Crossword puzzle as one of the effective means of increasing student motivation at a mathematics lesson

Abstract

In order to make learning fun and interesting, the teacher should use different strategies during the lesson. Changes
are systematically taking place in the general education system aimed at improving the educational process and results. For
this very purpose, many activities and tools have been used over the years to find innovative methods and tools. In this
process, the mutual exchange of teachers' experiences is rather valuable, which will help establish interesting and effective
approaches to teaching. As one of the innovative activities, we present to you the creation of mathematical crossword puzzles
and their use by integrating them with various school subjects. Crosswords, as an interactive learning tool (instrument), can be
successfully used in the educational and training process of a school mathematics course. By composing crossword puzzles,
students develop creative, critical thinking and social skills, which are very important for their socialization and further
development. In addition, compiling and completing mathematical crosswords not only confirms and deepens knowledge in
this subject, but also helps to integrate interdisciplinary connections with mathematics, since students receive interesting
information from different school subjects (geography, history, biology, chemistry and others). Such activities make the lesson
interesting and productive by increasing motivation and interest, increase student involvement in the process, and also allow
the teacher to conduct formative assessment.