The Alphabet Key
The Alphabet Key is one of Tony Ryan’s Thinker’s Keys, a collection of 20 creative thinking strategies designed to stretch students beyond surface-level responses.
How to Play
Choose a maths topic you’re focusing on, for example: fractions, geometry, statistics, or 2D shapes. Working in pairs or small groups, students brainstorm a maths word or idea to match each letter of the alphabet.For example, if the topic is 'Fractions', “N” might be numerator, “D” could be denominator, and “E” might be equivalent fractions.
Students don't have to do the entire alphabet, even half-set can kick off lively discussion!
More Examples:
Angles
A = Acute, O = Obtuse, P = Protractor, R = Ray
Statistics
A = Average, D = Data, M = Median, Mean, Mode, P = Pie graph
2D Shapes
C = Circle, E = Equilateral triangle, Q = Quadrilateral
Why It’s So Good
- Sparks prior knowledge and is perfect for the beginning of a unit
- Improves mathematical vocabulary through recall and use of key terms
- Encourages students to connect different maths concepts
- Works with any maths topic, including fractions, geometry, statistics, or algebra
- An engaging way quickly highlights what students understand and what needs extra support
The Alphabet makes maths fun and hands-on. Students explore concepts, practise vocabulary, and make connections. Try this low-prep maths activity get your students excited about maths!
