The State Testing Struggle is Real
Let’s be honest—state test season can feel like a lot. The pressure is on, your students are tired, and if you see one more review packet, you might scream.
That’s why I’m always on the hunt for math review games for state testing that actually engage students. Games that feel more like fun and less like pressure. Because when review becomes a chore, everyone tunes out—and when students feel empowered and involved, they retain more.
In this post, I’m sharing five of my favorite engaging math review activities that feel more like play than prep—but still align to the standards. Whether you’re prepping for the Georgia Milestones, STAAR, or another state exam, these ideas will help keep your classroom motivated and focused.
Looking for a simple way to encourage your students during state testing season? Download a free set of Motivational Testing Notes you can print and use during review week or on testing days.
These notes are a thoughtful way to show students you believe in them—without adding more to your plate.
Why Use Math Review Games for State Testing?
- Before we jump into the games, it’s worth considering why review games are effective.
Students benefit from repetition with variety - Review doesn’t have to feel like punishment
- Games promote engagement, collaboration, and confidence
- You don’t need hours of prep to make it meaningful
If you’re looking to make the most of your time and boost student confidence, these strategies are for you.
Game 1: Matho (aka Math Bingo)
What it is:
A spin on traditional Bingo, Matho uses math problems as the prompts and answers as the board content.
How to prepare:
- Create a Bingo-style card with 25 answers (or use a free online generator).
- Prepare a list of math questions aligned to your current review topics.
- Call out the problems one at a time. Students solve and mark the correct answer on their board.
Why it works:
- It’s adaptable to every skill set.
- Easy to differentiate by adjusting question types.
- Students stay actively engaged and self-check as they go.
Pro Tip: Create different levels of difficulty across your boards or have students pair up to support peer learning.
Game 2: Math Jeopardy
What it is:
A competitive, game-show style review that lets students choose questions from various categories and point values.
How to play:
Split your class into teams.
Let teams choose a category and point value.
Display the question. Teams must solve it within a set time and explain their reasoning.
Why it works:
Encourages strategic thinking and team discussion.
Ideal for reviewing multiple topics in one session.
Makes review feel fun and fast-paced.
Pro Tip: Offer bonus points for clear explanations or for showing multiple strategies.
Game 3: Pixel Art Review Activities
What it is:
Self-checking digital activities where students solve math problems and watch a mystery picture reveal as they get answers correct. Many include printable recording sheets so students can show their work as they complete each task.
How to prepare:
Choose the standard(s) you want to review.
Assign a pixel art activity using Google Sheets or Google Classroom.
Print and distribute the recording sheet, or upload it as a digital companion.
Provide a quick model of how to enter answers and track progress.
Why it works:
It’s highly engaging and self-paced.
Students get instant feedback, which supports independent learning.
No grading needed—the sheet checks for you.
Pro Tip: Use these for morning work, centers, sub days, or as a Friday review.
If you’re looking for an easy, effective way to make test prep feel like fun, check out my End-of-Year Pixel Art Review Bundle for Grades 3-5. It includes standards-based digital activities that your students will love—and you can assign in minutes.
Click to grab your End of Year Pixel Art Review for 3rd-5th grade
Game 4: Math Jenga
What it is:
A twist on the classic game Jenga, where each block represents a math problem.
How to prepare:
Color code blocks using stickers or markers.
Assign a math skill to each color.
Create a question bank for each color group.
Why it works:
It’s interactive and hands-on.
Supports movement and attention.
Easy to differentiate based on color category or question difficulty.
Pro Tip: Keep a printed set of questions at each table and encourage students to explain their reasoning before placing their block.
Game 5: Digital Review Games
What it is:
Game-based learning platforms that make review feel like play while offering real-time feedback.
Top Tools:
Kahoot
Blooket
Quizizz
Gimkit
How to prepare:
- Choose a game platform and create a quiz using standards-based questions.
- Assign it as a live game (whole group) or practice mode (independent).
Why it works:
Built-in data helps identify which skills need more support.
Students enjoy the variety and interactivity.
Most platforms allow for team play, individual practice, or homework options.
Pro Tip: Let students create their own review questions and submit them for a class-made game.
Let the Games Begin—Without the Extra Prep
If you’re looking for review that’s low prep but high impact, I’ve got you covered. My self-checking pixel art activities are digital, standards-aligned, and designed to make your life easier during test prep season.
They’re engaging for students and easy to implement for teachers, making them a perfect fit for review centers, whole-group activities, or independent work time.
These math review games for state testing can help you bring energy, structure, and confidence into your classroom without sacrificing instructional quality or classroom management.
When students enjoy review, they participate more. When they feel prepared, they perform better. These games allow you to target standards, boost retention, and make review feel like something students actually want to do.
Which game will you try first? Share your favorite review strategies in the comments or send me a message on Instagram @theartoffunology.
Don’t Forget: Motivational Testing Notes
Your students are working hard. Let them know you see it. Download a free set of Motivational Testing Notes to use before or during testing days. They’re simple, meaningful, and take less than five minutes to prep.
