In Part 2 of our discussion with Dr Ems Lord and Liz Woodham from NRICH and Grace Coker from the EEF, we explore how games can facilitate collaborative problem-solving, encourage parental engagement and make homework more enjoyable.

A transcript (PDF) of this episode is available to download.

Show notes
Taking part in the discussion:

• Ems Lord, Director of NRICH, University of Cambridge


• Liz Woodham, Primary Coordinator, NRICH, University of Cambridge


• Grace Coker, Maths Content Specialist, Education Endowment Foundation (EEF)


• Julia Thomson, Communications Manager, NCETM.

Episode chapters

• 00:05 - Introduction


• 00:59 - Exploring the importance of collaboration in maths


• 03:20 - Introducing maths games: NIM-7 and Got It


• 05:53 - More game suggestions and utilising classroom resources


• 07:51 - Encouraging parental involvement in maths practice


• 10:08 - Solving Together: a homework project for secondary schools


• 16:58 - Opportunities for new learning through games


• 17:56 - Top tips for using games in the classroom


• 19:54 - Conclusion

Useful links

• EEF Improving Mathematics in the Early Years and Key Stage 1


• EEF Working with Parents to Support Children’s Learning


• Making Maths Visual and Tactile by Judy Hornigold (SEN Books, 2016)


• NRICH games mentioned in podcast: Got It and Nim-7


• Number Hive, mentioned by Grace Coker


• NRICH Secondary parental engagement project: Solving Together


• NRICH Primary games


• NRICH Secondary games


• Explore previous episodes of the NCETM podcast in our archive.