Problem Solving Prompts

Learning Goals:

  • Solve problems involving the addition of multi-digit whole numbers
  • Develop and apply reasoning skills to make and test math predictions
  • Communicate mathematical thinking orally and visually

The Challenge:

You will be using the digits 1 to 9 exactly one time each.
Place a digit in each box to make the sum as close to 1000 as possible.

Rearranging digits many times and making multiple attempts is the key to solving this puzzle!

Questions and Prompts to Support your Child:

  • How did you get started?
  • What have you noticed? What have you tried so far? What could we try together?
  • Did you feel stuck at any point? What did you do?
  • How do you know you can’t get any closer to 1000?
  • What should be true about the hundreds places of your three numbers?
  • How do the tens places affect your answer?

Extensions & Adaptations: