Visualising and representing

problem
Little boxes

Age

7 to 11

Challenge level

How many different cuboids can you make when you use four CDs or DVDs? How about using five, then six?
problem
Matchsticks

Age

7 to 11

Challenge level

Reasoning about the number of matches needed to build squares that share their sides.
problem
Construct-o-straws

Age

7 to 11

Challenge level

Make a cube out of straws and have a go at this practical challenge.
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NRICH starter problem selection

On this page we give a selection of good starter activities for those new to NRICH
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Problem solving, using and applying and functional mathematics

Problem solving is at the heart of the NRICH site. All the problems give learners opportunities to learn, develop or use mathematical concepts and skills. Read here for more information.
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Making maths: rolypoly

Paint a stripe on a cardboard roll. Can you predict what will happen when it is rolled across a sheet of paper?
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Folding, cutting and punching

Exploring and predicting folding, cutting and punching holes and making spirals.
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Children's mathematical graphics: understanding the key concept

In this article for teachers, Elizabeth Carruthers and Maulfry Worthington explore the differences between 'recording mathematics' and 'representing mathematical thinking'.
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Thinking through, and by, visualising

This article is based on some of the ideas that emerged during the production of a book which takes visualising as its focus. We began to identify problems which helped us to take a structured view of the purposes and skills of visualising.
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Children's mathematical writing

Bernard Bagnall discusses the importance of valuing young children's mathematical representations in this article for teachers.