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 windmill puzzle is to place the numbers from 1-9 in the circles, so that each coloured triangle adds up to the same total:
Can you place the numbers 1-9 into the circles so that each of the coloured triangles adds to 15?
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 digits add to 15? Which have you tried?
Extensions & Adaptations:
- If you’re feeling stuck, focus on trying different numbers in the middle triangle – those digits are 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: Don Steward Blog
Categories: Elementary