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:
See Also
Botania - FAQThis Math Problem for Five-Year-Olds Has the Internet StumpedMaximising Flower Production | Flower PowerRose Petal Quantity Calculator
See Also
Mystical FlowersCan 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
Categories: Elementary
