Mathematicians aren't usually satisfied with looking at a few examples and spotting patterns. That is just the start! They will form conjectures based on their noticings and they will want to know whether their conjectures are always true. The tasks in this feature give you the chance to identify patterns, make conjectures and then create mathematical arguments that will be convincing to mathematicians!
You may also like to take a look at our Shape Your Proof feature which gives you tasks for a similar purpose but in the context of number.
Even and Odd Age 5 to 7
Challenge Level
Challenge Level
This activity is best done with a whole class or in a large group. Can you match the cards? What happens when you add pairs of the numbers together?
Two Numbers Under the Microscope Age 5 to 7
Challenge Level
Challenge Level
This investigates one particular property of number by looking closely at an example of adding two odd numbers together.
Next-door Numbers Age 5 to 7
Challenge Level
Challenge Level
Florence, Ethan and Alma have each added together two 'next-door' numbers. What is the same about their answers?
Strike it Out Age 5 to 11
Challenge Level
Challenge Level
Use your addition and subtraction skills, combined with some strategic thinking, to beat your partner at this game.
Unravelling Sequences Age 7 to 11
Challenge Level
Challenge Level
Can you describe what is happening as this program runs? Can you unpick the steps in the process?
An Easy Way to Multiply by 10? Age 7 to 11
Challenge Level
Challenge Level
Do you agree with Badger's statements? Is Badger's reasoning 'watertight'? Why or why not?
Take Three Numbers Age 7 to 11
Challenge Level
Challenge Level
What happens when you add three numbers together? Will your answer be odd or even? How do you know?
Neighbourly Addition Age 7 to 14
Challenge Level
Challenge Level
I added together some of my neighbours' house numbers. Can you explain the patterns I noticed?
Three Neighbours Age 7 to 14
Challenge Level
Challenge Level
Take three consecutive numbers and add them together. What do you notice?
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NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.
NRICH is part of the family of activities in the Millennium Mathematics Project.