Number Differences

Why do this problem?

This problem encourages pupils to form early stages of proof by using their knowledge of odd and even numbers to construct mathematical arguments, leading to generalisation.

Possible approach

Ideally, this activity should follow on from Ring A Ring of Numbers and More Numbers in the Ring so that minimal introduction will be needed.  However, if learners have not worked on the previous two tasks, you could show them the square filled with numbers (in whatever way you like) and ask them to talk to a neighbour about what they see.  Sharing children's observations is likely to bring up odd and even numbers so that you can offer the challenge as it is written.

Give pairs time to work on the activity and draw the whole group together when appropriate to share any insights.  If not using the interactivity, it may be useful for children to have a sheet of blank grids in order to try out their ideas.  Digit cards would also be handy.

You might like to invite children to find more than one way of arranging the digits for odd differences.  When it comes to the challenge of arranging the digits so that the difference between joined numbers is even, look out for those children who have a hunch it is impossible.  Encourage them to articulate why they think it cannot be solved.  You may find that a whole-group discussion is a fruitful way of coming to a good explanation. 

Key questions

What have you tried so far?
Are there any other ways to do it?
How do you know this is impossible?  Perhaps we just haven't found the one way that works?

Possible extension

You can assess children's understanding of the situation by giving them a new set of numbers to arrange.  For example, what would happen with 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10?  Are there any sets of numbers that would make both parts of the problem possible?  This will encourage them to generalise the situation beyond numbers 1 to 9. 
Alternatively, you may like to probe children's understanding of the way odd and even numbers behave.  How do they know that two odd numbers will always have an even difference?  Can they convince you that it will always be the case?  They may well be able to create pictures that form a proof.

Possible support

Many children will find it beneficial to work on Ring A Ring of Numbers and More Numbers in the Ring before tackling this problem.