engagement. Enough said.
- End-of-Unit Review: One cube covers a key skill—perfect as a final check or spiral review.
Try It for Free: Sports-Themed Math Cubes (Grades 2–7)
To help you try this with your students, I’ve put together a free sampler set of mini math cubes—one for each grade from 2nd to 7th. Each cube is tied to a key standard and comes in a fun, sports theme.
Here’s the topic for each grade level:
- 2nd Grade: Add & subtract within 100
- 3rd Grade: Multiplication facts
- 4th Grade: Multiplication review
- 5th Grade: Whole number operations
- 6th Grade: Ratios and rates
- 7th Grade: Integer operations
They’re engaging, low-prep, and ready to print.
The Bigger Picture: A Full Year of Math Cubes
If you try the sampler and love it (and my guess is, your students will), there’s a full bundle that builds on this format—targeting all the major skills throughout the year for each grade level.
You get:
- A consistent, creative activity format
- Monthly cubes that align with seasonal themes and standards
- Something that makes students want to review
Math cubes have become a go-to for me—and not just during test prep season. They’re the kind of flexible resource that fits almost anywhere in your block.
Action Steps:
- Want ready-to-use math activities like these delivered each month? Check out The Kupe Collection—monthly math drops packed with creative, classroom-ready resources for grades 4–6.
- Check out all the creative math resources at count on kupe on TPT
