Problem Solving Prompts

Learning Goals:

  • Solve problems involving the multiplication 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 4 at most one time each.
Place a digit in each box to make the largest possible product (answer.)

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 have found the largest possible answer?
  • Where did you put your largest digit? Your smallest digit?
  • What would this equation look like as an array?

Extensions & Adaptations:

  • Try out some more “Open Middle” problems at www.openmiddle.com
  • What would change if you could use the digits from 1-9?
  • What would change if you had an extra blank in the second number (a 2-digit by 2-digit multiplication equation)?

Source: Robert Kaplinsky OpenMiddle.com