Free, Fun, and Still Rigorous: End-of-Year Math Activities That Just Work
What if your last few weeks of class could be fun, focused, and totally free? 🙌 If that sounds like exactly what you need, you’re in the right place. As we slide into summer, it can be tough to keep students engaged—especially in high school math. But don’t worry: I’ve got you covered with three of my absolute favorite free math activities for high school that are hands-on, low-prep, and still rigorous.
In this post (and the latest podcast episode!), I’m breaking down each activity, sharing classroom tips, and showing you how to make the most of May—without burning yourself out.
👉 Watch here: Watch On YouTube
🎧 Listen here: In your Favorite Podcast App
Why End-of-Year Freebies Matter
By the time May hits, energy is low and distractions are high. But that doesn’t mean learning has to stop! The key is finding activities that are:
✔️ Engaging
✔️ Meaningful
✔️ Low-prep
✔️ (And let’s be honest—FREE is a huge bonus!)
These three activities check every box—and they’re classroom-tested with Algebra 1 and Algebra 2 students.
1️⃣ Paper Airplane Math Freebie
This one blends just enough chaos with solid math review. Here’s how it works:
- Students design three different paper airplanes ✈️
- They test each by flying them across the room or hallway
- They collect flight data and graph linear + quadratic equations to model the launches
It covers:
- Writing and interpreting linear functions
- Identifying quadratic curves
- Comparing equations based on plane design
Run it as a class challenge, a station, or even a quiet sub plan (yes, really!).
👉 Grab it free here: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Algebra-2-Graphing-Activity-Linear-Quadratic-Equations-with-Paper-Airplanes-11818600
2️⃣ Mini Paper Rocket Activity
Perfect for quadratic graphing review, this one is a bite-sized version of my popular Rocket Project. All you need: paper, a straw, and tape. 🚀 Students:
- Build and launch mini rockets
- Graph height vs. time
- Identify key features like vertex, intercepts, and max height
It’s simple, hands-on, and sneakily rigorous.
👉 Download it free here: https://moorethanjustx.myflodesk.com/rocketmini
3️⃣ Stained Glass Mini Project
This creative task helps students review slope and linear equations while making something beautiful. 🎨 Students:
- Graph lines using provided equations + coordinate clues
- Color in spaces to complete a stained glass design
It’s calming, visual, and reinforces:
- Positive/negative slopes
- Precision in graphing
Perfect as a sub plan or a Friday “reset” activity.
👉 Grab it free here: https://moorethanjustx.myflodesk.com/stainedglass
Creative Ways to Use These Activities
Want to stretch these freebies even further? Try:
- 🔄 Station Rotation: Set up all 3 as stations for a full review day.
- 🗂️ Sub Folder: Keep them prepped for an easy, math-rich sub day.
- ✅ Independent Choice: Let students pick one and present their work.
- 🎯 Last Week Plan: Mix + match for those “we’re still in school but done with new content” days.
Final Thoughts
Your end-of-year math activities don’t have to be boring—or break the bank. These free math activities for high school are proof that you can keep things rigorous and fun right through the final bell.
👉 Grab all 3 freebies now
➡ Paper Airplane Math: Download Now
➡ Mini Rocket Launch: Download Now
➡ Stained Glass Mini: Download Now
Let me know how you use them! Tag me on Instagram or drop a note in our Facebook group to share your wins.
Keep your sanity, keep your change, and as always—keep it real.
