List

Playing with number

We know it's important for children to play around with numbers, big and small, as this exploration can lead to a deeper realisation of the way the world of numbers fits together.  We've chosen some tasks that are exploratory whilst supporting understanding of the four calculations. 
One Big Triangle
problem

One big triangle

Age
5 to 7
Challenge level
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Make one big triangle so the numbers that touch on the small triangles add to 10.

problem

Noah

Age
5 to 7
Challenge level
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Noah saw 12 legs walk by into the Ark. How many creatures did he see?

problem

Ladybirds in the garden

Age
5 to 7
Challenge level
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In Sam and Jill's garden there are two sorts of ladybirds with 7 spots or 4 spots. What numbers of total spots can you make?

Strike it out
problem

Strike it out

Age
5 to 11
Challenge level
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Use your addition and subtraction skills, combined with some strategic thinking, to beat your partner at this game.

Zios and Zepts
problem

Zios and Zepts

Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
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On the planet Vuv there are two sorts of creatures. The Zios have 3 legs and the Zepts have 7 legs. The great planetary explorer Nico counted 52 legs. How many Zios and how many Zepts were there?

Highest and Lowest
problem

Highest and lowest

Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
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Put operations signs between the numbers 3 4 5 6 to make the highest possible number and lowest possible number.
This Pied Piper of Hamelin
problem

This Pied Piper of Hamelin

Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
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Investigate the different numbers of people and rats there could have been if you know how many legs there are altogether!

Four goodness sake
problem

Four goodness' sake

Age
7 to 11
Challenge level
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Use 4 four times with simple operations so that you get the answer 12. Can you make 15, 16 and 17 too?

What Are Numbers?
article

What are numbers?

Ranging from kindergarten mathematics to the fringe of research this informal article paints the big picture of number in a non technical way suitable for primary teachers and older students.