Reasoning, convincing and proving

  • The Converse of Pythagoras
    problem

    The converse of Pythagoras

    Age
    14 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Can you prove that triangles are right-angled when $a^2+b^2=c^2$?

  • Circumference angles
    problem

    Circumference angles

    Age
    11 to 16
    Challenge level
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    Can you prove the angle properties described by some of the circle theorems?

  • Pythagoras Proofs
    problem

    Pythagoras proofs

    Age
    11 to 16
    Challenge level
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    Can you make sense of these three proofs of Pythagoras' Theorem?

  • Cyclic Quadrilaterals Proof
    problem

    Cyclic quadrilaterals proof

    Age
    11 to 16
    Challenge level
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    Can you prove that the opposite angles of cyclic quadrilaterals add to $180^\circ$?

  • Mathdoku
    problem

    Mathdoku

    Age
    7 to 11
    Challenge level
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    Complete the Mathdoku grid using the clues. Can you convince us that the number you have chosen for each square has to be correct?
  • An Easy Way to Multiply by 10?
    problem

    An easy way to multiply by 10?

    Age
    7 to 11
    Challenge level
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    Do you agree with Badger's statements? Is Badger's reasoning 'watertight'? Why or why not?

  • Unravelling Sequences
    problem

    Unravelling sequences

    Age
    7 to 11
    Challenge level
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    Can you describe what is happening as this program runs? Can you unpick the steps in the process?
  • Why dialogue matters in primary proof
    article

    Why dialogue matters in primary proof

    In this article for Primary teachers, Ems explores three essential features of proof, all of which can be developed in the context of primary mathematics through talk.
  • Adding odd numbers (part 2)
    problem

    Adding odd numbers (part 2)

    Age
    16 to 18
    Challenge level
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    Can you use Proof by Induction to establish what will happen when you add more and more odd numbers?

  • Difference of odd squares
    problem

    Difference of odd squares

    Age
    14 to 18
    Challenge level
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    $40$ can be written as $7^2 - 3^2.$ Which other numbers can be written as the difference of squares of odd numbers?