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This problem demonstrates the power of the 100 square in helping pupils to recognise number properties and in beginning to reason carefully. The latter, at this level, can be considered as a form of proof. It also gives an opportunity for some to use an intuitive form of algebra.
With all the children together looking at a large display of a 100 square and then choosing the 2, 3, 12, 13 square (without the multiplying arrows) and sharing all the observations that the pupils make. Some of these may be at a simple straightforward level; "the units of the ones above are the same", "the total is 30".
When many observations have been made the idea of multiplying opposite corners could be suggested - if it has not already occurred.
This is now beginning to move into slightly harder realms and it may (according to the abilities of the pupils) be a good time to give out copies of the activity.
If pupils have, in the introduction given a total for the four numbers it would be good to ask them how they added up the four numbers.
When the pupils are working on the activity it would be good to ask what they are noticing.
It may be appropriate to ask the to explain further how they know the things they have observed.
Ask for a proof that their observations will always happen?
Can they predict what to do for a 6 by 6 square?
Thank you to Mark Burdass, a teacher at Harlands Primary School in Haywards Heath, who suggested the following further extension tasks:
The printable version of the 100 square might be useful for children to try out a variety of diagonal sums.
Choose two digits and arrange them to make two double-digit numbers. Now add your double-digit numbers. Now add your single digit numbers. Divide your double-digit answer by your single-digit answer. Try lots of examples. What happens? Can you explain it?
What do the digits in the number fifteen add up to? How many other numbers have digits with the same total but no zeros?