As teachers, we often like to share something spectacular with learners in order to get a "wow". However, rather than a punchline, the tricks in this feature will capture children's curiosity, motivating them to explore and explain, and helping them to realise that mathematics is the tool they need to make sense of the world.
problem
What's in a name?
Age
5 to 7
Challenge level
What do you notice about these squares of numbers? What is the same? What is different?
problem
Unexpected ordering
Age
5 to 7
Challenge level
Watch the video of Fran re-ordering these number cards. What do you notice? Try it for yourself. What happens?
problem
Digit addition
Age
5 to 11
Challenge level
Try out this number trick. What happens with different starting numbers? What do you notice?
problem
Your number is...
Age
7 to 14
Challenge level
Think of a number and follow the machine's instructions... I know what your number is! Can you explain how I know?
problem
Surprising split
Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
Does this 'trick' for calculating multiples of 11 always work? Why or why not?
problem
The Number Jumbler
Age
7 to 14
Challenge level
The Number Jumbler can always work out your chosen symbol. Can you work out how?
problem
Truth or lie
Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
Take a look at the video of this trick. Can you perform it yourself? Why is this maths and not magic?
list
Intriguing interactivities
This feature for primary teachers brings together tasks with interactivities to stimulate learners' curiosity.
