Puzzles and Riddles

Learning Goals:

  • Determine the missing numbers in equations
  • Develop and apply reasoning skills to make and test math predictions

The Exploration:

The goal of a flower petal puzzle is to place the numbers from 1-9 in the circles (“petals”), so that each line of 3 petals adds up to the target total:

A circle surrounded by eight identical, equally spaced circles in a circle. The numbers 1 through 9 are underneath in a row.

Can you place the numbers 1-9 into the circles so that each line of 3 petals adds to 12?
What about a target total of 15 for each line of petals? A target total of 18?

This digital version is a great way to play, or simply jot it down on a piece of paper!

Questions and Prompts to Support your Child:

  • What have you tried so far? What could we try together?
  • If that arrangement of numbers didn’t work out, what could you try instead?
  • What combinations of three numbers add to 12? Which have you tried?

Extensions & Adaptations:

  • If you’re feeling stuck, focus on trying different numbers in the middle circle – that spot is more important than the rest
  • What other target totals are possible? What target totals are impossible? You could try using a different set of digits for in the spaces, or try using a number more than once. How do these changes affect the puzzle?

Source: Mathforlove.com