Integrating Fractions into Physical Education classes can improve Mathematical Performance in 11–13-Year-Olds - The Basketball Mathematics project

Abstract

Mathematical literacy, especially understanding fractions, predicts children’s academic success. Physical activity benefits cognitive and academic performance and integrating movement into mathematics education may enhance learning. This study examined whether a play-based basketball mathematics intervention improves children’s understanding of fractions. A secondary aim was to explore whether the approach enhances intrinsic motivation by fostering experiences of autonomy and competence. A school-based intervention study including 309 Norwegian children in grades 6–7 across two school years. The study combined cluster-randomized allocation with a quasi-experimental component due to COVID-related deviations from the original allocation procedure. Participants were assigned to one of three groups: a basketball-mathematics intervention (BM), an active control with basketball only (bCON), or a control with standard PE lessons (peCON). The intervention lasted eight weeks with one weekly 60-minute session. Pre- and post-tests assessed mathematical performance, basketball skills, and motivation using standardized assessments and validated questionnaires. The BM group showed significantly greater improvements than controls in both fraction (Group × Time: p