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
Favourite
What's in a name?
What do you notice about these squares of numbers? What is the same? What is different?
problem
Unexpected ordering
Watch the video of Fran re-ordering these number cards. What do you notice? Try it for yourself. What happens?
problem
Favourite
Digit addition
Try out this number trick. What happens with different starting numbers? What do you notice?
problem
Favourite
Your number is...
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
Does this 'trick' for calculating multiples of 11 always work? Why or why not?
problem
Favourite
The number jumbler
The Number Jumbler can always work out your chosen symbol. Can you work out how?
problem
Truth or lie
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.