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Getting the Balance

Stage: 1 Challenge Level: Challenge Level:3 Challenge Level:3 Challenge Level:3

Daniel from Englefield Infant School had a go at this challenge. First he tried 8 and 3 on the left, as the question suggested:

8+3=1+2+8
8+3=1+3+7
8+3=1+4+6
8+3=2+3+6
8+3=2+4+5

I like the way you have written these in a very logical order, Daniel. Well done! Next, Daniel tried 10 and 9 on the left side of the balance:

10+9=1+8+10
10+9=2+7+10
10+9=2+8+9
10+9=3+6+10
10+9=3+7+9
10+9=4+5+10
10+9=4+6+9
10+9=4+7+8
10+9=5+6+8

Fantastic! Izzy from Tonbridge Grammar School reminds us that:

Whatever the sum of numbers of weights on one side add up to has to be equal with the mass of weights on the other.

Thank you to you both.


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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