Line Up (patterns, logic)

Line Up (patterns, logic)

Line Up (MathPickle, 2022) Lining Up is a puzzle that playfully explores partitions and proximity. If you want to see it played with kids go here.  The key to teaching the puzzle well is to look for symmetry and patterns. After you play it in a line – try it...
Categorizing Bad Rulers (subtraction, combinations)

Categorizing Bad Rulers (subtraction, combinations)

Categorizing Bad Rulers (MathPickle, 2021) Our factory is a bit lazy. When making a ruler we only make some of the notches. Such a ruler is either BAD or TERRIBLE. Is the ruler with notches at 0-2-5-7 BAD or TERRIBLE? With BAD rulers, choosing any two marks gives a...
Animal Digits (addition, algebra)

Animal Digits (addition, algebra)

Animal Digits / Digit Sums (Julia Robinson Mathematics Festival, 2020) The number in each circle is the sum of the digits in all connected circles. Play around with your class – making simple patterns of connected circles and then trying to put numbers in them...
Squirrel Nutkin (counting, patterns)

Squirrel Nutkin (counting, patterns)

Squirrel Nutkin (Richard Guy et al., The Inquisitive Problem Solver, 2002) The theme is chosen from one of Beatrix Potter’s animals. I grew up with these stories in Belfast so I’m pleased to have found the perfect mathematical home for Squirrel Nutkin. 😉...