Excel Interactive Resource: Make a Copy

Stage: 3 and 4 Challenge Level: Challenge Level:2 Challenge Level:2
Make a Copy 1
The objective in this type of puzzle is to work out the factors in the top row and left hand column.
The increment buttons (spinners) in each of these spaces, allow experimentation and feedback.

Click here to get the Excel file Make a Copy.

In Make a Copy 2 less information is provided. Can this puzzle be solved?
Make a Copy 2
Extend your thinking with some investigative activity:
What is the minimum number of values that must be provided if the puzzle is to have a unique solution?
Does the position of these values matter?
Are the answers to these questions different when any of the given values have more than two prime factors?
14 can be expressed as a product of only two prime factors: 2 x 7.
12 has prime factors: 2 x 2 x 3.

Make up similar puzzles with different size, or different shape, grids.
Try more interesting functions than simple multiplication.
The NRICH Project aims to enrich the mathematical experiences of all learners. To support this aim, members of the NRICH team work in a wide range of capacities, including providing professional development for teachers wishing to embed rich mathematical tasks into everyday classroom practice. More information on many of our other activities can be found here.
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