Resources by 1001 Math Problems

Same-sum circles

In a diagram with three overlapping circles the numbers 1 to 8 have been placed so that the sum of the numbers in each circle is 12. Can students move the numbers so that the sum in each circle is 13? The resource includes further challenges such as making the largest sums possible and making every sum from 12 up...

Shaded triangles problem

Four equilateral triangles are presented with different patterns shaded. The challenge is to find the triangle which is most fully shaded. To arrive at a solution requires both spatial awareness and use of fractions. This resource is suitable for Key Stages 2 and 3.

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Six toothpicks problem

An equilateral triangle is shown that has been made using three toothpicks. Three further toothpicks are given and the challenge is to find a way of using them to create a total of four equilateral triangles the same size as the first one. This challenge is suitable for Key Stage 3 and ideal to use when teaching...

Spaceship bonds

This resource focuses on addition bonds. Four equilateral triangles are joined in a lattice with a circle at each vertex. The numbers 1 to 8 must be placed in the circles in a way that ensures each triangle has numbers where the larger number is the sum of two smaller numbers. The resource is suitable for Key Stage...

Stacked dice problem

A picture is shown of three dice stacked on top of each other. The sum of the numbers showing is found. The challenge is to find the greatest total that can be displayed using three dice. As an extension, the challenge is posed as to 20 dice. This would be an ideal resource to use when working on 3D shapes using 2D...

Strange symbols

Three addition calculations are shown using symbols instead of numbers. Can students arrange the symbols from smallest to largest? A second puzzle follows with four additions, including one with more than one symbol on each side of the equals sign.

Subtraction snakes

A ‘subtraction snake’ is presented, the rule to find the next number in the snake is to find the difference of the two numbers that come before it. Some questions are posed about starting numbers and end results in work on Highest Common Factors. This resource is suitable for Key Stage 3.

Taxicab geometry

Two friends, Albert and Betty, agree to meet for lunch. Their starting locations and possible meeting point are shown on a grid. Students are asked to explore the best place for the two friends to meet, given certain conditions (e.g. only four blocks away from Albert). There are six challenges to attempt with...

Tetrahedron colouring problem

This puzzle involves spatial reasoning relating to nets. Some nets of a tetrahedron are shown with different arrangements of colours. The challenge is to determine which one results in a different arrangement of colours when folded. This resource is suitable for Key Stage 3.

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