List

Using Wonder to Promote Curiosity

As teachers, we often like to share something spectacular with students in order to get a "wow". However, rather than a punchline, this could be the starting point for students to explore and explain, helping them to realise the power of mathematics as a tool to make sense of the world.

 

Your number is...
problem
Favourite

Your number is...

Age
7 to 14
Challenge level
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Think of a number and follow the machine's instructions... I know what your number is! Can you explain how I know?
The Number Jumbler
problem
Favourite

The Number Jumbler

Age
7 to 14
Challenge level
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The Number Jumbler can always work out your chosen symbol. Can you work out how?
Your number was...
problem
Favourite

Your number was...

Age
11 to 14
Challenge level
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Think of a number and follow my instructions. Tell me your answer, and I'll tell you what you started with! Can you explain how I know?
Twisting and Turning
problem
Favourite

Twisting and Turning

Age
11 to 14
Challenge level
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Take a look at the video and try to find a sequence of moves that will untangle the ropes.
More Twisting and Turning
problem
Favourite

More Twisting and Turning

Age
11 to 16
Challenge level
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It would be nice to have a strategy for disentangling any tangled ropes...
All tangled up
problem

All tangled up

Age
14 to 18
Challenge level
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Can you tangle yourself up and reach any fraction?